Chemist/Microbiologist II

State of Utah•Taylorsville, UT

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Utah Public Health Laboratory (UPHL) is seeking a Newborn Screening Laboratory Scientist to perform biochemical and molecular newborn screening testing. This role is crucial for public health and requires adherence to CLIA requirements. The position involves high-complexity testing, including screening with auto-analyzers, mass spectrometry, quantitative PCR, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and hemoglobin analysis. Responsibilities include managing inventory, maintaining instruments, preparing specimens, analyzing newborn blood spots, reviewing results, and ensuring compliance with laboratory procedures and regulations. The role also involves participating in research and development, providing customer service, and maintaining ethical standards and confidentiality.

Requirements

Meets CLIA testing personnel qualifications.
Experience in handling clinical specimens in high-throughput, high-volume environments with short turnaround times.
Experience of using clinical instruments and assays for molecular, biochemical and/or mass spectrometry testing applications.
Strong ability to support high-throughput testing workflows.
Skilled at interpreting technical documentation and applying knowledge to practical tasks.
Familiar with CLIA (or other regulatory agency) regulations and requirements.
Willingness to learn and strictly adhere to established safety and operational guidelines.

Nice To Haves

3-5 years of experience in a clinical or other laboratory setting required.
Sunday work is required.
Occasional work on Saturday, Sunday (if not on schedule), or on holidays is required.

Responsibilities

Perform biochemical and molecular newborn screening testing.
Participate in all high complexity testing functions, including screening testing with clinical auto-analyzers, analysis and usage of mass spectrometers, molecular testing including quantitative PCR based screening assays, PCR based tests, next-generation sequencing (NGS) based tests, hemoglobin analysis by isoelectric focusing and HPLC methods.
Manage inventory control.
Maintain instruments and equipment.
Punch dried blood spots (DBS) using high-throughput punching equipment.
Document all activities to meet CLIA requirements.
Prepare specimens for laboratory analysis following appropriate guidelines and procedures.
Analyze and test newborn DBS and resulting in LIMS system.
Review results for hemoglobin variants by IEF, HPLC, real-time PCR, NGS, mass spectrometry and DELFIA based assays.
Review and/or inspect work for quality, accuracy, and completeness.
Stay current and compliances with all laboratories standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Participate in research and development projects related to newborn screening and laboratory testing.
Demonstrate a commitment to customer service and patient care by providing timely and accurate responses to inquiries and requests for information.
Uphold ethical standards and confidentiality in all aspects of laboratory work.
Other duties as assigned by the management.