Clinical Laboratory Scientist

SUMMARY OF JOB DESCRIPTION

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist is responsible for specimen processing, test performance and reporting clinical molecular genetic test results. This position requires a Clinical Laboratory Scientist license from the California Department of Public Health.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS)

• Conducts clinical molecular genetic testing for multiple workflows, both manual and automated methods, in accordance with the laboratory’s policies and procedures for specimen handling and processing.

• Troubleshoot basic instrumentation and/or assay failures under the supervision of laboratory leadership.

• Identify and document all problems, issues, and/or deviations that may affect test performance or reporting of test results.

• Initiate and collaborate on all corrective and preventive action plans, when needed for events reported.

• Performs and documents all quality control and quality assurance activities, including but not limited to instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance. 

• Perform proficiency testing in the same manner as patient specimen testing.  

• Satisfactorily completes training and competency on all assigned tasks, including training on instrumentation and equipment. 

• Involved in performing test method validation and verification runs for accuracy and precision, when appropriate.

• Responsible for adhering to all laboratory policies and procedures for employee health and safety, including but not limited to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), hazardous/chemical waste disposal, Emergency Response, and IT Security. 

• Assures compliance with all regulatory agencies including but not limited to, CAP, CLIA, NYDOH, Cal OSHA)

• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

General: Technical knowledge of molecular laboratory testing and terminology. Excellent teamwork. Ability to communicate effectively, attention to detail, and prioritize and accomplish workload. Working knowledge of standard office equipment, including but not limited to, computer skills, printers, phone systems, office software, and internet functionality. 

Education and/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science. Clinical Laboratory Scientist License from the State of California Department of Public Health, Molecular Genetics preferred. Prior work experience in a clinical laboratory certified under CLIA; CAP and NYDOH accredited laboratory experience preferred.

Language Skills: Ability to read and understand documents received at Prescient Lab Services as well as within the organization, including but not limited to, policies, standard operating procedures, work instructions, procedure manuals, maintenance instructions, and guides. Ability to speak effectively one-to-one as well as in a group environment. 

Mathematical Skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measurement. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent. Ability to create and interpret graphs. 

Reasoning Ability: Ability to use common sense understanding and problem solve in variable situations. 

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Responsible for maintaining all required certifications and/or licenses that are required for the role. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and perform repetitive motion. The employee may be asked to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, ability to adjust focus with extended periods of time using computer screens.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Travel: N/A

Safety: Responsible for the knowledge and practice of Employee Health and Safety SOPs in the laboratory and office.

Office: Maintains a well-ordered and tidy work area on-site.  

Remote Office: N/A