Dana Valdez
San Ramon,CA
Summary
Detail-oriented professional with extensive experience in managing laboratory operations and enhancing team dynamics. Committed to implementing quality improvements and effective communication strategies that support organizational goals and elevate staff performance.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Manager of Laboratory Operations/Technical Manager
Kaiser Permanente
Berkeley
07.2019 - Current
- Managed daily operations of Bacteriology Laboratory, assessing staffing needs to ensure optimal workflow
- Implemented new technology and trained staff to improve laboratory processes and enhance data accuracy.
- Developed standardized training protocol to enhance employee onboarding and consistency in laboratory procedures
- Implemented quality process improvements
- Communicated relevant technical information across all shifts and multiple departments
- Addressed technical errors and assisted staff with decision making
- Created documents to assist employees with troubleshooting and performing assignments
- Oversaw special projects with Division of Research
- HR duties, including handling personnel issues and conflict resolution
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Kaiser Permanente
Berkeley, California
01.2004 - 07.2019
- Conducted bacterial identification and susceptibility testing using automated and manual methods in high-volume laboratory, ensuring accurate results for patient treatment
- Performed molecular assay for detection of enteric pathogens
- Conducted quality control tests on laboratory reagents and media to ensure reliability
- Facilitated training for peers and students to enhance their understanding of laboratory practices
- Managed special projects in partnership with the State of California Department of Health to support health objectives
- Managed all specimen sendouts in compliance with Department of Transportation guidelines to ensure safety
- Excelled in supervisory role, improving communication between shifts and implementing departmental procedures
Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Virology
Stanford Hospitals and Clinics
Palo Alto
01.2014 - 06.2015
- Conducted complex molecular assays and serological tests to support accurate diagnosis and treatment of viral infections
- Operated and maintained laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to discuss test results and findings.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Microbiology
Sutter Health Shared Laboratory
Livermore, California
10.2007 - 12.2009
- Assisted in startup of new Microbiology laboratory
- Conducted all microbiology CLS tasks
- Conducted quality control procedures, maintaining compliance with laboratory standards
Clinical Laboratory Scientist/Technician
ViroLogic, Inc.
South San Francisco, California
06.2001 - 03.2005
- Performed complex testing procedures using molecular methods
- Reviewed and validated team members' work for accuracy to uphold laboratory integrity
- Conducted QA/QC and documented occurrence reports to maintain compliance and quality standards
- Implemented standard operating procedures
- Handled special projects
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Intern
Kaiser Permanente
Berkeley, California
01.2002 - 10.2003
- Trained to perform essential CLS tasks in every department of a high-volume regional laboratory in preparation for the California State Board Exam.
Laboratory Assistant II/III
Kaiser Permanente
Hayward/Fremont
05.1993 - 01.2003
- Performed phlebotomy of adult and pediatric patients
- Processed various types of biological specimens
- Investigated and resolved issues at local and regional levels to enhance laboratory operations
- Educated peers in specimen requirements and procedures
Phlebotomist
Damon Clinical Laboratories
Livermore/Pleasanton
12.1991 - 05.1993
- Managed satellite laboratory
- Conducted phlebotomy procedures for adult and pediatric patients in a clinical setting.
- Prepared and handled specimens for testing to maintain integrity and facilitate prompt laboratory analysis
Veterinary Technician/Lab Technician
Mission San Jose Veterinary Hospital
Fremont, California
01.1987 - 12.1991
- Performed all in-house laboratory tests
- Gave various injections and collected blood samples
- Took x-rays and assisted in surgeries and various clinical procedures
- Placed intravenous catheters and administered fluids and anesthetics
- Managed drug inventory and filled prescriptions to ensure timely patient care
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Biological Sciences
University of California
Irvine, CABachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
California State University
Hayward, CACertificate of Completion - Center for Biomedical Sciences graduate internship
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CASkills
- Operations management
- Process improvement
- Personnel training
- Schedule preparation
- Team leadership
- Team management
- Problem solving
- Communication skills
Certification
- State of California Clinical Laboratory Scientist License
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist
Professional Memberships
- Member of American Society for Microbiology, National and Southern California branches
Timeline
Manager of Laboratory Operations/Technical Manager
Kaiser Permanente
07.2019 - Current
Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Virology
Stanford Hospitals and Clinics
01.2014 - 06.2015
Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Microbiology
Sutter Health Shared Laboratory
10.2007 - 12.2009
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Kaiser Permanente
01.2004 - 07.2019
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Intern
Kaiser Permanente
01.2002 - 10.2003
Clinical Laboratory Scientist/Technician
ViroLogic, Inc.
06.2001 - 03.2005
Laboratory Assistant II/III
Kaiser Permanente
05.1993 - 01.2003
Phlebotomist
Damon Clinical Laboratories
12.1991 - 05.1993
Veterinary Technician/Lab Technician
Mission San Jose Veterinary Hospital
01.1987 - 12.1991
Some College (No Degree) - Biological Sciences
University of California
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
California State University
Certificate of Completion - Center for Biomedical Sciences graduate internship
San Francisco State University