Lead Laboratory Technologist

Lead Laboratory Technologist

At Dascena, our mission is to develop and implement clinically proven machine learning algorithms to improve patient outcomes. Our innovations help detect disease, improve the delivery of care, and save lives. The Lead Laboratory Technologist possesses a deep understanding of PCR testing principles, quality control measures, and the importance of teamwork. To succeed in this role, you must be a strong leader who maintains a positive and professional interpersonal style in a highly dynamic, fast paced, customer focused environment with the ability to look beyond daily functions to help implement higher standards through evaluation and education.

What you’ll do:

Assist the Laboratory Supervisor with the day to day operations of the department. Regularly communicate with supervisor and/or leadership group progress, problems, and any significant factors affecting assigned responsibilities. Assist with the training of new hires and the development of current employees. Assist other technologists with problems, initiate resolution of errors, document discrepancies, perform troubleshooting on all instruments trained on to resolve all errors and other problems, initiate service calls when appropriate, and escalate issues to supervisor and/or leadership as necessary. In conjunction with the Lab Supervisor and QA review current procedures and coordinate changes to implement procedures that will facilitate more accurate and timely reporting of patient results. Responsible for the completion of any special projects, process improvements, or new method introduction at the request of the Supervisor/Lab Manager. Independently and accurately perform routine and complex molecular testing on patient samples, including DNA/RNA extraction and PCR testing consistently according to established standard operating procedures as described in procedure manuals, quality control specifications, and workflow guidelines. Ensure that all workflow processes are completed within acceptable time frames. Monitor TAT report to ensure timely reporting of results. Evaluate results to determine interference, inhibition, or other problems that arise during extraction, amplification, or sequencing of DNA. Perform quality control, validation, and other quality activities to verify the performance of clinical assays. Perform and document preventative maintenance and quality control procedures. Perform proficiency testing to maintain compliance with regulatory agencies. Understand and observe all confidentiality and HIPAA provisions. Monitor, operate, and troubleshoot instrumentation to ensure proper functionality. Prepare, test and evaluate new reagents or controls. Report accurate and timely test results in order to deliver quality customer service and patient care. Maintain a safe work environment and wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Additional duties as assigned.

What you have:

• Bachelor of Science degree biological science, molecular biology or related field AND two-four (2-4) years of experience in a high-volume clinical setting OR
  • Master’s Degree in biological science, molecular biology, or related field AND two (2) years of experience in a clinical setting OR
  • PhD in biological science, molecular biology or related field with minimum of six (6) months of experience in a clinical setting.
• ASCP-MB and/or AMT certification is desired, but not required.
• Previous leadership experience is a plus. Thorough knowledge of molecular laboratory techniques.
• Excellent pipetting skills (single and multi-pipette).
• Knowledge of common DNA testing procedures from sample prep through analysis. Understanding of QC and QA within a clinical laboratory setting.
• Proficiency with Laboratory Information Systems, Microsoft Office, and Google Workspace.
• Must be able to pass a standardized color vision screen.
• Ability to handle the physical requirements of the position.

What you’ll bring:

• High energy level, comfortable performing multifaceted activities.
• High level of attention to detail with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Strong communication skills; both verbal and written.
• Comfortability making decisions in a changing environment.

Other Information:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• To build a diverse workforce, Dascena encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities, veterans, and women. Dascena is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.