What are the responsibilities and job description for the Engineering Specialist I - Genomics position at Discovery Life Sciences?
About Discovery Life Sciences:
Discovery Life Sciences (Discovery) is a leading provider of highly characterized human biospecimens and cellular starting materials to advance cell and gene therapy and precision medicine programs for cancer, infectious disease, and other complex conditions. We routinely manage hundreds of studies and expertly test thousands of biospecimens simultaneously. Leading biopharma, diagnostic and academic institutions trust us to quickly deliver high-quality biospecimens and reliable, reproducible biomarker data, so they can outpace their competition and push the leading edge of innovation using our Science at your Service TM business model.
Position Summary:
The Clinical Engineering Specialist 1 will contribute to Discovery's mission by ensuring consistency of practices based on standard operating procedures and is also expected to work in a safe manner adhering to all company, state and federal regulatory requirements.
A Day in the Life of an Engineering Specialist at Discovery Life Sciences:
- Make sure that required equipment is fit for use.
- Set up a return to service protocol
- Document all required information about machines
- Coordinate with the lab team on the upcoming maintenance on machines.
Must-Have Qualifications (Education, Skills, Experience):
Must Have:
- Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, electronics, medical technology or related field.
- 1-2 years of experience supporting a clinical laboratory or operating in a biomedical equipment technician role.
- Proficient user of windows-based computer programs including word processing, spreadsheet, data management, internet and e-mail.
- Knowledge and compliance of local, state and federal regulations to include but not limited to GCP/GCLP, 21 CFR Part 11, CLIA/CAP EH&S and HIPPA.
- Ability to read and interpret technical manuals.
- Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation.
Nice-To-Have:
- Automation experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Liaison with production staff to coordinate repair work, statutory safety inspections and supply of new equipment with production schedule.
- Participating in the installation and commissioning of new equipment
- Execute job functions using independent judgement with minimal supervision
- Supports the maintenance, calibration, and operation of laboratory instruments and equipment
- Maintain accurate records of service, inspections, and maintenance in compliance with regulatory requirements to ensure audit readiness (e.g., CLIA, CAP).
- Collaborate with laboratory personnel to ensure optimal equipment performance and minimize downtime.
- Assist with validation and verification of new laboratory instruments and systems.
- Monitor instrument performance trends and identify potential issues before failures occur.
- Interface with equipment manufacturers or vendors for technical support and updates.
- Ensure adherence to health and safety protocols within the lab environment.
- Adhere to the Laboratory's quality control policies and procedures including executing and documenting all:
- Quality Control activities
- Instrument and Procedural calibrations and verifications
- Equipment maintenance and preventative maintenance
- Follow the Laboratory's established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable ranges of performance
- Identify and document problems that may adversely affect test performance, notifying the supervisor or director
- Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications
- Perform and document preventive and corrective maintenance according to OEM specifications and regulatory standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP).
- Report all concerns of quality and/or safety to Laboratory Management or the Safety Officer
- Communicate effectively, consistently and clearly with Laboratory Management, cross-functional teams/departments and other laboratory staff
- Perform basic assay and/or equipment troubleshooting that adversely impacts test performance, reporting any issues to Laboratory Management
Compensation and Benefits:
Discovery Life Sciences is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices, and we strive to provide employees with total compensation packages that are market competitive. The exact base pay offered for this role will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.
Your annual salary is only one part of your total compensation package. Other benefits:
- Competitive salary and benefits package options including free medical, dental, vision, life, and disability which start on your first day of employment!
- 401(k) match program which starts on your first day of employment
- Time away from work (Generous vacation and paid time off, your BIRTHDAY, paid parental leave, paid family leave, etc.).
- Professional development opportunities and reimbursement for relevant certifications.
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity.
- Team-building activities and social events.
- Employee Referral Program and Colleague Recognition Program
Location and work hours:
- Onsite at Huntsville, AL location
Flexible work schedule, start time between 7am and 8am local time
We are actively seeking motivated, dedicated individuals like you to join our thriving organization. As a leader in our industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and success.
