What are the responsibilities and job description for the Forensic Toxicologist I position at Central Valley Toxicology, Inc.?
Forensic Toxicologist I
A Forensic Toxicologist I within Central Valley Toxicology, Inc. is an entry level position. The role is responsible for conducting various analytical tests on biological samples, such as blood, urine, vitreous humor, gastric, bile and other tissues, to detect and quantify the presence of drugs, alcohol, and other potentially toxic substances.
Here's a general outline of the duties typically associated with a Forensic Toxicologist I in this setting:
- Have a Bachelor's degree in toxicology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology or closely related scientific fields. It should include a course in analytical chemistry.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the effects of alcohol and/or drugs on human performance and behavior and be able to testify in court.
- Ability to work independently, set priorities, work efficiently and accurately.
- Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety, quality assurance and quality control procedures.
- Valid driver’s license or other means of reliable transportation.
- Be able to work in the United States.
- Sample Reception and Logging:
- Familiarity with sample receipt, log, and storage, ensuring a strict chain of custody.
- Label samples with unique identifiers and input information into a laboratory information management system (LIMS).
- Sample Preparation:
- Conduct basic procedures to prepare samples for analysis, such as centrifugation, aliquoting, extraction, and concentration.
- Handle various biological samples, such as blood, urine, vitreous humor, gastric, bile and tissues.
- Instrument Setup:
- Assist laboratory analysts by setting up and prepping analytical instruments.
- Clean and sterilize equipment and glassware as required.
- Reagent Preparation:
- Prepare, label, and store reagents, solutions, and buffers used in the laboratory.
- Ensure that reagents are prepared according to established protocols.
- Quality Control:
- Prepare and handle control samples to be run alongside test samples.
- Monitor and stock reference standards and materials.
- General Laboratory Maintenance:
- Ensure the cleanliness and organization of the lab space, including cleaning work areas and disposing of waste.
- Monitor and restock lab supplies, informing supervisors when supplies are low and order supplies as needed.
- Equipment Maintenance:
- Perform routine maintenance on basic lab equipment.
- Calibrate equipment as necessary and report any malfunctions or issues to analysts or supervisors.
- Safety & Compliance:
- Follow all laboratory safety protocols, including proper handling and disposal of chemicals and biohazardous materials.
- Participate in safety training and stay informed about laboratory safety procedures.
- Data Entry & Documentation:
- Input data into computer systems, ensuring accuracy.
- Assist with maintaining laboratory records, including equipment logs, maintenance schedules, and sample inventories.
- Sample Disposal:
- Dispose of samples following laboratory procedures and regulations, ensuring that samples are retained for the required period before disposal.
- Assist Laboratory Analysts:
- Provide support to analysts during analytical processes as needed.
- Help with routine tasks or repetitive procedures to free up analysts for more complex tasks.
- Continuous Learning:
- Participate in training sessions and stay updated with new laboratory techniques and procedures.
- Continuously enhance technical skills and knowledge relevant to the lab's operations.
- Ethical Adherence:
- Ensure that all tasks are carried out with integrity and honesty.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding samples and results.
The role in a forensic toxicology laboratory, while largely supportive, is pivotal for the smooth operation of the lab. They ensure that both the preparatory and aftermath stages of analysis are handled efficiently, allowing analysts to focus on the critical task of sample analysis. Their attention to detail, organizational skills, and adherence to protocols are vital for the laboratory's success.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $21.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Education:
- Bachelor's (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Clovis, CA 93611 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Clovis, CA 93611: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21 - $30