Director – Laboratory Information Systems

The Director – Laboratory Information Systems leads the strategy, design, implementation, and optimization of LIS platforms across clinical, diagnostic, or research laboratories. The role is responsible for ensuring data integrity, interoperability, regulatory compliance, and system performance while aligning LIS capabilities with laboratory operational goals.

The Director serves as the bridge between IT, lab operations, vendors, and clinical users—driving digital transformation, LIS upgrades, and system integration with instruments, EMR/EHR, and other health IT platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and execute the strategic roadmap for LIS platforms, upgrades, and system integrations.

• Oversee implementation, configuration, and maintenance of LIS systems including middleware and interfaces.

• Manage vendor relationships and service-level agreements (SLAs) with LIS providers (e.g., Epic Beaker, Sunquest, LabWare, SCC Soft, Orchard).

• Ensure LIS aligns with regulatory and accreditation standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP, HIPAA, 21 CFR Part 11).

• Lead projects for LIS expansion, integration with EHR, billing, analytics, and laboratory automation systems.

• Collaborate with stakeholders to optimize LIS workflows supporting sample tracking, result validation, QC, and analytics.

• Build and manage cross-functional teams, including LIS analysts, interface developers, and application specialists.

• Develop and monitor system KPIs: uptime, turnaround time (TAT), data accuracy, and user satisfaction.

• Oversee data governance, LIS change control, validation testing, and cybersecurity compliance.

Key Focus Areas:

1. LIS System Strategy & Lifecycle Management

   • Define LIS vision aligned with lab operational and clinical needs

   • Manage full system lifecycle: selection, implementation, upgrades, and decommissioning

2. System Integration & Interoperability

   • Interface LIS with analyzers, middleware, EHR/EMR, billing, PACS, LIMS, and data warehouses

   • Ensure HL7, ASTM, FHIR, and other health IT standards are implemented securely and efficiently

3. Workflow Optimization & User Experience

   • Automate manual processes and enhance LIS usability for lab staff, clinicians, and administrators

   • Enable decision support, alerts, and customizable reports

4. Compliance & Data Security

   • Enforce data privacy and regulatory compliance (HIPAA, GDPR, CLIA, ISO 15189)

   • Support audits, validations, and disaster recovery planning

5. Reporting & Analytics Enablement

   • Drive real-time data access for KPIs, quality metrics, and operational dashboards

   • Enable LIS-driven business intelligence and predictive insights

6. Team Leadership & Stakeholder Management

   • Build and lead a high-performing LIS team

   • Serve as a strategic advisor to lab leadership, IT, and compliance teams

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s in Health Informatics, Clinical Laboratory Science, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, or related field

  • Certification in LIS/EHR (e.g., Epic Beaker, Sunquest) or HL7/FHIR preferred

• Experience:

  • 10+ years of experience with LIS in a clinical or research setting

  • 5+ years in leadership roles, managing LIS teams or projects

  • Experience with LIS-EHR integration, lab automation systems, and middleware tools

• Technical Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of LIS platforms (e.g., Epic Beaker, Sunquest, SCC Soft, Orchard, LabWare)

  • Proficient in HL7, ASTM, FHIR, SQL, and interface engines (e.g., Rhapsody, Cloverleaf)

• Soft Skills:

  • Strategic thinking, cross-functional leadership, stakeholder engagement

  • Excellent communication skills and change management experience