Medical Lab Scientist I

Natera; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability benefits

Free employee testing

Job summary

Natera is seeking a licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist to analyze specimens and ensure instruments operate correctly. You will verify samples, perform tests, and maintain compliance with GLP and HIPAA requirements.

The role involves guiding technicians, updating SOPs, and participating in continuous improvement efforts to uphold quality and safety in a BSL‑1 to 2 laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• BS/BA degree in Medical Technology, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Current MT/MLS/CLS/MB certification preferred from ASCP, AMT, or AAB.

Responsibilities

• Verify specimens and perform the required tests.
• Analyze clinical laboratory specimens following standard methods with high accuracy.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of lab methods and SOPs.
• Provide oversight of personnel and daily lab operations.

Skills

Interpersonal

Troubleshooting

Pipetting

Molecular Biology

Communication

Data management

Teamwork

Independence

Education

BS in Medical Technology / Biological Sciences

Tools

LIS familiarity

Job description

Natera is currently seeking a licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist to analyze specimens and maintain equipment in good operating condition.

Primary Responsibilities

• Verify the proper specimen being analyzed and perform the required tests.
• Proficiently analyze clinical laboratory specimens following standard methods and procedures in an efficient manner with little to no errors.
• Maintain updated understanding and knowledge of methods performed in the lab.
• Provide general oversight of personnel and daily operations in the lab.
• Meet expected performance metrics within the role as applicable.
• Follow GLP (good laboratory practice): maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Complete training and other deadlines on time.
• Provide guidance for new Clinical Laboratory Operators and/or Medical Laboratory Scientists.
• Train on specialized instructions for instruments/protocols (super users).
• Recognize and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and common analytical and processing errors according to the laboratory’s SOP.
• Document and elevate protocol deviations to lead/supervisor.
• Assist with documentation for nonconformance reports.
• Participate in updating departmental SOPs and database to accurately reflect current practices.
• Conduct independent continuous improvement projects.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory agency requirements through proper documentation (e.g., maintenance logs, bench worksheets).
• Perform quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of clinical data (if applicable).
• Maintain equipment and instruments in good operating condition (e.g., calibration, expiration dates).
• Maintain inventory of materials, supplies and equipment in the laboratory.
• Communicate with team and other departments on various platforms (including via e‑mail).
• Provide feedback on day‑to‑day schedule and tasks to lead/supervisor; offer suggestions or ideas for improvement.
• Assist teammates in completing daily tasks and facilitate workflow as needed.
• Conduct oneself in a professional manner; act as a role model or mentor to others.
• Adhere to departmental expectations.
• Work with PHI on a regular basis in both paper and electronic form and access HIPAA‑protected technologies.
• Complete HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance training, and security training within 30 days of hire.
• Maintain a current status on Natera training requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• BS/BA degree in Medical Technology, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Current MT/MLS/CLS/MB certification preferable from ASCP, AMT, or AAB.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, computer, troubleshooting, and pipetting skills.
• Experience in Molecular Biology preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Word processing and data management skills.
• Ability to work well in a group.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Duties performed in BSL‑1 to 2 laboratories with potentially hazardous material.
• Standing or sitting for long periods may be necessary.
• Duties may require working weekends and overtime.
• Must be able to lift boxes or supplies up to 35 lb.
• Duties require wearing safety goggles, gloves, and a laboratory coat.
• Duties require exposure to cold air due to frequent access of refrigeration and/or freezer units.
• Must be able to discern color visually (or evaluate cellular morphology when applicable) and pass the applicable screening assessment.

Benefits

Competitive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans; free testing for employees and immediate families; fertility care benefits; pregnancy and baby bonding leave; 401(k); commuter benefits; generous employee referral program.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with applicable laws.