Specimen Processing Supervisor

UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Renton, WA is seeking a Specimen Processing Supervisor for the Microbiology Lab at the Renton Central Lab.

About the role

The Microbiology Specimen Processing Supervisor oversees and coordinates operations within the Microbiology Pre-analytical Processing section, focusing on microbiology workflows. This role ensures accurate and timely specimen accessioning, handling, processing, and distribution for microbiological testing, including culture setup, Gram stains, and molecular diagnostics. The supervisor also oversees automated microbiology instrumentation such as the WASP (Walk-Away Specimen Processor), automated plate streaking platforms, total laboratory automation (TLA) systems, smart incubators, and digital imaging platforms. Additionally, this position manages environmental and equipment monitoring systems like TempTrak to ensure compliance with temperature and environmental standards for incubators, refrigerators, and freezers.

The supervisor is responsible for staff oversight, including hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, evaluations, and performance management. Collaborating with the microbiology manager, MLS leads, and other laboratory staff, this role supports operational efficiency, quality outcomes, and organizational goals while ensuring compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate pre-analytical operations with emphasis on microbiology specimen accessioning, processing, and workflow.
• Oversee all CLT functions related to specimen handling and processing.
• Oversee operation, monitor, and maintain automated microbiology systems, including WASP, automated streakers, smart incubators, and digital imaging systems.
• Delegate and perform routine and preventive maintenance, calibration checks, and quality control for microbiology instrumentation.
• Troubleshoot instrument errors, document issues, and coordinate vendor support and service calls as needed.
• Oversee environmental monitoring systems such as TempTrak, including temperature tracking for incubators, refrigerators, freezers, and ambient storage areas.
• Respond to temperature excursions and alarms, perform required documentation, and initiate corrective actions in accordance with policy.
• Ensure proper specimen processing for microbiology testing, including appropriate media selection, labeling, incubation setup, and routing.
• Train and ensure staff competency in microbiology processing workflows, automation platforms, and monitoring systems.
• Assign, delegate, schedule, and oversee staff workload to support a 24/7 SPS operation.
• Conduct employee performance evaluations and address performance issues, including corrective actions.
• Responsible for recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and ongoing staff development.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards, including CLIA, CAP, Joint Commission, and Department of Health.
• Monitor quality indicators and utilize systems (e.g., HC1, incident reporting tools) to identify and resolve errors or workflow issues.
• Collaborate with microbiology and other laboratory sections to improve turnaround times and service quality.
• Oversee inventory management for supplies, including culture media, reagents, and consumables.
• Ensure completion of equipment maintenance and proper documentation.
• Participate in inspections, audits, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Assist with budget preparation and cost analysis for equipment and operations.
• Utilize LIS and other software systems for data management, reporting, and workflow tracking.
• Communicate regularly with staff and hospital departments to resolve operational issues.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Two years of college-level science in an applicable field AND one year of experience as a Specimen Processing Technician Lead
• OR High School graduation or GED certification AND two years of clinical laboratory experience in a Clinical or Public Health Laboratory
• OR equivalent education/experience

Qualifications

• Experience in a major medical hospital laboratory
• Experience with laboratory information system
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing

Benefits

• Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region
• Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options
• Free fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U

Schedule

100% FTE, Evening PM/Night Shift. Work schedule to be discussed with the hiring manager.

About the Department

The Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine is a regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research, and educational programs. It combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, the department serves labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.

About UW Medicine

UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. Its mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists, and other health professionals. UW Medicine’s employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion, creating a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student, and colleague is valued and honored.