Laboratory Technical Supervisor

Job Summary: The Technical Supervisor provides the technical and scientific oversight of the satellite laboratory's high complexity molecular infectious disease testing. The Technical Supervisor is not required to be on site at all times testing is performed; however, they must be available to the laboratory on an as needed basis to provide supervision. In this role, the Technical Supervisor is the onsite and remote resource for all troubleshooting of laboratory processes and potential technical issues, and the go to resource to provide laboratory personnel support. The Technical Supervisor, in conjunction with the Laboratory Manager and Laboratory Director, ensures all State and CLIA regulatory requirements are met, including methodology selection, performance verification, proficiency testing, quality control, training, and competency assessment. The Technical Supervisor’s contribution ensures the delivery of high quality laboratory services that support patient care and medical research.

Job Description

Technical and Scientific Oversight

·        Select the test methodology that is appropriate for the clinical use of the test results

·        Verify the test procedures performed and establish the laboratory's test performance characteristics, including the precision and accuracy of each test and test system

·        Maintain a quality control program appropriate for the testing performed and monitor the parameters for acceptable levels of analytic performance, ensuring these levels are maintained throughout the entire testing process from initial specimen receipt, sample analysis and reporting of test results

·        Prepare samples for molecular analysis following established protocols and procedures

·        Resolve technical problems and ensure remedial actions are taken whenever test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications

·        Ensure that patient test results are not reported until all corrective actions have been taken and the test system is functioning properly

Supervision and Team Management

·        Lead and supervise a team of laboratory staff, providing guidance, training, and support as needed

·        Evaluate the competency of all testing personnel and assure that staff maintain their competency to perform test procedures and report test results promptly, accurately and proficiently

i.      Evaluate and document the performance of individuals responsible for high complexity testing at least semiannually during the first year the individual tests patient specimens; thereafter, at least annually unless test methodology or instrumentation changes, in which case the individual's performance must be reevaluated prior to reporting patient results

·        Delegate tasks, set priorities, and ensure that work is completed on time and to the required standards

·        Foster a collaborative and positive work environment that promotes teamwork and professional development

Operational and Troubleshooting Duties

·        Be accessible to the laboratory to provide on-site, telephone, or electronic consultation

·        Demonstrate proficiency on primary molecular platforms (KingFisher Flex, QuantStudio 7, QuantStudio 12K Flex) and provide bench level support during high volume or complex runs

·        Technically review procedures and protocol development, validation, and verification packages, and obtain required Laboratory Director approvals before implementation

·        Monitor daily laboratory operations to ensure productivity of all infectious disease testing, with a goal of 100% accuracy in delivering results

·        Perform specimen processing and PCR reactions as needed to support laboratory throughput

Quality Control and Assurance

·        Implement and maintain quality control procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results

·        Monitor and evaluate the quality of laboratory processes, data, and documentation

·        Investigate and address any quality issues or deviations in a timely manner

Compliance and Regulatory Standards

·        Ensure that the laboratory operates in compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and protocols

·        Maintain accurate records and documentation to meet regulatory requirements

·        Coordinate with regulatory agencies, participate in audits and inspections, and implement corrective actions as needed

Equipment and Inventory Management

·        Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, supplies, and materials.

·        Coordinate equipment maintenance, calibration, and repairs to ensure optimal performance

·        Monitor inventory levels, order supplies, and optimize resource utilization to support laboratory operations

Research and Development Support

·        Collaborate with researchers and scientists to develop and validate new testing methods or improve existing procedures

·        Participate in research projects, analyze data, and contribute to scientific publications or presentations

·        Stay informed about advancements in laboratory technology and recommend upgrades or changes as necessary

Communication and Coordiation

·        Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, such as management, staff, and other departments

·        Interact with external parties, including clients, vendors, and regulatory agencies, to address inquiries and maintain relationships

·        Provide regular reports, updates, and recommendations to senior management as required

Safety and Risk Management

·        Ensure a safe working environment for laboratory staff by implementing and enforcing safety protocols and procedures

·        Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with safety regulations

·        Identify and mitigate potential risks to prevent accidents or incidents in the laboratory

Qualifications

·        Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Biotechnology, Medical Laboratory Science, or a related field

·        Bachelor’s degree - at least 4 years laboratory training, work experience or a combination of both in high complexity testing

·        Master’s degree - at least 2 years laboratory training, work experience or a combination of both in high complexity testing

·        Certification as a Technologist in Molecular Biology (MB), Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) or Clinical Laboratory Technologist (CLT) by ASCP, AAB or AMT is preferred but not required

·        Strong knowledge of molecular biology techniques, equipment, and safety protocols

·        Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills

·        Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team

·        Strong communication skills for interacting with colleagues and laboratory management

·        Ability to generate and compile complex molecular data

Proficiency in data analysis software commonly used in molecular biology is preferred but not required