Molecular / Microbiology Technologist II

Job Summary:

The Molecular/Microbiology Technologist II is an experienced clinical laboratory professional responsible for performing high complexity molecular and microbiology testing while serving as a technical resource within the department. In addition to routine testing, this role provides advanced trouble shooting, validates new assays and instrumentation, mentors staff, and supports quality improvement initiatives to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant patient testing in conformance with state and federal regulatory guidelines.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Performs high-complexity molecular and microbiology testing independently.
• Perform and interpret complex molecular assays including PCR, RT-PCR, and multiplex PCR, sequencing, and other molecular diagnostic methodologies.
• Perform advanced microbiology procedures including organism identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and molecular pathogen detection.
• Analyze and review results, accurately enter and release clinical results into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) (2nd Review/Final Review).
• Evaluate data to determine interference, contamination, inhibition, or other problems that may arise during extraction and amplification of nucleic acids.
• Follows aseptic techniques and cleaning procedures for the prevention of contamination.
• Responsible for the preventive maintenance and function checks procedures of equipment, as well as performing corrective action when necessary.
• Ensures patient specimen stability, proper sample processing and takes appropriate corrective action when errors are detected, or rejections/recollections are required.
• Performs all quality control procedures to ensure validity and analytic performance of test results and troubleshoots according to laboratory protocols.
• Exhibits efficient use of time and resources, meeting expectations for turnaround time (TAT).
• Treats all proficiency testing samples according to regulatory agencies’ guidelines and laboratory expectations.
• Trains department personnel.
• Performs equipment and assay verifications, validation, and equivalencies according to the approved plans. Assist with correlation studies.
• Collect and analyze validation data. Document validation activities according to regulatory requirements.
• Maintains proficiency and competency.
• Participates in regulatory agencies’ readiness and onsite inspections.
• Communicates effectively and timely as needed to coworkers, department leadership and other divisions.
• Assist with workflow optimization.
• Participates in evaluation of new testing platforms and technologies.
• Routinely handles biohazardous and / or chemical hazardous material.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge of molecular diagnostics and microbiology principles.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
• Working knowledge of assay validation and verification processes.
• Familiarity with laboratory developed tests (LDTs) and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Willingness to maintain confidential information
• Must be analyzed for color perception

Education and Experience:

Education / Certifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution, or
• 2-5+ yrs of successful high-complexity laboratory experience.
• Meet CLIA requirements 42 CFR.493.1489

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Employee is regularly required to talk or hear
• Employee frequently is required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel and reach with hands and arms
• Employee is occasionally required to lift office products and supplies, up to 25 pounds

Travel and Hours:

• This position is full-time
• No travel is required with this position

Affirmative Action/EEO statement

It is the policy of Arbor to provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disabilities, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, or any other characteristic prohibited by state or federal law.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.