Position Summary
This position will be responsible for performing complex molecular testing and results analysis according to established standard operating procedures and protocols. The Clinical Lab Team Leader troubleshoots assays, participates in training of other technologists, and ensures that workflow is maintained and directs staff as needed.
Working Relationships
1. Reports To: Department Supervisor/Manager
2. Directly Supervises: Not Applicable
3. Indirectly Supervises: Not Applicable
4. Type of Supervision Received: Minimal
5. Internal Relationships: Moderate
6. External Relationships: Moderate
Essential Functions
· Direct/manage daily workflow
· Perform complex molecular-based procedures with a high degree of quality and in accordance to established protocols
· Maintain complete documentation
· Alert supervisor immediately to any concerns/questions regarding sample and assay quality or integrity
· Ensure that all specimens are tested and repeated in a timely and accurate manner
· Mentor other technologists by demonstrating a strong work ethic, providing constructive criticism, and responding to questions
· Participate in troubleshooting assay and equipment issues.
· Review assay packet documentation for content and accuracy
· Identify problems and implement appropriate corrective actions/solutions.
· Participate in verification and validation studies for process improvements, new equipment, and new technology transfer
· Take on additional projects and tasks at the request of the supervisor
· Evaluates specimens received by the department and organize workflow to provide optimum efficiency of testing and turnaround time of results.
· Evaluates the acceptability criteria for each specimen and checks for correct labeling, specimen container and source.
· Extracts, denatures and purifies DNA from assorted specimen types.
· Performs PCR and hybridization.
· Evaluates results to determine interference, inhibition, or other problems that arise during extraction or amplification of DNA.
· Performs quality control, validation, and other quality activities to verify performance of clinical assays.
· Maintains equipment by performing assigned maintenance activities and troubleshoot unexpected problems with equipment.
· Evaluates and maintains inventory of supplies and reagents.
· Operate complex equipment and computer programs related to equipment and LIS system.
· Understands the importance of and follows the procedures for appropriate specimen handling and disposal.
· Understands and follows all the laboratory safety procedures and use of personal protective wear.
· Maintains records of test results and archives of data.
· Maintains a neat and clean work environment.
· Performs proficiency testing to maintain compliance with regulatory agencies.
· Assists department in writing and maintaining standard operating procedures for clinical assays. Document knowledge by reviewing and signing relevant SOPs annually.
· Evaluates pending sheets or add-on forms to determine if testing is complete for tests performed in the department.
· A working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
· Ensures all reagents display the received date, open date and expiration date. Open expiration dates are written on reagent containers, if applicable.
· Maintains quality results by running standards and controls, verifying equipment function through routine equipment maintenance and advanced trouble shooting; calibrating equipment utilizing approved testing procedures; monitoring quality control measures and protocols. Informs supervisor or manager of problems that might affect or delay result reporting.
· Ability to understand and use the Laboratory Information System to retrieve pending logs.
· Regularly checks and records temperatures of incubators, refrigerators, room temperature and humidity. Informs supervisor if corrective action is needed.
· Keeps testing area, instruments, and department clean.
· Performs other job-related functions as requested by the laboratory manager.
· Has an awareness of the factors that influence test results and the knowledge to avoid it.
· Informs the Molecular Manager to finalize/accept patient results when testing is complete.
Other Responsibilities
1. Exercises all precautions described in the Laboratory Safety Manual.
2. Supports the goals of QDx Pathology Services and maintains a professional manner and demeanor.
3. Complies with all QDx Pathology Services policies and procedures.
Professional Requirements
1. Adheres to dress code, appearance is neat and clean.
2. Completes annual educational requirements (Continuing Education).
3. Maintains and ensures patient confidentiality at all times.
4. Maintains current knowledge of Laboratory policies as well as other regulatory agencies requirements.
5. Reports to work on time and as scheduled, completes work within designated time.
6. Represents the organization in a positive and professional manner.
7. Attends departmental meetings and in-services as scheduled.
8. Actively participates in continuous laboratory quality improvement program.
9. Complies with organizational policies regarding ethical business practices.
Education, Experience and Skills Required
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Technology, or other related science
Must have a minimum of 6 years of clinical laboratory experience at the Technologist level OR Master's Degree with a minimum of 4 years' experience working in a clinical diagnostics laboratory at the Technologist level required
Prior supervisory or leadership experience is a plus
Understanding of laboratory operations as well as policies and procedures
Proficient with Laboratory Information Systems and Microsoft Office
Strong communication skills; both written and verbal
High level of attention to detail with strong organizational skills
Comfortability making decisions in a changing environment
Ability to handle the physical requirements of the position
Working Conditions
1. Typical medical laboratory environment with some risk of exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Moderate noise (e.g., office with many phones ringing, photocopiers, moderate personnel “traffic”), significant communication due to group problem solving efforts.
2. OSHA Category 1: Involves regular exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues.
Pay: From $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
