Clinical Laboratory Technician

Job Title: Lab Technician

Reports to: Lab Supervisor

Job summary

The Lab Technician plays a vital role in conducting diagnostic tests and analyses on patient samples within a CLIA-regulated laboratory. This position involves executing various techniques, ensuring accurate and reliable results, adhering to quality control measures, and maintaining compliance with CLIA regulations. The Lab Technician collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to contribute to patient care by delivering precise diagnostic testing.

Key Qualifications:

• Associate degree or higher in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, medical laboratory technology, biotechnology. Must pass COLA standards.)
• Experience in performing molecular assays, such as PCR, DNA sequencing, toxicology and related techniques.
• Familiarity with laboratory instruments, software, and tools used in clinical analysis.
• Understanding of quality control principles and procedures in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Knowledge of CLIA regulations, laboratory accreditation, and compliance requirements.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and analytical skills.
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping abilities.
• Effective problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Adherence to laboratory safety protocols and biohazard management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification or licensure as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or equivalent.
• Previous experience in a CLIA-certified molecular laboratory.
• Proficiency in using molecular analysis software and data analysis tools.
• Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) for result reporting and data management.

Working Environment: The Lab Technician works primarily within a clinical laboratory environment, handling bio-hazardous materials and chemicals. The role involves standing for extended periods, using laboratory instruments and equipment, and following strict safety protocols.

Responsibilities:

1. Sample Processing:

• Receive and process patient samples according to laboratory protocols.
• Extract nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) from various sample types.
• Prepare samples for molecular analysis, including purification and quantification.

2. Assay Setup and Execution:

• Set up and perform molecular diagnostic assays, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), qPCR (Quantitative PCR), RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription PCR), and other nucleic acid amplification techniques.
• Perform analysis using various molecular techniques like gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and hybridization methods.

3. Instrument Operation:

• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments used in molecular analysis, such as PCR machines, real-time PCR machines, DNA sequencers, LCMS and capillary electrophoresis systems.
• Calibrate and troubleshoot instruments to ensure accurate and reliable results.

4. Quality Control and Assurance:

• Monitor quality control procedures to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Identify and troubleshoot issues that could affect assay performance.
• Maintain accurate documentation of quality control data and results.

5. Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Analyze molecular data using appropriate software and tools.
• Interpret results and prepare reports for review by senior staff or clinicians.
• Ensure accurate and clear documentation of results.

6. Laboratory Safety:

• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment.
• Properly handle and dispose of bio-hazardous materials.

7. Training and Compliance:

• Stay updated on advances in molecular techniques and technologies.
• Adhere to CLIA regulations and laboratory policies.

8. Other:

• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Support laboratory team and fill in as needed.

Key Result Areas (KRAs):

1. Accuracy and Precision:

• Ensure accurate and precise performance of molecular assays.
• Minimize errors in sample handling, processing, and analysis.

2. Timely Testing:

• Complete sample testing within established turnaround times.
• Prioritize urgent samples for timely analysis.

3. Quality Assurance:

Maintain quality control measures and adhere to quality assurance protocols.

Participate in proficiency testing and quality improvement initiatives.

4. Documentation and Record Keeping:

• Maintain accurate and organized records of test results, procedures, and quality control data.

5. Instrument Maintenance:

• Ensure proper functioning of laboratory instruments by performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting.

6. Compliance with Regulations:

• Adhere to CLIA regulations and laboratory policies to ensure regulatory compliance.

7. Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with other laboratory staff to ensure smooth workflow and communication of results.

The specific responsibilities and KRAs of a Molecular Technician may vary depending on the type of molecular tests performed in the CLIA laboratory, the laboratory's specialization, and its size. It's important for Molecular Technicians to have a strong understanding of molecular biology principles, laboratory techniques, and quality assurance practices to ensure accurate and reliable test results in a CLIA-regulated environment.

Pay: $40,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person