Molecular Technologist

JCSI; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 57,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

JCSI is seeking a Molecular Technologist in Pittsburgh, PA to manage laboratory samples and perform various complex laboratory procedures. Responsibilities include sample preparation, quality control, and laboratory equipment maintenance. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and ideally 1-2 years of clinical lab experience. This role offers exposure to high-complexity testing in a collaborative environment and requires strong problem-solving skills and technical proficiency.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in a clinical laboratory environment preferred.
• Completion of a clinical laboratory training program required.
• Certification in Molecular Biology or related disciplines preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage laboratory samples including preparation and inventory tracking.
• Perform maintenance and routine cleaning of laboratory equipment.
• Conduct digital slide scanning and image analysis.

Skills

Knowledge of molecular, imaging, histological testing techniques

Strong organizational skills

Computer and database proficiency

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related field

Job description

Molecular Technologist

Locations: Pittsburgh, PA

Salary: $57,000-$85,000 - Commensurate with experience

Position Overview

The Molecular Technologist is responsible for sample and reagent preparation, instrument setup and maintenance, and performing a variety of laboratory procedures in a high-complexity clinical laboratory environment. This role includes conducting and monitoring clinical laboratory testing, assisting with additional assays and laboratory tasks, troubleshooting technical issues, performing data and quality control analysis, and communicating findings with internal teams and external collaborators as needed.

All procedures are performed in accordance with scientific methodology, laboratory quality assurance programs, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and applicable regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage laboratory samples, including preparation, batching, storage, inventory tracking, and coordination with clinical and research teams.
• Prepare reagents and perform instrument setup for high-complexity clinical laboratory testing.
• Review laboratory data to ensure compliance with scientific standards and established SOPs.
• Perform maintenance and routine cleaning of laboratory equipment in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Record and monitor environmental conditions, including laboratory and equipment temperatures, and complete daily, weekly, and monthly quality control activities.
• Perform histology techniques such as cutting and staining slides for research or clinical specimens, as needed.
• Perform molecular laboratory techniques and testing procedures as required.
• Conduct digital slide scanning, image analysis, and image data management according to established protocols.
• Review patient samples and controls to ensure analytical and labeling performance meets quality standards.
• Assist with annotation and quality assurance review of digital pathology image analysis when deemed competent.
• Support wet lab and dry lab operations, including laboratory cleaning, slide preparation, calibration, and archival processes.
• Assist with review and revision of SOPs and other quality assurance documentation.
• Support inventory management activities, including ordering, tracking, receiving, and reconciliation of laboratory supplies and equipment.
• Utilize laboratory information management systems (LIMS) to track patient samples and laboratory workflows.
• Troubleshoot laboratory and instrumentation issues and communicate findings to laboratory leadership.
• Perform additional responsibilities and duties as required to support laboratory operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or a related scientific field from an accredited institution.
• 1–2 years of experience in a clinical or equivalent laboratory environment preferred.
• Military laboratory training equivalent to high‑complexity testing personnel requirements may be considered.
• Coursework should include:
• 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology or science coursework
• At least 6 semester hours each in Chemistry and Biology
• Additional coursework in Chemistry, Biology, or Medical Laboratory Science
• Completion of a clinical laboratory training program or documented laboratory training in applicable specialty areas.
• Preferred experience in high‑complexity laboratory testing environments.
• Certification in Molecular Biology or related laboratory disciplines preferred or expected within a designated timeframe.

• Knowledge of molecular, imaging, histological, or other laboratory testing techniques.
• Strong organizational, computer, database, time management, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to interpret scientific publications and apply findings to laboratory procedures.
• Familiarity with clinical quality management systems preferred.
• Demonstrated technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration skills, and independent thinking.
• Ability to support clinical laboratory operations requiring advanced technical judgment and discretion.

Work Environment

• Majority of time spent in laboratory settings and at computer workstations.
• Work may involve low-light environments and prolonged standing or sitting.
• Exposure to chemicals or biohazardous materials may occur in laboratory areas.
• Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in designated laboratory areas.

This company is an equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.