Clinical Lab Chemist III

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

3d • $5,434 - $6,250 • Onsite

About The Position

Under limited supervision of the Mass Spectrometry Screening Group Manager, this role uses considerable knowledge to independently perform highly complex tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis on high volume neonatal screening specimens. The position serves as an authority on test procedures in the MS/MS laboratory and utilizes considerable working knowledge of all procedures to participate in maintaining analytic accuracy and precision. Responsibilities include monitoring and independently performing specimen preparation, analysis, quality control and assay acceptability, data and work list evaluation, result entry, release of final results, maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment, proper record keeping, and training of personnel. The role involves making significant decisions on the accuracy of laboratory tests on human specimens and independently determining and releasing complex results based on Standard Operating Protocols (SOP). The position actively participates in the safety program. Group Manager or lead technologist will assign a small portion of daily work providing general instruction for routine tasks and detailed instructions for non-routine tasks. Duties are independently performed with considerable latitude, adherence to standard protocol, and with use of scientific knowledge and independent judgment.

Requirements

• Education - bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, or clinical laboratory science
• Experience operating, validating, and/or troubleshooting liquid chromatography (LC), mass spectrometers, (MS) or LC-MS for analysis of human samples.
• Must be willing to work on Saturdays, the 'What days are you unable to work' section of the application must not include cannot work on Saturday.

Responsibilities

• Independently performs highly complex MS/MS and LC-MS/MS analysis on high-volume neonatal screening specimens adhering to standard operating protocols. Prepare internal standard and test solutions and performs sample extraction. Monitors and completes proper record keeping and documentation involved with analytical testing and specimen flow. Collates and files electronic and raw results according to DSHS record retention policies.
• Performs high-volume sampling of filter paper specimens, standards, and controls for newborn screening tests adhering to standard operating protocols. Uses technical knowledge to determine specimen acceptability. Completes proper record keeping and documentation involved with specimen and standards preparation. Preserves samples and standards according to standard operating protocol.
• Performs routine and specialized preventive maintenance of highly complex equipment. Identifies equipment problems, performs troubleshooting, and makes routine adjustments as indicated. Monitors and performs calibration verifications of liquid handling and other equipment on a scheduled basis. Completes logs, checklists and other record keeping documentation associated with equipment maintenance and instrument performance. Provide assistance to team members on the proper operation, maintenance and documentation of instruments and equipment. Verifies equipment is operating properly and immediately consults with Team Leader or Group Manager when difficult problems arise, assisting with resolution.
• Evaluates and interprets highly complex data. Identifies problems with atypical test results consulting with Team Leader or Group Manager and ensuring final result is captured and reported. Reviews and releases final results. Uses Newborn Screening laboratory information management system. Completes and maintains proper record keeping and documentation involved with data evaluation and interpretation.
• Promotes workflow through cooperative interaction, reassignment of duties, and teamwork with supervisor, co-workers, and internal and external customers. Initiates and delivers rapid communication of abnormal test results to Clinical Care Coordination staff for same day follow-up. Recognizes delays in completion of specimen testing, result reporting, and other essential functions and notifies the Team Leader or Group Manager immediately. Manages assigned work to meet specimen testing, reporting, and other essential functions in a timely manner. Conducts training and tours as assigned.
• Actively participates in quality control review, proficiency testing, equipment performance documentation, specimen workload tallies and supply inventory to ensure consistently acceptable quality assurance and test performance. Assists in developing procedures for processing specimens to ensure the accuracy of the results and proper handling of specimens. Write or revise standard operating procedures (SOP).
• Monitors and performs other duties such as disposing biological and hazardous wastes, general housekeeping, verifying standard expiration dates and volumes, verifying specimen preservation, verifying refrigerator temperatures, and verifying laboratory hoods are functioning properly. Employs safe laboratory practices to protect self and others in the laboratory, checks proper functioning of eyewash stations and other safety equipment. Based on work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Performs other duties not specified in the job description, if necessary, as directed by the Group Manager or Team Lead. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Benefits

• insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level