Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

At Personalis, we are transforming the active management of cancer through breakthrough personalized testing. We aim to drive a new paradigm for cancer management, guiding care from biopsy through the life of the patient. Our highly sensitive assays combine tumor-and-normal profiling with proprietary algorithms to deliver advanced insights even as cancer evolves over time. Our products are designed to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) and recurrence at the earliest timepoints, enable selection of targeted therapies based on ultra-comprehensive genomic profiling, and enhance biomarker strategy for drug development. Personalis is based in Fremont, California.

Shift Available:

• Tues-Sat 10pm - 6:30am

Training hours may be different from your shift schedule. The PM and 3rd shift would be eligible for an additional shift premium.

Summary:

A Lead Clinical Lab Scientist performs and reports on clinical laboratory testing that aids physicians in diagnosing and treating patients. A key part of the role is helping supervise team members and ensuring that all laboratory procedures are followed for specimen handling, next-generation sequencing (NGS) processes, test analyses, and the accurate maintenance of patient records.

In our lab, we foster a positive, friendly, and team-based environment. We all pitch in to achieve our common goals and support each other. You'll work in a dynamic atmosphere, with opportunities to gain hands-on experience at multiple benches, including extractions, library preparation, and sequencing. You'll also partner with our lab assistants to coordinate pre-analytical and post-analytical tasks.

Responsibilities: 

• Perform and report clinical laboratory testing on patient samples to aid physicians diagnose and treat patients. This can include the following areas:
• Extractions
• Library Preparation
• Enrichments
• Handle and process all patient specimens according to laboratory procedures, ensuring accurate and timely record-keeping and reporting of results.
• Execute LIMS entry and review signoffs.
• Select, implement, and evaluate quality control materials for statistical process control of laboratory assays.
• Troubleshoot assays and equipment when quality control materials fail to perform as expected.
• Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from established performance specifications.
• Work with Facilities to address building/facilities related issues that arise during their assigned shift to ensure minimal disruption to processing.
• Work with the OPS managers to report incidents and non-conformances into the Quality team.
• Assist in audits by regulatory bodies like CAP and external customers.
• Participate in activities that support the laboratory's necessary licensure, including quality management and on-site inspections.
• Responsible for maintaining updated understanding and knowledge of the methods employed in the laboratory and the use of the resulting information by physicians through continuing education activities.
• Identify and correct problems that may negatively affect test performance or result reporting. If a problem cannot be immediately corrected, notify a supervisor, clinical consultant, or director.
• Train other CLS and lab personnel on laboratory methods.
• Monitor the activities of non-licensed staff.
• As needed, oversee or supervise the activities of the laboratory in the absence of an onsite manager.
• Provide guidance to team members on troubleshooting and deviation investigations.
• Assist in assay development activities.
• Demonstrate strong analytical skills and independent critical thinking.
• Apply technical and functional knowledge to help the team meet its goals.
• Work independently to identify and resolve complex, open-ended problems.

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree, preferably in sciences or related discipline.
• Licensure: Valid California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) or Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) license.
• Experience: At least two years of CLS experience in a clinical laboratory environment. 4+ years total work experience in a laboratory preferred.
• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership capabilities.
• Preferred Skills: Experience with manual/auto library preparation, manual/auto target enrichment, and automated liquid handlers. Experience with Google Suite and Microsoft Excel.

The hiring range for this position is $66.00 to $82.00 per hour plus applicable shift differential. The offer will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. Our full-time regular positions also include an annual performance-based bonus (or a sales incentive plan) and long-term incentive units (equity) provided as part of our compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Personalis is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the full inclusion of all individuals. As part of this commitment, Personalis will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodations. If you need an accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please let your recruiter know, if/when they contact you.

Protecting Our Candidates: At Personalis, we value your security. Please note that all official correspondence from our team will come exclusively from @personalis.com email addresses. We will never ask for personal financial information or conduct interviews over text or chat platforms. If you receive a suspicious request, it is likely a scam. We are committed to a safe recruitment experience and actively work with authorities to investigate and prosecute cyber crimes targeting our community.

Personalis offers a competitive compensation package and benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, ESPP, tuition reimbursement, sick/vacation time, commuter benefits/ EV charging stations, onsite gym, and wellness benefits. (For US only, benefits in other countries may vary.)

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