Clinical Lab Scientist

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision of the LC Mass Spectrometry Screening Group Manager and the Lysosomal Disease Screening Team Lead, independently performs liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis on newborn screening dried blood spot specimens. Responsible for sample preparation, quality control and assay acceptability reviews. Responsible for performing preventative maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment and proper record keeping. Actively participates in the safety program. Duties are independently performed with moderate latitude, adherence to standard protocol and with use of scientific knowledge and independent judgment.

Requirements

• Knowledge and skill in laboratory, clinical chemistry, quality control, quality assurance, MS/MS and LC-MS/MS principles, techniques, and terminology.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work in harmony with other team members.
• Ability to work as part of a team adhering to structured deadlines for completion of critical laboratory procedures that are performed in high volume.
• Ability to lead co-workers by setting a positive work-ethic example.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.
• Ability to keep accurate, detailed records.
• Ability to complete tasks without close supervision and use mature judgment in test interpretation.
• Ability to prioritize and organize detailed tasks to maintain required section timeframes.
• Ability to use, maintain and troubleshoot work area instruments and automated testing equipment.
• Ability to prepare diagnostic (analytical) reagents and/or controls accurately.
• Ability to use a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis, and results reporting.
• Skill and dexterity to manipulate standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy and safety.
• A Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution is required. Degrees obtained outside the US must be determined to be equivalent to US degree by an acceptable education evaluator.
• Must wear provided personal protective equipment (including: face shield, gloves, laboratory coat, safety glasses) as required by testing/ safety procedures.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with analysis of human samples using complex analytical techniques preferred.
• Experience using analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry preferred.
• Experience with operation and maintenance of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry instruments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs high-volume complex LC-MS/MS analysis on neonatal screening specimens adhering to standard operating protocols. Performs sample extraction and prepares test solutions. 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 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 preventive maintenance of highly complex equipment. Identifies equipment problems, performs troubleshooting and makes routine adjustments as indicated. Monitors and performs calibration verifications of liquid handlers and other equipment on a scheduled basis. Completes logs, checklists and other record keeping documentation associated with equipment maintenance and instrument performance.
• Evaluates and interprets complex data. Identifies problems with atypical test results consulting with team lead or Manager. Actively participates in quality control review and proficiency sample testing. Uses laboratory information management system. Completes and maintains proper record keeping and documentation involved with data evaluation and interpretation.
• Performs other duties such as disposing biological and hazardous wastes, general housekeeping, verifying standard expiration dates, documenting supply inventories, 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. Promotes workflow through cooperative interaction, reassignment of duties, and teamwork with supervisor, and co-workers. Manages assigned work to meet specimen testing, and other essential functions in a timely manner. Consistently complies 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.

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