PCR Supervisor (PGx Testing)

Ethos Holding Corp•Newport, KY

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The PCR Supervisor is responsible for leading the team of PCR Specialists and overseeing the daily operations in the Microbiology department, including testing patient specimens for pharmacogenetics (PGx) test orders using a MALDI-TOF instrument platform. In addition, this person will ensure patient lab reports are accurate and completed on time, be accountable for proper documentation and compliance with regulations, oversee required studies and validations, evaluate opportunities for process improvement, and participate in developing new processes for instrumentation and testing methods, as needed.

Requirements

Deep knowledge of pharmacogenetics (PGx) testing
Deep knowledge of PCR processes, instrumentation, and workflows
Proficient in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting MALDI-TOF instruments, extraction equipment, liquid handlers, thermal cyclers, and other instruments/equipment
Demonstrated experience creating, revising, and operating from SOPs
Ability to lead by example
Ability to model and foster in others time management, conscientiousness, dedication, and accountability
Ability to listen, learn, and promote accountability and responsibility related to all processes
Ability to maintain the highest level of confidentiality and adherence to HIPAA regulations
Must be able to and willing to follow established protocols employing acceptable standards of analysis and the use of judgment in searching for solutions or new applications within one’s own experience
Must be able and willing to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
Proficient with Microsoft Office applications
Bachelor of Science (or higher) in Chemistry, Pharmacology, Biology, Medical or Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or similar analytical science field with minimum of 4 years of relevant experience
Per CAP standards, years of experience must include: At least 2 years in high-complexity testing; At least 1 year in molecular pathology methods
Must have experience performing pharmacogenetics (PGx) testing
Must have experience supervising a laboratory department that conducts pharmacogenetics (PGx) testing
Critical thinking and problem solving, with a high level of attention to detail
Must have leadership qualities and be able to supervise employees
Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
Excellent time management, scheduling, documentation, and organizational skills
Must be flexible, innovative, and self-motivated
Must be able to motivate, coach, and mentor employees for highest level of performance
Must be able to delegate and accomplish goals through others
Must be experienced with laboratory software

Nice To Haves

Preference for candidates with experience operating MALDI-TOF instruments
Preference for candidates with experience developing or optimizing PCR processes
Preference for candidates with experience in a high-throughput production laboratory
Preference for candidates with experience with CLIA, COLA, CAP, and/or NYS standards

Responsibilities

Oversee the daily operations of the Microbiology department
Ensure adherence to BSL-2 safety standards within the Microbiology department
Ensure adherence to CAP, CLIA, and NYS standards within the Microbiology department
Ensure adherence to Ethos Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Policies
Ensure patient specimens are tested accurately and lab reports are released on time, utilizing data reports
Oversee instrument and equipment maintenance, scheduling with vendors as needed
Maintain appropriate records of certifications, repairs, and maintenance for lab instruments and equipment
Provide direct leadership for the team of PCR Specialists
Hold weekly department meetings to share updates with the team
Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the PCR Specialists
Hold monthly KPI meetings for ongoing coaching and feedback
Track and maintain data and instrument performance indicators on a daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual basis
Establish and monitor department metrics for turnaround time, accuracy, throughput, expenses, etc.
Participate in interdepartmental meetings to share department metrics, challenges, new processes, etc.
Collaborate and communicate with other department leaders
Review and/or create SOPs and controlled documents within the Microbiology department as needed
Develop new and improve existing PCR processes as needed
Take steps to increase efficiency and productivity with instrument processes, minimizing downtime while maintaining optimum conditions
Identify, troubleshoot, and analyze issues or trends related to instrument operation, instrument repair, calibrations, quality controls, workflow, patient data, etc.
Document incidents and accidents on the appropriate forms and perform remedial training, if required, to prevent further incidents/accidents
Escalate issues to the Laboratory Manager, Laboratory Director, Quality Manager, or VP of Operations as needed
Interview, hire, onboard, and train new employees
Complete employee competency assessments initially, after first 6 months, and annually
Participate in developing new processes for instrumentation and testing methods as needed
Become fully trained and competent in PCR Specialist responsibilities to support the team with daily functions during periods of high volume or to cover absences
Exemplify and encourage positive interactions within the lab to inspire collaboration and teamwork
Other duties as assigned