Supervisor, Lab Operations

Primary Function of Position

The Lab Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, logistics, operational readiness, and continuous improvement of the training laboratory environment in support of Customer Training programs. This role ensures training centers are equipped with the appropriate technology, inventory, equipment, and operational support necessary to deliver high-quality customer and internal training experiences.

The Lab Operations Manager partners cross-functionally with Customer Training, Customer Learning & Development, Product Marketing, Field Service, Finance, and other internal stakeholders to support operational excellence, new technology and product launches, laboratory infrastructure, inventory management, vendor coordination, and process improvement initiatives.

This role also provides day-to-day leadership and operational oversight for lab associates, including scheduling support, onboarding, coaching, workload prioritization, and fostering a collaborative and accountable team environment. The Lab Operations Manager reports directly to the Training Manager for their region.

Essential Job Duties 

• Analyze, implement, and support operational process improvements in collaboration with Customer Training leadership.

• Develop, maintain, and optimize operational policies, procedures, and work instructions.

• Coordinate laboratory resources, logistics, installations, and operational support for new technology, software, and product launches.

• Manage requests and scheduling for laboratory space, systems, and training assets in collaboration with internal stakeholders.

• Oversee inventory management, including tracking, organization, replenishment, and lifecycle management of training assets and equipment.

• Monitor inventory and operational usage trends to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost optimization.

• Manage maintenance schedules, service contracts, repairs, and vendor coordination for training center equipment and infrastructure.

• Manage purchase orders, internal sales orders, vendor setup processes, and associated operational tracking metrics.

• Coordinate logistics, shipping, and importation of training assets and products as needed.

• Partner with Customer Learning & Development, Professional Education Managers, and other stakeholders to support protocol and course updates, including necessary equipment and system updates.

• Support national lab operations initiatives and cross-functional operational efforts as needed.

• Maintain compliance with company policies, quality standards, and laboratory operational requirements.

• Contribute to departmental goals and operational initiatives through proactive ownership and accountability.

• Foster accountability, collaboration, professionalism, and a positive team culture.

• Coach team members on operational expectations, communication, and process execution.

• Support employee development, performance feedback, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Skills and Experience 

• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with the ability to identify operational challenges and drive effective solutions.

• Demonstrated ability to lead projects from planning through execution and completion.

• Demonstrated leadership experience with the ability to effectively support, develop, and manage team members.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to provide feedback, collaborate cross-functionally, and navigate conversations professionally.

• Ability to work independently while maintaining strong collaboration within a team environment.

• High attention to detail with a focus on operational accuracy and efficiency.

• Solution-oriented mindset with a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

• Ability to learn quickly and adapt within a dynamic operational environment.

• Professional work ethic with strong accountability and ownership.

• Commitment to self-development and ongoing team development.

• Ability to be flexible with hours of operation.

• Ability to travel up to 15%.

Due to the nature of our business and the role, please note that Intuitive and/or your customer(s) may require that you show current proof of vaccination against certain diseases including COVID-19.  Details can vary by role.

Intuitive is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information or any other status protected under federal, state, or local applicable laws.

Mandatory Notices

U.S. Export Controls Disclaimer:  In accordance with the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (15 CFR §743.13(b)), some roles at Intuitive Surgical may be subject to U.S. export controls for prospective employees
who are nationals from countries currently on embargo or sanctions status.

Certain information you provide as part of the application will be used for purposes of determining whether Intuitive Surgical will need to (i) obtain an export license from the U.S. Government on your behalf (note: the government’s licensing process can take 3 to 6+ months) or (ii) implement a Technology Control Plan (“TCP”) (note: typically adds 2 weeks to the hiring process).  

For any Intuitive role subject to export controls, final offers are contingent upon obtaining an approved export license and/or an executed TCP prior to the prospective employee’s
start date, which may or may not be flexible, and within a timeframe that does not unreasonably impede the hiring need. If applicable, candidates will be notified and instructed on any requirements for these purposes. 

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with fair chance laws.

This position may be filled at a different job level than listed here depending on
business need and/or on the selected candidate’s experience, knowledge and skills.
Compensation will be based primarily on the job level at which the role is filled and the
candidate’s qualifications, consistent with applicable law.

We provide market-competitive compensation packages, inclusive of base pay, incentives, benefits, and equity. It would not be typical for someone to be hired at the top end of range for the role, as actual pay will be determined based on several factors, including experience, skills, and qualifications. The target base compensation ranges are listed.