Lab Operations Specialist

We are seeking a Laboratory Operations Specialist with hands-on anatomic and/or molecular pathology laboratory experience to manage the operational backbone of validation studies and AI development programs. This role focuses on tissue procurement logistics, specimen tracking, scanning operations coordination, digital pathology data management, laboratory workflow coordination, and quality management system documentation and support.Location: Los Angeles, CA (Hybrid – in office 3 days per week)Employment Type: Full-TimeSalary Range: $72,000 – $99,000 annuallyStart Date: ImmediatePrimary Responsibilities:Tissue Procurement & Sample ManagementCoordinate tissue orders across multiple vendorsManage tissue sample receipt, accessioning, inventory, and storageDevelop and maintain systems for tracking tissue blocks, slides, stains, and associated metadataTrack chain of custody documentation and specimen traceabilityReconcile tissue orders against invoices and study requirementsCoordinate with histology contract labs for slide preparationMaintain tissue procurement budgets and vendor performance metricsOversee research supply chain needs including reagents and equipment in coordination with laboratory teamsDigital Pathology Operations & Workflow CoordinationSchedule and coordinate whole slide imaging across multiple projectsOrganize and maintain digital pathology datasets, file structures, and records for AI development and validationSupport slide scanning workflows, labeling, completeness checks, and readiness for downstream analysisMonitor scanner performance and coordinate technical troubleshootingTrack scanning queues, turnaround times, and slide prioritizationManage digital slide file organization and pathologist delivery (SVS files)Maintain scanning logs and quality control documentationInterface with scanning facilities and equipment vendorsData Tracking, Documentation & QC SupportMaintain detailed project trackers, timelines, and sample databasesCreate and update study-specific spreadsheets and dashboardsTrack sample consumption across validation studies and AI training projectsSupport QC workflows for digital slides and datasets, including basic quality checks, labeling accuracy, and metadata completenessSupport documentation compilation for regulatory submissionsEnsure data integrity and traceability for audit readinessGenerate weekly status reports on procurement and scanning operationsPathologist & Vendor CoordinationCoordinate pathologist case assignments, tracking review progress and ensuring deliverables are metServe as primary contact for tissue vendors and contract labsManage logistics with courier services for biological sample shipmentsCoordinate with external pathologists and subject matter experts on sample delivery schedulesSupport CRO coordination for validation study logisticsTroubleshoot vendor issues and procurement delaysAssist with vendor qualification and external partner management as neededQualifications:Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, medical sciences, pathology-related fields, or closely related discipline3+ years in a clinical pathology laboratory environment (hospital lab, reference lab, academic pathology department, or pathology-focused CRO)Direct experience with tissue specimens (FFPE blocks, slides, fresh tissue, or frozen samples)Hands-on experience with specimen accessioning, tracking, and inventory managementFamiliarity with histology workflows (tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, staining)Strong organizational and project coordination skills with ability to manage multiple workflows simultaneouslyProficiency with LIMS systems or laboratory databasesExperience with chain of custody documentation and sample traceabilityComfortable working with both physical biological samples and structured digital datasetsTechnical Skills:Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, complex formulas, data validation)Experience managing multi-project tracking systems and databasesStrong attention to detail and data accuracyComfortable learning new laboratory systems and equipmentExcellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to coordinate across technical teamsRegulatory / Quality:Understanding of quality control practices in clinical laboratoriesFamiliarity with CAP, CLIA, ISO, or GLP standardsExperience supporting laboratory audits or inspections (preferred)Preferred Qualifications:Experience with digital pathology or whole slide imaging systems (e.g., SVS files)Background in anatomic pathology (vs. clinical chemistry or hematology)Prior work in medical device, IVD, or diagnostic developmentExposure to regulated laboratory operations or FDA submissionsHistotechnology certification (HTL, HT (ASCP))Experience with immunohistochemistry (IHC) or special stainsFamiliarity with tissue microarrays (TMAs)Background in oncology diagnosticsExperience coordinating cross-functional teams across scientific, technical, and operational domainsPrior exposure to AI/ML development workflows or training dataset managementWhat We Offer:High-impact work supporting innovative pathology and diagnostic technologiesExposure to digital pathology, regulatory processes, and a dynamic work environmentOpportunity to collaborate with cross-functional teams including AI/ML, clinical development, and regulatory affairsWork Environment:Small, collaborative team environmentFast-paced with shifting prioritiesMix of computer-based work (tracking, documentation, digital file management) and laboratory coordination (accessioning, block/slide filing, and potential technical support with slide scanning)Exposure to advanced digital pathology technologiesHybrid work model based in Los AngelesAbout Us:At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 20 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. In addition, Lighthouse Lab Services will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.Lighthouse Lab Services | 800-838-0602 | lighthouselabservices.com#LLS2