Laboratory Scientist IV - Molecular Supervisor

Oklahoma State Government • Stillwater, OK

9d • $79,188 • Onsite

About The Position

A Laboratory Scientist IV performs and oversees standardized testing, on clinical, environmental, or biological specimens to support disease surveillance, outbreak response, and public health interventions. They ensure test accuracy through adherence to quality control protocols, proper specimen handling, and equipment maintenance. Additionally, they review data analysis, result reporting, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards. At this level incumbents may train, evaluate and review the work/performance of levels I, II, III employees and other laboratory personnel as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical, biological, clinical or medical lab science or medical technology, OR A combination of education and experience including 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, OR 24 semester hours of science courses that include six (6) semester hours of chemistry, six (6) semester hours of biology, and twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination required.
• At least 5 years of high complexity clinical laboratory training and/or testing of human specimens.
• All applicants are subject to a background check and must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Three years of experience as a molecular biology laboratory supervisor in a public health, hospital, medical research or equivalent accredited laboratory setting.
• Nationally recognized certification through one of the following governing accreditations: ASCP, AMT, AABB, NASKL, ASCLS, HHS, ASHI, AAB, ABB, AMS, CRP, EBPH, Military or NILA.
• Advanced knowledge of molecular biology principles, methodologies, and associated subspecialties.
• Demonstrated experience with platforms for real-time PCR and next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies.
• Familiarity with NGS bioinformatics workflows and data analysis.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proven ability to: Manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and ensure thorough follow-up on assigned tasks.
• Effectively communicate technical information both verbally and in writing, while fostering positive and collaborative working relationships.
• Proficiency utilizing Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Perform a broad range of laboratory analytic procedures of varying complexity on human, animal, or environmental specimens/samples using standardized methodologies to support diagnosis, treatment, disease prevention, surveillance, and epidemiological investigations.
• Ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory laboratory safety protocols, including consistent and appropriate utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Receive, sort and accession specimens, evaluate specimen integrity and acceptability for testing, and appropriately route samples to designated laboratory departments or reference laboratories.
• Accurately document all specimen-related information, including patient demographics, collection details, specimen identification and processing, quality control parameters, test results, referrals, and storage and preservation, within the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Perform quality review of test data, comparing results against control materials and established reference ranges to ensure analytical validity and perform basic statistical evaluation, as appropriate.
• Report validated laboratory test results via the LIS in accordance with established reporting standards and regulatory timelines.
• Communicate notification values to appropriate clinical staff and document those notifications in the LIS.
• Identify and troubleshoot technical issues or test discrepancies, initiating corrective or preventive actions in accordance with laboratory protocol.
• Follow established quality management system (QMS) procedures, participate in internal quality control (QC) assessments, and contribute to process improvement initiatives aimed at optimizing test performance.
• Prepare, verify, and maintain internal QC materials and reference standards for routine use in diagnostic testing workflows.
• Perform and document routine maintenance, calibration, and performance verification of laboratory equipment to ensure operational integrity and analytical accuracy.
• Serve as principal resource for analyzer maintenance and repair.
• Participate in external proficiency testing (PT) programs and ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, or other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Review and assist with inventory control processes, including supply monitoring and reagent stock rotation.
• Successfully complete initial training and annual competency assessments for each analytical test system, LIS operation, and other laboratory processes.
• Participate in regular in-service training and appropriate continuing education on laboratory safety and testing procedures.
• Assume responsibility of own professional development and act as a resource to others.
• Work with the section manager to develop training materials.
• Act as preceptor for laboratory personnel.
• Work with the section manager to develop and oversee the validation of new tests.
• Act as reviewer for laboratory technical procedures.
• Demonstrate a willingness to support mission, vision, value statements, standards, policies and procedures, confidentiality standards, and the code of ethical behavior for the agency.
• Individuals may be required to work on occasional weekends or holidays to support continuation of laboratory operations or response to surges in testing activities.
• Being present in the office is an essential function of this job
• Other duties as assigned.
• Provides day-to-day oversight of testing personnel and laboratory section operations to ensure compliance with 42 CFR 493.1461 and all applicable federal, state, and accreditation standards. This includes reviewing and verifying the accuracy of test performance and results, ensuring that all procedures are performed in accordance with established protocols, and maintaining strict adherence to biosafety, chemical safety, and infection control practices.
• Is responsible for managing workflow, assigning tasks, and scheduling staff to optimize laboratory efficiency while maintaining turnaround times.
• This role includes training and mentoring laboratory personnel in testing methodologies, QC practices, and regulatory compliance, as well as conducting and documenting ongoing competency assessments.
• The supervisor develops, reviews, and enforces SOPs, and ensures corrective actions are implemented when deviations occur.
• The individual also plans, executes, and oversees validation and verification processes for all new testing methods prior to implementation, and manages comprehensive quality assurance programs, including review of QC/QA data and proficiency testing.
• Through effective communication and consultation, the supervisor provides guidance to laboratory staff, healthcare providers, and agency officials regarding test interpretation, limitations, and appropriate application.
• By demonstrating accountability, leadership, and regulatory expertise, the supervisor ensures the laboratory maintains compliance, accuracy, and readiness under CLIA regulations.

Benefits

• Generous state paid benefit allowance to help cover insurance premiums.
• A wide choice of insurance plans with no pre-existing condition exclusions or limitations.
• Flexible spending accounts for health care expenses and/or dependent care.
• Retirement Savings Plan with a generous match.
• 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave the first year for full time employees.
• 11 paid holidays a year.
• Student Loan repayment options & tuition reimbursement.
• Employee discounts with a variety of companies and venders.
• Longevity Bonus for years of service

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees