Lead laboratory Technologist (MLS/CLS) - Laboratory Automation (UVA Core Laboratory)

Job description

Technology is rapidly reshaping the future of laboratory medicine, and this role sits at the center of that transformation. As the Lead Technologist in Lab Automation, you will help drive the next generation of Core Laboratory operations by supporting sophisticated automation systems, troubleshooting complex instrumentation, and influencing how laboratory workflows evolve to better serve patients and providers.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a laboratory professional who enjoys solving technical challenges, working hands-on with instrumentation, and exploring the intersection of laboratory science, automation, and informatics. You'll join a forward-thinking team helping advance one of the most innovative areas of modern laboratory medicine.
The Role
As the Lead Technologist, you will serve as a key technical resource within the Core Laboratory, supporting automation systems that impact multiple laboratory disciplines. This position combines hands-on technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, allowing you to influence operations while remaining actively involved in the work itself.
You will play a critical role in supporting the Core Lab's transition toward expanded total laboratory automation, helping ensure automation equipment, middleware systems, and connected workflows operate efficiently and effectively.
In a typical day, you may:
• Support and troubleshoot laboratory automation systems and instrumentation.
• Investigate equipment issues and perform hands-on technical troubleshooting.
• Work directly with automation equipment, including inspection, repair support, and system evaluation.
• Support laboratory middleware functionality and operational rule management.
• Assist with the integration of laboratory instruments and information systems.
• Collaborate with technical staff, laboratory leadership, and operational teams on workflow optimization.
• Train, mentor, and support laboratory team members on automation processes and best practices.
• Monitor system performance and identify opportunities for operational improvement.
• Participate in the implementation and expansion of automation technology across the Core Laboratory.
• Help develop solutions for complex operational and technical challenges.

This role is ideal for candidates who enjoy understanding how systems work, diagnosing problems, improving laboratory efficiency, and applying their technical expertise to large-scale operational initiatives.
Why UVA Health
UVA Health is a nationally recognized academic health system where innovation, discovery, research, and patient care come together to improve lives every day. The Core Laboratory plays a vital role in supporting diagnostic services throughout the organization, and automation is becoming increasingly important to delivering timely, accurate laboratory results.
What makes this opportunity especially compelling:
• Help shape the future of laboratory operations through expanded total laboratory automation initiatives.
• Be directly involved in a major automation rebuild and expansion project that will influence laboratory workflows for years to come.
• Work at the intersection of laboratory science, automation, technology, and informatics.
• Develop highly marketable expertise in laboratory automation, middleware, equipment integration, and systems troubleshooting.
• Gain exposure to emerging technologies as UVA Health continues advancing laboratory innovation.
• Join a collaborative environment with supportive leaders who encourage professional growth and development.
• Expand your knowledge across multiple laboratory disciplines and interconnected workflows.
• Build experience that can support future opportunities in laboratory informatics, automation leadership, technical systems management, or laboratory operations leadership.
• Lead, train, and mentor others while continuing to apply your technical expertise in a hands-on environment.
• Make a meaningful impact on laboratory efficiency, operational excellence, and ultimately patient care.

For laboratory professionals who thrive on technology, innovation, problem-solving, and continuous learning, this role offers a unique opportunity to help build the future of modern laboratory medicine.
Why People Love Living in Charlottesville
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville offers an exceptional quality of life that attracts professionals from across the country. Residents enjoy a vibrant food and dining scene, award-winning wineries and breweries, abundant outdoor recreation, nationally recognized arts and cultural attractions, and easy access to hiking, cycling, and scenic mountain landscapes. Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville combines the energy of an academic community with the warmth of a welcoming and family-friendly city. The region offers an outstanding balance of professional opportunity, natural beauty, and work-life integration, making it one of Virginia's most desirable places to live and work.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Bachelor’s Degree with completion of a NAACLS approved MLS/CLS program; Bachelor’s in Biology/Chemistry or related science
Experience: Bachelor’s Degree with completion of a NAACLS approved MLS/CLS program – 3 years of relevant experience; Bachelor’s in Biology/Chemistry or related science - 5 years relevant experience
Licensure: MT or categorical, ASCP or equivalent required
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Job requires sitting for prolonged periods; Repetitive motion: typing. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull less than 20lbs. May be exposed to fumes, chemicals, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.
The pay range for this role is $33.27 - $53.23 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.
Benefits
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Retirement Savings
• Long-term and Short-term Disability
• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Certification and Education Support

UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as “High Performing” in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children’s is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .