Technical Specialist (Microbiology Lab)

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Laboratory Manager and Operations Director, provides ancillary support for clinical activities by performance and appropriate interpretation of moderate and high complexity molecular laboratory tests as defined under CLIA ’88. Perform complex technical work involving molecular analysis of human biological materials. Involves extensive and complex steps requiring manual manipulation and pipetting, close monitoring and control, evaluation of data, and careful and accurate work. Five years of clinical laboratory experience as a certified medical technologist are required, as well as documented expertise in the technical specialty, and the ability to provide leadership in the area of specialty.

Position: Technical Specialist      

Department: Microbiology Lab

Schedule: Full Time

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:

Develops new tests and new testing specialty by consulting and working with medical directors of lab sections.

Perform high-high-quality DNA purification suitable for use in applications such as real time PT-PCR, genotyping and molecular diagnostic testing

Extract, denature and purify DNA from assorted specimen types
Performs and interpret fluorescence in-situ hybridization procedures

Perform PCR, hybridization, and next generation sequencing methods using various molecular platforms

Orders and/or maintains inventory of all supplies related to the operation of the specialty area.

Implements a best workflow or practice model for the area of technical specialty.

Trains all other assigned staff in the technical specialty, and ensure that all training documentation is complete.

Assesses competency of staff to perform testing in the specialty area, and consults with Laboratory Manager and Molecular Directors on needed corrective actions.

After specialized training and required experience, performs moderate and high complexity molecular tests and interprets them.

Acts as a resource and interprets molecular tests for laboratory users in a manner consistent with level of training and knowledge.

Reviews testing and/or procedures performed by other staff to maintain compliance with regulatory agencies as required when deemed qualified to do so by the section supervisor.

Prioritizes STAT and routine samples.

Ensures accurate specimen identification and specimen labeling consistent with section and departmental standard operating procedure.

Ensures appropriateness of sample for requested testing obtains approval for testing, which deviates form standard operating procedure and follows up with notification to patient care unit and documentation in LIS.

Ensures sample testing is performed within the defined time periods for each test type based on specimen viability as outlined in section specific policies and procedures.

Initiates appropriate action and documents steps taken to resolve mislabeled/unlabeled or inappropriate specimens in a manner consistent with Departmental Policies and Procedures and with the Departmental Service Mission.

Identifies labeling problems or discrepancies; informs other laboratory sections about patient identification or medical record number problems.

Ensures that prepared samples are stored according to standard operating procedure (e.g. refrigerated, frozen, incubated).

Ensures aliquotting and processing of specimens is performed within established time limits for each test. Accessions specimens according to standard operating procedure.

Performs instrument and equipment maintenance as defined by each section’s policy and procedures.  Recognizes instrument, equipment or methodology problems and/or discrepancies and bring them, with documentation, to the attention of the appropriate parties.  These may include Assistant Supervisor, Manager, Medical Director, or service company.

Performs QC procedures and assesses Quality Control data according to Section Policy and Procedures.

Recognizes technical and non-technical problems/discrepancies in laboratory operations and brings these problems/discrepancies to the attention of the appropriate parties.  These may include Assistant Supervisor, Supervisor, Physician Director, or service company.

Performs analytic testing assesses the validity of their results according to Section policy and procedures.

Maintains clear, concise, accurate and legible records of test performance.

Provides proper documentation and records of all test procedures performed.