PCR Laboratory Technician

Rocky Mountain Laboratories

Austin (TX)

On-site

USD 30,307 - 37,195

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off (21 days annually)

401(k) with Company Match

Job summary

A clinical laboratory in Austin is seeking a Molecular Laboratory Technician to join their team. Ideal candidates should have recent hands-on molecular experience in a CLIA-regulated laboratory, performing tasks such as PCR setup and manual nucleic acid extraction. Responsibilities include conducting tests on human clinical specimens, managing workflows, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. The role offers a pay range of $22–$27 per hour and full-time benefits after 60 days of employment.

Qualifications

Candidates must have CLIA requirements for high-complexity testing personnel.
Minimum 1 year of hands-on experience in molecular testing in a CLIA-regulated lab.
6 months of independent manual nucleic acid extraction experience.

Responsibilities

Perform PCR and testing on clinical specimens.
Independently execute full molecular workflows.
Document and report test results as needed.

Skills

Molecular testing

Data analysis

PCR setup

Nucleic acid extraction

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in laboratory science

Associate degree in laboratory science

Tools

QuantStudio real-time PCR systems

KingFisher Flex extraction systems

Job description

Molecular Laboratory Technician

Rocky Mountain Laboratories – Austin, TX

About Us

Rocky Mountain Laboratories is a clinical laboratory providing comprehensive laboratory services. We are dedicated to delivering accurate and timely diagnostic information and are committed to improving healthcare outcomes through cutting‑edge technology and a customer‑focused approach.

Position

We are seeking a Molecular Laboratory Technician to join our Austin clinical laboratory team. This role is best suited for a technician with recent (within the past 12 months), hands‑on molecular experience in a CLIA‑regulated diagnostic laboratory.

The ideal candidate has independently performed full molecular workflows on human clinical diagnostic specimens, including manual nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, data analysis, and result reporting, and can integrate quickly with minimal ramp‑up time.

Research‑only or academic laboratory experience does not meet the clinical bench requirements for this role.

Schedule: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10:30 am to 7 pm

Pay: $22–$27/hour, DOE (set by hiring manager)

Responsibilities

Perform molecular testing (PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR, and/or NGS) on human clinical specimens in a CLIA‑regulated laboratory environment, including infectious disease and/or genetic testing panels
Independently perform full molecular workflows, including specimen accessioning/plating, manual nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, data analysis, and result reporting
Process and manage moderate‑to‑high‑volume daily specimen workflows while maintaining accuracy and turnaround times
Prepare reagents, controls, and samples with strict adherence to quality standards
Set up, run, and troubleshoot real‑time PCR assays and ensure accurate result interpretation
Demonstrate clear understanding of PCR workflow steps and quality checkpoints
Record, analyze, and interpret test results; promptly report abnormalities
Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and equipment
Operate molecular laboratory instrumentation and systems, including real‑time PCR platforms (QuantStudio 5/6/12), KingFisher Flex extraction systems, and related molecular lab equipment
Perform quality control and proficiency testing
Ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, and other regulatory requirements
Maintain organized documentation for audits and inspections
Prioritize tasks to meet turnaround times in a moderate‑to‑high‑volume clinical environment
Collaborate with lab staff and communicate testing updates and issues
Maintain a clean and safe laboratory workspace
Assist with training of new or temporary staff as needed
Support internal audits, continuous improvement initiatives, and special projects as assigned

Required Qualifications

Candidates must meet CLIA requirements for high‑complexity testing personnel (42 CFR 493.1489):

Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology
OR Associate degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology
OR 60 semester hours (with at least 24 in biology and chemistry) plus documented training in molecular biology (minimum 3 months) or an accredited clinical laboratory program

(Degrees in non‑laboratory fields at any level are not accepted)

Additional Requirements

Minimum 1 year of recent hands‑on experience performing molecular testing on human clinical diagnostic specimens in a CLIA‑regulated laboratory
Minimum 6 months of independent manual nucleic acid extraction experience within the past 12 months
Demonstrated ownership of full molecular workflows, including specimen preparation/plating, manual nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, data analysis, and result reporting
Experience setting up and resulting real‑time PCR assays (qPCR)
Ability to clearly articulate hands‑on bench responsibilities and workflow steps during interview
Demonstrated ability to follow protocols and perform high‑complexity testing under CLIA
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after onboarding
Strong attention to detail and consistency
Reliable and punctual with strong time management skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computer‑based data entry
Clear communication skills and a collaborative team mindset

Preferred Qualifications

Experience performing infectious disease molecular testing (e.g., SARS‑CoV‑2, respiratory panels, STI testing)
Experience with KingFisher Flex or similar automated extraction platforms
Experience with QuantStudio 5/6/12 or similar real‑time PCR systems
2+ years of recent experience in a clinical molecular laboratory
Experience in moderate‑to‑high‑volume testing environments
Familiarity with CLIA/CAP regulations and quality systems
ASCP or similar certification
Experience troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory equipment
Prior participation in lab inspections, audits, or validations

Benefits for full‑time W2 Team Members

Benefits begin 60 days after the first full month of full‑time employment.

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off (21 days annually for full‑time team members)
7 Paid Holidays
401(k) with 50% Company Match up to 6% ***
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability (RML covers 60% of STD premium) ***
Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
100% Company‑Funded Employee Assistance Program (EAP) ***

Additional Information

If you meet the qualifications and are interested in this position, please submit your resume for consideration. We look forward to hearing from you!

At Rocky Mountain Laboratories, we prioritize the care and well‑being of our team members.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Rocky Mountain Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in its workforce. We comply with all applicable federal and state laws and prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, disability, or genetic information. We also comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Pre‑Employment Notice & E‑Verify

Rocky Mountain Laboratories participates in E‑Verify. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and other pre‑employment screenings, as required.

Employment with Rocky Mountain Laboratories is at‑will. This means either the Team Member or the company may end the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable laws. Nothing in this posting or in future communications alters that relationship.

While we appreciate interest from staffing agencies, Rocky Mountain Laboratories does not currently partner with external agencies. Resumes submitted unsolicited will not be considered, and no fees will be paid.

Please only reference our LinkedIn and Indeed pages for current openings: