Medical Laboratory Scientist (Biochemistry Section Lead)

Woodlands Health; Singapore; On-site; SGD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Woodlands Health is seeking a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist to lead a 14‑strong biochemistry team, oversee testing quality, and drive improvements across the diagnostic workflow. The role emphasizes staff development, audits, and cross‑department collaboration to ensure safe, accurate results in a fast‑paced hospital environment.

Applicants should have a biomedical science degree (or equivalent) with 5+ years in a clinical lab, and familiarity with accreditation processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Biomedical Science, or Diploma with relevant experience.
• Minimum 5 years of clinical laboratory/biochemistry experience with leadership or supervisory roles.
• Experience in healthcare settings with accreditation knowledge (CAP/ISO/JCI).
• ASCPi certification is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 14 biochemistry staff, manage workflow and allocate tasks for efficiency.
• Oversee biochemical testing procedures ensuring accuracy and compliance with standards.
• Lead external quality assessment investigations and validation of new tests.
• Develop and deliver training programmes and conduct competency assessments.
• Coordinate liaising with clinicians and management to ensure seamless service.

Skills

Leadership

Microbiology

Quality assurance

Staff management

Audits

Education

Bachelor/Master in Biomedical Science

Diploma with relevant experience

Job description

About Us

Woodlands Hospital is a next-generation healthcare system in Singapore, designed from the ground-up to meet the future of care. As a new integrated acute and community hospital with specialist outpatient clinics and innovative care models, we go beyond traditional hospital walls to deliver person‑centred, connected, and seamless care.

Our mission is to redefine healthcare for a rapidly aging and diverse population, through digital innovation, preventive health, and strong partnerships with the community. With a deep commitment to team‑based care, sustainability and health equity, Woodlands Health is not just about treating illness – we are building a healthier future for all.

This Role Matters

We are looking for a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist (SMLS) who is excited to lead and innovate within a dynamic laboratory environment, drive quality improvements, and make a meaningful contribution to patient care through excellence in diagnostic services.

As Woodlands Hospital moves towards the next generation of integrated, tech‑enabled healthcare, we need someone who is ready to support the mission by ensuring diagnostic excellence that underpins person‑centred and connected care. If you’re someone who has a strong microbiology background, thrives on quality and staff management, and has comprehensive oversight of testing processes, this role is for you.

Team Management and Leadership

• Lead and coordinate a team of 14 biochemistry laboratory staff, managing workflow and task allocation for efficient operations.
• Monitor performance, provide feedback, and conduct appraisals whilst fostering a collaborative environment that supports continuous learning and improvement.

Technical and Operational Oversight

• Oversee biochemical testing procedures ensuring accuracy and compliance with laboratory standards.
• Lead External Quality Assessment return investigations to identify and resolve discrepancies, conduct comprehensive analyser evaluations including validation and performance monitoring, and manage introduction and validation of new biochemical tests in-house.

Training and Development

• Develop and implement training programmes to enhance technical skills and knowledge of biochemistry staff.
• Conduct regular competency assessments and refresher sessions, keeping the team current with advances in biochemistry testing and laboratory technology.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

• Ensure adherence to laboratory protocols, quality control measures, and safety standards.
• Participate in internal and external audits, implement corrective actions, and maintain comprehensive documentation for testing, quality assurance, and equipment evaluations.

Collaboration and Communication

• Liaise effectively with clinicians, laboratory management, and other departments to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Prepare comprehensive reports on section performance, analyser evaluations, and new test implementation progress.

Act with Purpose & Professionalism

• Model high standards of professional practice aligned with laboratory and hospital expectations.
• Uphold the mission and values of Woodlands Health while continuously growing your professional expertise.
• Take on additional responsibilities as directed by the Head of Clinical Laboratory in support of service needs and organisational goals.

What You Bring

• Education & Experience – Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biomedical Science, or equivalent OR Diploma with relevant experience and proven competency.
• Minimum 5 years of clinical laboratory / biochemistry experience required, including leadership or supervisory experience.
• Experience in healthcare setting certified by recognised accreditation body is essential.
• Demonstrated experience in personnel training and assessment, policy development and implementation of work instructions, and familiarity with Ministry of Health licensing processes and CAP, ISO, or JCI accreditation procedures required.
• ASCPi certificate is advantageous.

Attributes That Set You Apart

• A problem‑solver who brings clarity and structure to complex challenges.
• A multi‑tasker who thrives in dynamic, fast‑moving environments.
• A collaborative team player who believes in uplifting others.

Other Information

• Shift work may be required depending on service needs.
• This role requires extended periods of standing throughout the workday.
• Exposure to biological and chemical hazards necessitates strict adherence to safety protocols.

Why This Role?

The Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist represents a pivotal leadership opportunity within the healthcare system, combining technical expertise with management responsibilities.

This role offers the chance to influence laboratory operations across critical areas including quality management, staff development, and service delivery whilst maintaining oversight of the complete diagnostic testing process.