Senior Laboratory Quality Specialist at Sanford Health - Rapid City, SD

Role Overview

Sanford Health is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Laboratory Quality Specialist to join our team in Rapid City, South Dakota. This critical role will be responsible for providing leadership in quality systems, ensuring the delivery of exceptional laboratory services in alignment with Sanford's mission, vision, and strategic objectives. The Senior Laboratory Quality Specialist will develop and maintain the Sanford Medical Laboratory Quality program, overseeing laboratory safety training and education for all laboratory staff members. This position requires a strong understanding of laboratory operations, healthcare regulations, and quality management principles.

A Day in the Life

As a Senior Laboratory Quality Specialist, your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

• Leading and managing quality systems to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and accreditation requirements.
• Developing, implementing, and maintaining the Sanford Medical Laboratory Quality program.
• Coordinating laboratory safety training and education programs for all laboratory personnel.
• Providing quality oversight for hospital and clinical laboratories across multiple locations.
• Collaborating with leaders from various departments on quality assurance and process improvement initiatives.
• Reviewing and updating laboratory techniques, procedures, and protocols.
• Participating in validation and verification activities for new laboratory methods and equipment.
• Developing, writing, reviewing, and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Utilizing statistical analysis to measure the effectiveness of quality program elements.
• Assisting laboratory leadership in preparing for inspections by accrediting agencies such as CAP, CLIA, COLA, AABB, and The Joint Commission.
• Acting as a CLIA-designated role, such as Qualified Laboratory Director, Technical Supervisor, or Technical Consultant, as needed.
• Collaborating with enterprise laboratory committees to drive standardized process improvement initiatives.
• Participating actively in task forces, committees, and staff meetings to support departmental goals and organizational strategies.
• Analyzing performance assessment results and recommending process improvements.
• Implementing established performance improvement policies and providing training to employees.
• Traveling to various laboratory sites to provide support and oversight, as required by leadership.

Why Rapid City, South Dakota?

Rapid City, South Dakota, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Nestled in the foothills of the Black Hills, Rapid City boasts stunning natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and live music venues. With a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a friendly community, Rapid City is an ideal place to live and work.

Career Path

The Senior Laboratory Quality Specialist position at Sanford Health provides a strong foundation for career advancement within the organization. With experience and demonstrated success, you may have opportunities to move into leadership roles such as:

• Laboratory Quality Manager
• Laboratory Supervisor
• Director of Laboratory Services
• Quality Improvement Director

Sanford Health is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Salary & Benefits

Sanford Health offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its employees. The estimated salary range for this position is $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. The benefits package includes:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer matching
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA)
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement or assistance
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discount programs
• Wellness programs

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. We value teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Our employees are passionate about providing high-quality patient care and making a difference in the lives of others. We are also committed to diversity and inclusion, and we strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

How to Apply

To apply for the Senior Laboratory Quality Specialist position at Sanford Health, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, and explain why you are interested in working for Sanford Health.

FAQ

1. What are the required qualifications for this position?

   A Bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related science field and five years of experience in a hospital or clinic laboratory are required, plus national certification (MLS, HTL, or CLS).

2. Is this position remote?

   While the location is Rapid City, South Dakota, this position has the flexibility to be fully remote within South Dakota.

3. What is the salary range for this position?

   The estimated salary range is $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience.

4. What are the benefits offered by Sanford Health?

   Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, PTO, retirement plan, and more.

5. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?

   Sanford Health is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees.

6. What opportunities are there for career advancement?

   Sanford Health provides opportunities for professional growth and development, with potential for advancement into leadership roles.

7. What is the company's mission, vision and values?

   The role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of services in accordance with the Sanford’s Mission, Vision, and Strategic goals.

8. What type of training is provided?

   The role is responsible for coordinating laboratory safety training and education for all laboratory staff members.

9. Will i have to travel?

   Yes, this role may require travel to laboratory site depending on the needs of the facility and at the discretion of leadership.

10. What certifications are required?

    Possess a national certification for Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), Histotechnologist (HTL) or Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) through an approved Health and Human Services (HHS) agency, for example American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). If working in North Dakota (ND) must be licensed by the ND Board of Clinical Laboratory Practice. Maintain continuing education credits equivalent to the state requirements as needed for license and certifications. May be required to have Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.