Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology)

Woodlands Hospital; Singapore; On-site; SGD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare institution in Singapore is seeking a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology) to lead a dynamic lab team and ensure diagnostic excellence. This pivotal role includes managing staff, overseeing microbiological testing, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. The candidate must have a strong microbiology background, at least 5 years of leadership experience, and a degree in Biomedical Science. The position supports a modern, integrated healthcare model and offers opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of clinical laboratory/microbiology experience required.
• Experience in healthcare setting with recognized accreditation is essential.
• Demonstrated personnel training and assessment experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate a team of microbiology laboratory staff.
• Oversee microbiological testing procedures and ensure quality standards.
• Develop training programs for staff and conduct assessments.
• Ensure compliance with MOH guidelines and support accreditation processes.

Skills

Team management

Microbiology expertise

Quality assurance

Technical oversight

Training and development

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biomedical Science

Job description

Sr Medical Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology)

Family Group: Allied Health

Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology)

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.

Why 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 provides comprehensive oversight of testing processes, this role is for you.

What You Will Drive

1. 1. Team Management and Leadership
   • Lead and coordinate a team of 10 microbiology laboratory staff, managing workflow allocation to ensure efficient operations.
   • Monitor staff performance, provide feedback, and conduct appraisals whilst fostering a positive, collaborative work environment.
   • Requires minimum 5 years of laboratory staff management experience.
2. 2. Technical and Operational Oversight
   • Oversee comprehensive microbiological testing procedures including culture, identification, sensitivity testing, and molecular diagnostics.
   • Ensure strict adherence to laboratory protocols, quality control, and safety standards whilst troubleshooting technical issues and maintaining equipment calibration.
3. 3. Training and Development
   • Develop and implement training programmes for new and existing staff to enhance technical competencies.
   • Conduct regular competency assessments and refresher sessions, keeping the team current with advances in microbiology and laboratory technology.
4. 4. Quality Assurance and Compliance
   • Ensure compliance with Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines and relevant regulatory requirements.
   • Support laboratory accreditation processes, with CAP accreditation experience advantageous.
   • Participate in audits, implement corrective actions, and maintain accurate documentation for testing, quality control, and training records.
5. 5. Collaboration and Communication
   • Liaise effectively with clinicians, laboratory management, and other departments to ensure seamless service delivery.
   • Prepare and present performance reports on microbiology section and address operational issues as required.
6. 6. 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 / microbiology experience required, including leadership or supervisory experience.
• Experience in healthcare setting certified by recognized 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.