Technical Specialist (Microbiology Lab)

Boston Medical Center; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Technical Specialist to join their Microbiology Lab. This role involves performing and interpreting complex molecular laboratory tests, ensuring compliance with high standards and regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular analysis, DNA purification, and PCR techniques, along with leadership experience. You will collaborate with medical directors to develop new tests and support the education of staff and students. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to innovative clinical practices in a dynamic laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of clinical lab experience as a certified medical technologist.
• Expertise in molecular techniques and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develops and performs complex molecular tests and analyses.
• Maintains compliance with regulatory standards and quality assurance.
• Trains staff and ensures accurate documentation of test results.

Skills

Molecular Analysis

DNA Purification

PCR Techniques

Analytic Skills

Regulatory Compliance

Education

Bachelor's in Biological Sciences

Supervised Training in Molecular Techniques

Tools

Next-Generation Sequencing

Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Laboratory Manager and Operations Director, provides ancillary support for clinical activities by performing and interpreting moderate and high complexity molecular laboratory tests as defined under CLIA '88. Performs complex technical work involving molecular analysis of human biological materials, requiring manual manipulation, pipetting, data evaluation, and precise work. A minimum of five years of clinical laboratory experience as a certified medical technologist, along with documented expertise in the technical specialty and leadership ability, is required.

Position: Technical Specialist

Department: Microbiology Lab

Schedule: Full Time

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:

• Develops new tests and testing specialties by collaborating with lab medical directors.
• Performs high-quality DNA purification suitable for applications like real-time PT-PCR, genotyping, and molecular diagnostics.
• Extracts, denatures, and purifies DNA from various specimen types.
• Performs and interprets fluorescence in-situ hybridization procedures.
• Utilizes various molecular platforms to perform PCR, hybridization, and next-generation sequencing.
• Maintains inventory of supplies related to the specialty area.
• Implements best workflow practices for the technical specialty.
• Trains staff in the technical specialty and ensures documentation is complete.
• Assesses staff competency and consults with management on corrective actions.
• Performs and interprets moderate and high complexity molecular tests after specialized training.
• Acts as a resource for molecular tests and ensures compliance with regulations.
• Prioritizes STAT and routine samples, ensuring proper specimen identification and labeling.
• Ensures specimens are tested within appropriate time frames and handles labeling discrepancies.
• Performs instrument and equipment maintenance, recognizes issues, and reports them.
• Performs QC procedures and assesses data accordingly.
• Maintains accurate records and documentation of test procedures and results.
• Reviews patient results, investigates discrepancies, and documents activities.
• Transcribes results into LIS accurately and appends necessary comments.
• Maintains compliance with all regulatory and quality standards.
• Participates in quality improvement activities, continuing education, and departmental meetings.
• Supports education and training of staff, students, and residents.
• Participates in committees and communicates laboratory information effectively.
• Adheres to safety, infection control, and confidentiality policies.
• Maintains a clean and organized work environment and manages workload effectively.
• Assesses inventory needs regularly and follows hospital policies.
• Follows hospital values and safety procedures and performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Applied Science, or Clinical Laboratory Science from an accredited institution. Supervised training in molecular techniques is preferred.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED: Certification by ASCP, NCA, or equivalent as a Medical Technologist or related specialty is preferred but not mandatory.

EXPERIENCE: At least five years of clinical laboratory experience as a molecular medical technologist, with documented expertise and leadership capabilities.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Knowledge of clinical laboratory standards and high-complexity testing procedures.
• Analytic skills to interpret complex testing results and perform calculations.
• Ability to ensure compliance with regulatory agencies (JCAHO, CAP, FDA).
• Manual dexterity for specimen preparation and operation of laboratory equipment.
• Proficiency in English for communication with physicians and staff.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans