Reagent Quality Control Specialist I

Caris Life Sciences; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Caris Life Sciences is seeking a Reagent QC Specialist I - Molecular to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for QC of incoming reagents. Responsibilities include testing, verification, documentation, and release of reagents for use in the laboratory.

The role requires a scientific Bachelor's degree and at least 1 year in a regulated lab, with proficiency in Microsoft Office and attention to detail. Periodic travel and some after-hours work are possible.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field is required (or equivalent work experience).
• 1+ years' experience working in a regulated laboratory environment (CLIA, NYS, CAP, FDA, ISO, etc.).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and general internet for business use.

Responsibilities

• Maintain compliance to regulatory requirements (e.g., CLIA, NYS, CAP, FDA, ISO).
• Ensure QC testing of incoming reagents is performed and documented per procedures.
• Review reagent information against material specs and records; communicate discrepancies.

Skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in a scientific field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That’s why we’re not just transforming cancer care—we’re changing lives. We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: “What would I do if this patient were my mom?” That question drives everything we do. But our mission doesn’t stop with cancer. We're pushing the frontiers of medicine and leading a revolution in healthcare—driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose. Join us in our mission to improve the human condition across multiple diseases. If you're passionate about meaningful work and want to be part of something bigger than yourself, Caris is where your impact begins.

Position Summary

The Reagent QC Specialist I - Molecular is responsible for maintaining compliance to all applicable regulatory requirements pertaining to the QC process for all incoming reagents which includes initial inspection upon receipt, performing applicable verification testing and assessment, and review of final QC paperwork before passing on to Process Quality for final reagent release into the laboratory.

Job Responsibilities

• Maintain compliance to all applicable regulatory requirements (e.g. CLIA, NYS, CAP, FDA, ISO, etc.).
• Ensure that Quality Control testing of incoming reagents and materials is performed and documented according to applicable procedures.
• Reviews/verifies reagent information (product name, lot number, expiration date, received date, etc.) against information/data captured in the material specification or material receipt record, packing slip, reagent packaging, and material management system.
• Alerts applicable departments when discrepancies in the parameters listed above are detected and helps to facilitate corrections of errors as needed.
• Responsible for owning and maintaining all reagents pending QC and ensuring all QC testing is done in a timely manner.
• Continuously follows up on any issues delaying QC to ensure all reagents are tested as promptly as possible.
• Performs Molecular Department testing including (but not limited to) Next Generation Sequencing, DNA Methylation analysis (MGMT), DNA/RNA extractions and/or DNA/RNA quantification.
• Prioritizes QC for reagents needed urgently as requested by Supply Chain, Receiving, or management.
• Takes direction from management and the Material Review Board when QC repeats are needed and tracks all repeat testing within the reagent tracking system.
• Maintains all reagent QC storage units (refrigerators, freezers, and room temperature cabinets) to ensure they are clean, organized, and any old reagents are properly disposed.
• Any problem reagents being held are regularly followed up on until resolution is determined.
• Responsible for quarantining any problem reagents found within the laboratory reported by clinical personnel, printing and completing the applicable quarantine sign complete with MRB number when appropriate.
• Be available to answer basic questions regarding reagent QC process from clinical personnel or management as needed.
• Compile and submit Quality Control documents for review/approval by Departmental partners.
• Maintains laboratory equipment and ensures that the equipment is in proper working order and notifies leadership if maintenance and/or repairs are needed.
• Demonstrates capability of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of tests results and takes appropriate action.
• Communicate material issues to the cross-functional teams, as necessary.
• Participate in regular team meetings/ huddles as requested by department management.
• Demonstrate an exceptional attention to detail.
• Participate in regular team meetings/ huddles as requested by department leadership.
• Maintains/completes applicable competency assessments.
• Identify opportunities for improvement.
• Accepts other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field is required (or equivalent work experience).
• 1+ years' experience working in a regulated laboratory environment (CLIA, NYS, CAP, FDA, ISO, etc.).
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures for biohazards and chemicals, as well as quality control procedures and regulations.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, Outlook and general working knowledge of Internet for business use.
• Able to work Tuesday-Friday 5:30am-4pm.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in a scientific discipline.
• ASCP or ASQ certifications preferred.
• Previous experience with NGS and other molecular processes such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR, quantification, and pyrosequencing.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize as necessary.
• Previous Quality Control experience executing reagent or material QC processes.
• Previous experience in electronic document control and QMS systems.
• Knowledge and adherence to good manufacturing and good documentation practices.

Physical Demands

• Must possess ability to sit, stand, and/or work at a computer for long periods of time.
• May have exposure to blood-borne pathogens, extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes and bio-hazardous material/chemicals including formalin in the lab environment.
• May be required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
• May be required to lift up to 25 pounds and/or move reagents and materials.

Training

• All job specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on the job functions associated with this employee.

Other

• This position requires periodic travel and some evenings, weekends and/or holidays.

Conditions of Employment

Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check ( applicable for certain positions) and reference verification.

Caris Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.

Caris Life Sciences is a leading innovator in molecular science and artificial intelligence focused on fulfilling the promise of precision medicine through quality and innovation.

Caris is committed to quality and excellence at our state-of-the-art laboratories.

Learn more about our tissue lab and the advanced technologies that are helping improve the lives of cancer patients.