Laboratory Tech PRION

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting wage rate is $23.68 per hour.

Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under direct supervision, performing daily operations of a high-complexity testing at the National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center laboratory. Use advanced techniques, which may include histology techniques, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, protein purification, DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis, sequencing and genomic analysis. Facilitate ongoing brain specimen sampling, tissue bank management, laboratory inventory management, and quality control in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulatory standards, including CLIA.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conduct routine laboratory tests on biologic specimens to provide information necessary for the diagnosis of prion disease. Perform analysis and interpretation of results. Perform result entry and quality control. Maintain detailed documentation of procedures and results Using appropriate software to create and analyze results obtained from diagnostic methods. (30%)
• Perform accurate, high quality benchwork including, processing, embedding, sectioning and immunohistochemical staining on pathology of the brain. Accurately record test results and maintain lab records. (20%)
• Track orders and inventory, maintain stock and solutions. Provide general upkeep of the lab such as hazardous waste disposal, contractor maintenance coordination, equipment maintenance, etc. (20%)
• May assist in training new laboratory testing personnel, as needed cross-train in other lab departments including specimen receiving. (15%)
• Participate in complex research in an immunohistochemical lab. May co-author research projects. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS

• May assist with tissue bank and laboratory inventory. (5%)
• Perform other duties as assigned by CLIA lab director or Operations Manager (<1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Frequent contact with the manager and director of the center. Frequent contact with other members of the research and diagnostic groups, other support personnel, faculty, and postdoctoral fellows.

University: Occasional contact with faculty and staff in the School of Medicine, University Hospital Department of Medicine and numerous support and service departments in University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University.

External: Frequent contact with suppliers of laboratory products and supplies.
Students: Limited contact with student employees

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

QUALIFICAITONS

Experience: 3 to 5 years of related experience required.

Education: Bachelor's degree in physical, chemical and biological sciences.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office is preferred.
• Must demonstrate compliance with university policies and procedures guidelines and other applicable regulatory guidelines (CLIA, NY State CLEP).
• Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow through on assigned projects.
• Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with co-workers and supervisors. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter).
• Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain patient confidentiality.
• Ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data.
• Ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary.
• Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within clinical chemistry, histology and molecular genetics.
• Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
• Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and test ordering clients or laboratories.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. The employee will be exposed to hazards including biohazardous (potentially infectious) human brain and cerebrospinal fluid and other bloodborne pathogens and chemicals. Standard laboratory conditions with some hazardous chemicals. Special hazards include biohazardous (potentially infectious) human brain material. (Nonexempt Position. Essential staff. Does not qualify for Case Hybrid work program.)

In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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Case Western Reserve University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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