Forensic Toxicology Laboratory Scientist I

Quest Diagnostics•Lenexa, KS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position works within the Forensic Toxicology Laboratory and is responsible for all aspects of testing donor specimens, including specimen preparation and instrument operation. The role is based in Lenexa, Kansas, and is scheduled Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM. Pay starts at $26.50 per hour. The employee may be eligible for a shift differential of 10% for some or all second-shift hours and 15% for some or all third-shift hours; further details are provided if an offer is extended. Salary offers depend on factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and applicable certifications, as well as market and organizational factors. Successful candidates may be eligible for annual performance bonus compensation. The position requires careful specimen handling and chain-of-custody practices, adherence to laboratory procedures and quality standards, documentation, equipment maintenance, and participation in validations and continuing education. The scientist must maintain acceptable productivity and quality, communicate equipment or production issues, and follow direction from the Supervisor and/or Group Lead.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree with at least 15 semester hours in Chemistry, 15 semester hours in Biology, and 3 semester hours in Mathematics, or applicable regulatory requirements (listed as preferred).
Ability to perform routine and repetitive motions, such as pipetting.
Ability to stand or sit for long periods of time.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of laboratory experience.
Knowledge of methods and procedures used by the laboratory.
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree with at least 15 semester hours in Chemistry, 15 semester hours in Biology, and 3 semester hours in Mathematics, or applicable regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

Maintain chain of custody of forensic specimens and follow approved sample-handling procedures.
Follow departmental standard operating procedures and maintain competency in assigned areas.
Prepare new reagents and verify their performance.
Ensure required calibrators and quality-control samples are included in each batch.
Use sound analytical techniques and minimize failed loads.
Perform routine maintenance on equipment within the area of responsibility.
Program sequence tables for sample analysis and perform basic data review.
Maintain legible and complete documentation.
Keep the work area clean and organized.
Perform and document checks of temperature-dependent equipment.
Participate in method and/or instrument validation studies and validation of new calibrators, controls, and new or modified analytical procedures.
Maintain acceptable productivity and quality levels, and notify the Supervisor and/or Group Lead of equipment or production problems.
Complete assigned continuing education activities and competency verification checks.
Follow the direction of the Supervisor and/or Group Lead and comply with company and department policies.
Complete quality-control and quality-assurance documentation related to the job function.
Follow the work schedule defined by the Supervisor and maintain a professional work environment.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical, supplemental health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees who work 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost Blueprint for Wellness® health assessment program.
healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one “MyDay” off.
FinFit financial coaching and services.
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
Employee stock purchase plan.
Life and disability insurance, with buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.