Position Overview

The Senior Clinical Laboratory Technologist position will be responsible for processing medically relevant biological samples through extraction and/or high throughput DNA sequencing assays. This role will work within a team of Laboratorians in a fast-paced, high production setting to process research and clinical diagnostic samples to provide test results to patients, oncologists and other medical practitioners and researchers. As such, high attention to detail and clinical mindedness are crucial to success in this role.

In certain circumstances, this role may perform certain supervisory tasks when specifically requested by a Laboratory General Supervisor or Clinical Laboratory Director.

Key Responsibilities and Essential Functions

Scope/Impact

• Independently performs and provides high-level support for DNA extractions, PCR amplification or high-throughput sequencing assays on DNA libraries in accordance with standard laboratory processes and procedures.
• Performs training and competency assessments for Clinical Laboratory Technician/Technologist team members on high complexity molecular methods and assists junior roles in developing their training skills.
• Evaluates existing laboratory procedures and processes; develops and implements updates, changes, and new processes to improve efficiency and results.
• Operates and maintains laboratory equipment such as liquid handling robotics and DNA sequencers.
• Takes on additional ancillary responsibilities and suggests actions to more junior staff during down-time.
• Independently completes tasks as assigned (e.g. routine clinical or research sample processing, validations, reagent QC runs, or special projects) accurately and following strict methodologies.
• Provides advice and guidance to less-experienced staff.

Complexity

• Works on problems of moderate complexity that may require analysis of situations or data.
• Gathers and analyzes data and information to identify and solve complex problems that arise with little or no precedent.
• Works on assignments requiring considerable clinical judgement and initiative.
• Understands implications of their work performance and when to escalate issues upward.
• Ensures compliance with lab regulatory agencies (GxP, FDA, ISO).
• Keeps accurate and detailed records for all workflows following Good Documentation Practices.

Knowledge/Level of Expertise

• Demonstrates excellent clinical judgement and integrity by possessing deep knowledge/skills in a range of laboratory procedures and processes.
• Explains technical information within the team clearly and effectively.
• Independently applies understanding of underlying scientific principles of analytical methods and provides relevant information to Supervisor or Lead Technologist to assist with troubleshooting assay or instrument issues leading to appropriate corrective actions.
• Evaluates and communicates technical content in a clear manner to Supervisor or Lead Technologist.
• Handles sensitive information confidentially.

Interactions, Supervision and Discretion

• Lead by example and model appropriate cultural and professional behavior.
• Exercises wide discretion with the appropriate manager oversight.
• Exhibit clear and effective communication to facilitate effective handoff procedures.
• Provides guidance to more junior team members.
• Follows standardized laboratory processes and procedures with no instruction on daily work.

Regulatory Responsibility

• Maintain continuing education credit requirements.
• Record nonconformances for all appropriate errors.
• Enter and track data in a laboratory information database (LIMS)
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as liquid handling robotics and DNA sequencers.
• Regulatory responsibilities per Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Regulatory responsibilities per Good Clinical Practices (GCP)
• Regulatory responsibilities per Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Regulatory responsibilities of “Testing Personnel” for high complexity testing as defined by 42CFR493. 1495

Position Requirements (Education, Experience, Other)

Required

• Earned BS degree in a Chemical, Physical or Biological science from an accredited institution, with greater than seven years of pertinent molecular laboratory experience subsequent to qualifying of which at least seven years have been spent working in a clinical molecular laboratory meeting the definition of high-complexity.

OR

• Earned MS degree with a major in one of the chemical, physical or biological sciences and, subsequent to graduation, has had greater than four years of pertinent molecular laboratory experience of which at least two years have been spent working in a clinical molecular laboratory meeting the definition of high-complexity.

AND

• Molecular biology skills (e.g. DNA Extraction, Purification, PCR, qPCR, next-generation DNA sequencing) and related technical knowledge
• Competent with laboratory automation and demonstrated laboratory best practices
• Experience working with human blood, tissues and/or cells as well as proper handling of biohazardous material.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, ability to collaborate across teams and disciplines

Preferred

• ASCP(MB) certification
• Specialized knowledge and skills: Experience in a clinical, high-throughput environment is preferred.
• Working knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment and supplies.
• Self-motivated and can work independently, with minimal supervision, while also working as part of a team environment in a dynamic organization. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and spoken.
• Experience with Adaptive’s Sample Prep or PCR/Sequencing technologies or Methods.

Working Conditions

Job involves working in a laboratory handling human biological specimens. Flexibility and willingness to work more than standard hours when necessary, including nights & weekends.

Physical Requirements

Individuals are required to sit or stand for much of the workday and perform data entry into computer systems. 

Compensation

Hourly Rate: $37.79 - $56.73

Other compensation elements include:

• equity grant