Laboratory Technician

Optima Medical•Prescott Valley, AZ

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Laboratory Technician performs routine, complex, and high-complexity laboratory testing in accordance with established laboratory procedures, CLIA requirements for nonwaived testing personnel, and Arizona educational and competency expectations for laboratory professionals. The Laboratory Technician supports all phases of laboratory operations, including pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic processes, to ensure accurate, timely, and reliable patient test results. This position may perform testing within multiple laboratory disciplines, including chemistry, toxicology, and molecular diagnostics. Personnel assigned to perform high-complexity molecular testing, PGX (pharmacogenomic) testing, and/or toxicology confirmation testing utilizing the Shimadzu LC-MS/MS analyzer must meet applicable CLIA requirements, complete required training, and demonstrate competency prior to independently performing patient testing.

Requirements

Completion of an accredited Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program (NAACLS, ABHES, or CAAHEP accredited) or equivalent Clinical Laboratory Science program.
Experience with molecular laboratory workflows, including: Nucleic acid extraction and sample preparation, PGX testing workflows, PCR-based methodologies or molecular platforms, Contamination prevention practices and molecular quality control processes.
Experience with LC-MS/MS toxicology confirmation testing, including: Sample preparation, Instrument operation, Calibration and quality control review, Troubleshooting analytical issues.
Successful completion of documented training and competency assessment prior to independently performing patient testing.
Participation in semiannual and annual competency assessments as required by CLIA.
Strong knowledge of laboratory techniques, instrumentation, quality control, safety practices, and regulatory requirements.
Ability to troubleshoot analytical issues and follow complex laboratory procedures.
Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and critical thinking abilities.
Effective communication skills and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to stand for extended periods, lift to 25 pounds, work with hazardous chemicals and infectious materials, and perform repetitive manual tasks.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree (4-year) in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS/CLS), Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or another biological or chemical science that meets CLIA requirements for high-complexity testing personnel.
National certification through ASCP (MLS, MT, MB, or MLT) or AMT.
4-year Medical Laboratory Scientist/Technologist with experience in molecular diagnostics and toxicology testing.
MLT degree and prior experience in molecular testing, PGX workflows, nucleic acid extraction, and/or toxicology confirmation testing.

Responsibilities

Determine specimen acceptability according to established laboratory criteria.
Perform specimen accessioning, processing, preparation, and storage according to laboratory procedures.
Maintain proper specimen identification, integrity, and documentation throughout the testing process.
Follow established procedures to ensure compliance with CLIA pre-analytic quality requirements.
Perform routine, complex, and high-complexity laboratory testing according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Perform molecular testing, PGX testing, and toxicology confirmation testing when qualified and authorized.
Perform toxicology confirmation testing utilizing the Shimadzu LC-MS/MS analyzer, including specimen preparation, analysis, quality control review, and troubleshooting.
Perform molecular laboratory procedures including nucleic acid extraction and preparation of patient samples for PGX testing.
Prepare, evaluate, and utilize reagents, calibrators, controls, and testing materials.
Apply technical judgment to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve analytical issues.
Review and report accurate laboratory results within established turnaround times.
Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation.
Perform and document preventive maintenance, quality control, calibration verification, and instrument function checks.
Monitor quality control performance and take appropriate action when quality standards are not met.
Maintain competency on all assigned laboratory instrumentation, including molecular platforms and the Shimadzu LC-MS/MS toxicology confirmation analyzer.
Participate in quality assurance activities, proficiency testing, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Maintain adequate inventory of reagents, supplies, and consumables.
Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory workspace.
Support efficient laboratory workflow and assist with process improvement initiatives.
Follow laboratory procedures to ensure accurate and timely patient testing.
Maintain a safe work environment by following biosafety, chemical hygiene, and infection prevention practices.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all safety requirements.
Comply with CLIA regulations, Arizona laboratory requirements, laboratory policies, and established SOPs.
Completely required competency assessments, continuing education, and regulatory documentation.