Molecular Biologist II

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

4d • $4,565 - $5,250 • Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Newborn Screening Molecular Branch Manager, uses considerable knowledge to independently perform highly complex advanced molecular genetic procedures (including DNA extraction, electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, automated DNA sequencing, and DNA sequence analysis) to identify mutations causing spinal muscular atrophy, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, and other NBS disorders using standardized procedures developed in the DNA Analysis Team. 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) for DNA studies and utilizes considerable working knowledge of all procedures to participate in maintaining analytic accuracy and continuity of testing. Performs computer database searches, specimen login 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. 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.
• Ability to visually distinguish color differences as required for testing procedures.
• 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.
• Ability to work on Saturdays on rotating basis required.
• Minimum 2 years of molecular testing experience or 1 year of clinical molecular testing experience required.
• Must be able to pass a functional color vision assessment in order to carry out essential job functions.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

• Performs highly complex advanced molecular genetic procedures including DNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, real-time PCR, RFLP analysis, DNA sequencing, and DNA sequence analysis following laboratory protocol guidelines for the identification of mutations causing spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), cystic fibrosis, hemoglobinopathies, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, and other NBS disorders. Evaluates and makes preliminary interpretations of highly complex data.
• Follows QC guidelines and monitors the reagents, materials, and assays to ensure accuracy and continuity of testing. Completes all required QC documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Ensures proper specimen receipt, storage and tracking of location and testing status. Ensures accurate entry of patient demographic information and test results. Uses computer software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, laboratory information system, etc.) to maintain laboratory testing records for reporting and data presentations.
• Performs and documents the preparatory and other supporting work for DNA testing. Prepares reagents, controls, reaction tubes, tips and other material needed in the laboratory.
• Performs equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Cleans and maintains the automated DNA sequencer replacing reagents as needed. 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.
• 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.
• Performs computer database searches to obtain information pertinent to laboratory testing. Uses computer databases for literature searches, genetic disease information and DNA sequence queries. 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

• insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS)
• Hepatitis B and Tetanus/Diphtheria immunizations are provided.
• Shift differential for Saturday rotation applies per DSHS policy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level