Orthodontic Dental Laboratory Manager
Position Overview
A full-service dental solutions organization is seeking an experienced Orthodontic Dental Laboratory Manager to oversee daily operations within a high-volume orthodontic lab environment. This role is responsible for workflow coordination, quality control, team leadership, and client communication, ensuring the timely and high-quality production of orthodontic appliances that support excellent clinical and patient outcomes.
The ideal candidate combines strong hands-on orthodontic lab experience with operational leadership, digital workflow knowledge, and the ability to collaborate closely with orthodontic practices.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory Operations & Workflow
- Supervise and coordinate daily orthodontic lab operations, including case intake, scheduling, and production flow
- Monitor work-in-progress and proactively resolve bottlenecks to meet turnaround times
- Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards, protocols, and best practices
- Maintain accurate documentation, including case notes, quality control logs, and case photos
Quality Control & Production Oversight
- Oversee quality and consistency of orthodontic appliance fabrication, including:
- Retainers
- Aligners
- Splints
- Expansion devices
- Bonding trays
- Analyze remake and adjustment trends and implement corrective actions
- Ensure appliances meet both prescription requirements and internal quality standards
Digital Workflow Support
- Support and manage digital orthodontic workflows, including:
- Intraoral scan processing
- CAD design workflows
- 3D printing and milling coordination
- Collaborate with technicians on digital case planning and execution
Team Leadership & Development
- Train and mentor junior and mid-level orthodontic technicians
- Set productivity and quality expectations
- Conduct performance evaluations and support ongoing professional development
- Foster a collaborative, efficient, and accountable lab culture
Client Communication
- Serve as a primary liaison between the lab and orthodontic practices
- Clarify prescriptions and confirm timelines with clinicians and practice staff
- Provide case status updates and address client questions or concerns professionally
Schedule
- Full-time position
- Monday to Friday
Skills & Qualifications
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in an orthodontic dental laboratory
- Strong proficiency in orthodontic appliance fabrication and finishing
- Demonstrated experience managing lab workflows and production schedules
- Working knowledge of CAD/CAM orthodontic tools (e.g., 3Shape Ortho / Appliance Designer or similar)
- Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to balance technical oversight with operational and client-facing responsibilities