Senior Laboratory Manager

Join Us at Miral Experiences

Miral Experiences is a region’s leader in the management and operation of world-class, award-winning immersive attractions and experiences across Abu Dhabi. Our diverse portfolio includes some of the most iconic entertainment and leisure destinations, including Ferrari World Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi, CLYMB™ Yas Island Abu Dhabi, and TeamLab. Phenomena Abu Dhabi, and CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, as well as cultural treasures like Qasr Al Watan. We specialize in crafting unique experiences that cater to all tastes and ages, delivering a seamless blend of thrills, joy, and discovery. Our attractions are designed to ignite the imagination and create unforgettable memories for visitors from around the world. Whether you're seeking excitement, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, we offer something for everyone.

About the Role

The Senior Laboratory Manager at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi leads the diagnostic laboratory operations, ensuring accurate and timely results that support animal health, welfare, and conservation. You will oversee a team of Laboratory Technologists, managing daily workflows, staff development, and adherence to SOPs while maintaining high-quality diagnostic services for mammals, fish, reptiles, birds, and invertebrates. This role demands a proactive leader who balances technical expertise with operational coordination, driving excellence in hematology, biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular diagnostics. Collaborating closely with Animal Health, Pathology, and QHSE teams, you will embed innovation, uphold safety standards, and ensure the laboratory’s infrastructure aligns with SeaWorld’s mission of advancing animal welfare and regional conservation.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations and Daily Oversight

• Direct day-to-day laboratory operations with hands-on presence to ensure seamless workflow execution and sample prioritization.

  
  

• Oversee comprehensive diagnostic testing—including hematology, biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology—to guarantee accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with clinical standards.

  
  

• Serve as the primary point of escalation for operational and technical challenges, resolving issues promptly to maintain service continuity.

  
  

• Monitor and enforce adherence to approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality benchmarks across all testing disciplines.

  
  

People Management & Supervision

• Lead and supervise Laboratory Technologists, including roster management, workload allocation, and performance oversight.

  
  

• Develop and maintain staff competency through targeted training, mentorship, and adherence to defined scopes of practice.

  
  

• Provide constructive coaching, feedback, and corrective guidance to foster professional growth and accountability.

  
  

• Collaborate with Pathology and QHSE leadership to support succession planning and career development initiatives.

  
  

Processes, Systems & Implementation

• Design and implement efficient laboratory workflows and operational processes aligned with best practices.

  
  

• Partner with QHSE to ensure robust SOPs, risk assessments, and training frameworks are effectively embedded and auditable.

  
  

• Identify and address operational gaps or inefficiencies, driving corrective actions to enhance productivity and compliance.

  
  

• Ensure audit readiness by maintaining consistent adherence to quality systems and regulatory standards.

  
  

Equipment, Consumables & Procurement

• Oversee laboratory equipment functionality, calibration schedules, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

  
  

• Manage consumables and reagent inventories to prevent operational disruptions and ensure supply continuity.

  
  

• Lead procurement activities, including purchase requisitions and vendor negotiations, in collaboration with Procurement and Finance.

  
  

• Enforce proper storage, handling, and usage protocols for laboratory materials in compliance with safety and quality guidelines.

  
  

Quality Control, Safety & Collaboration

• Foster a culture of safety, professionalism, and accountability within the laboratory team.

  
  

• Initiate immediate corrective actions for identified safety or quality risks, ensuring compliance with established protocols.

  
  

• Work closely with QHSE on incident response, training, and corrective measures while retaining accountability for outcomes.

  
  

• Collaborate with Pathology, Animal Health, Rescue, and Research teams to optimize sample handling and communication workflows.

  
  

Other

• Contribute to research initiatives, diagnostic advancements, and data management to elevate laboratory capabilities.

  
  

• Ensure all operations uphold the highest standards of scientific integrity, efficiency, and alignment with animal welfare objectives.

  
  

Qualifications

Essential:

• Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary, Biological, or Medical Laboratory Sciences (or equivalent) with advanced qualifications in laboratory management or diagnostics.

  
  

• 5–10 years of experience in diagnostic or medical laboratories, including at least 4 years in hands-on supervisory or leadership roles.

  
  

• Strong operational leadership and people management skills with a high attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities.

  
  

• Fluency in English with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  
  

• Proficient understanding of diagnostic laboratory principles and experience with laboratory instrumentation and information systems.

  
  

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with experience in quality systems (e.g., ISO 17025/15189) and audit processes.

  
  

• Flexibility and adaptability to evolving operational needs and priorities.

  
  

Desirable:

• Eligibility for UAE laboratory technologist licensure where applicable.
• Experience in veterinary or zoological diagnostic laboratories, preferably within a wildlife or aquatic animal health setting.
• Familiarity with multidisciplinary animal health teams and collaborative diagnostic environments.

Shape The Future With Us

At Miral Experiences, we don’t just create world-class destinations - we create unforgettable memories for our guests and remarkable careers for our people. From theme parks and attractions to guest services and behind-the-scenes roles, every member of our team plays a part in delivering exceptional experiences. We’re driven by passion, powered by innovation, and committed to excellence in everything we do. We’re looking for passionate, driven, and talented individuals who are ready to grow, lead, and make a difference. No matter your background or expertise, there's a place for you at Miral Experiences.