Orthodontic Department Lab Manager

Orthodontic Dental Lab Manager

Location: Calgary, AB

Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday (day shift; flexibility during peak periods)

Overview

Seeking an Orthodontic Dental Lab Manager to lead day-to-day operations and ensure timely, high-quality production of orthodontic appliances—retainers (Hawley/Essix), splints, aligners, expansion devices, functional appliances, and indirect bonding trays. This role blends technical depth with people leadership, workflow optimization, and clinician communication to deliver excellent patient outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own daily workflow: case intake, routing, scheduling, and WIP tracking to meet turnaround SLAs.
• Uphold lab safety protocols and quality standards; conduct in-process and final QC.
• Lead digital production: scan processing, digital model prep, CAD design (e.g., 3
  
  Shape Ortho/Appliance Designer), and 3D printing/milling; maintain accurate records and version control.
• Monitor remake/adjustment trends; implement corrective actions, SOPs, and continuous-improvement initiatives (materials, nesting/print strategies, preventive maintenance).
• Manage team performance: hiring support, onboarding, coaching, training, and performance feedback; plan headcount and shift coverage.
• Oversee materials and inventory; coordinate with purchasing and shipping to maintain on-time delivery.
• Serve as primary liaison to orthodontists/practice teams—clarify prescriptions, confirm timelines, provide status updates, and resolve concerns.
• Produce clear documentation (case notes, photos, QC logs) in LIMS/ERP and productivity tools.

Qualifications:

• Experience: 5+ years in an orthodontic or dental lab with demonstrated leadership in a production environment.
• Technical: Proven fabrication/finishing of orthodontic appliances; strong working knowledge of CAD/CAM orthodontic tools and 3D printing.
• Core Skills: Organization, prioritization, and professional communication; ability to lead teams and hit deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
• Credentials: RDT or equivalent designation is an asset.

Success Metrics:

• On-time case completion, reduced remakes, and stable turnaround times.
• Positive clinician feedback and repeat utilization.
• Accurate documentation and schedule adherence.
• Team productivity, training progress, and QC pass rates.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Base compensation: CAD $50–$65 per hour or $104,000-$135,000, commensurate with experience and scope.
• Comprehensive benefits package included.