Molecular Biologist II

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the limited supervision of the SCID-SMA Screening Group Manager, uses expert knowledge to independently perform highly complex and highly specialized molecular genetic procedures for screening of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) on high volume neonatal screening specimens. Responsible for making significant decisions on the accuracy of laboratory tests on human specimens. Independently determines and troubleshoots complex results based on Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Performs the equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, specimen and reagent preparation, clean-up, and other supporting work for the laboratory. Performs quality control (QC) and utilizes considerable working knowledge of all procedures to participate in maintaining analytic accuracy and continuity of testing. Performs computer database searches, data and worklist evaluation, and record-keeping of results. Actively participates in the safety program. Duties are independently performed with considerable latitude, adherence to standard protocol and with use of scientific knowledge and independent judgment. Supports the creation of a laboratory-wide safety culture by serving as a liaison to the Safety Office to ensure a healthy and safe workplace.

Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary, all staff members will be required to work on Saturday as part of a rotating schedule.

Requirements

• General knowledge of laboratory, quality control, and human molecular genetic principles, techniques, and terminology.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety including sample-handling techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to use various items of laboratory equipment associated with work area.
• Ability to use a computer, including data base searches.
• Ability to interact effectively with staff.
• 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.
• 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 use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material.
• 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 recognize and solve work area problems.
• Ability to maintain work area instruments and automated testing equipment.
• Ability to teach work area procedures to co-workers and guests.
• Ability to prepare diagnostic (analytical) reagents and/or controls accurately.
• Skill to manipulate standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety.
• Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution; or
• Experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.
• Ability to work on Saturdays on rotating basis required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with clinical molecular laboratory testing including procedures in newborn screening.
• Experience in a high-volume workload laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• Performs highly complex advanced molecular genetic procedures including DNA extraction and RT-qPCR following laboratory protocol guidelines for detection of T cell receptor excision circle (TREC), a homozygous deletion of exon 7 in the SMN1 gene, or other markers on high volume neonatal screening specimens. Evaluates and makes preliminary interpretations of highly complex data. Completes all documentation with required information.
• Performs high volume sampling of filter paper specimens and controls for all newborn screening tests. Uses technical knowledge to determine specimen acceptability.
• Follows QC guidelines and monitors the reagents, materials, and assays to ensure accuracy and continuity of testing. Cross-checks positive mailed report verifying abnormal reports are correct. Uses Newborn Screening laboratory information computer system. Completes all required documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Performs equipment maintenance, calibration, comparison, and troubleshooting. Cleans glassware, laboratory equipment and bench surface as required. Disposes of chemical and biological waste following practices in compliance with regulations. Completes all required documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Performs and documents the preparatory and other supporting work for molecular testing. Prepares reagents, standards, reaction tubes, tips and other material needed in the laboratory.
• Promotes workflow through cooperative interaction, reassignment of duties, and teamwork with supervisors, co-workers, and internal and external customers. Initiates rapid communication of abnormal test results to team leader. Conducts training as required. 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. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory.
• 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 with preparing complex technical reports and research papers. Assists in research, evaluation, development, and implementation of new testing procedures.
• Recognizes delays in completion of specimen testing, result reporting, and other essential functions and notifies the supervisor immediately. Identifies problems with atypical test results recommending solutions and consulting with upper-level personnel.

Benefits

• DSHS offers 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
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees