Molecular Laboratory Technician – Generalist
West Coast Wound & Skin Care · Austin, TX
Tailor my CV for this job — freeWest Coast Wound & Skin Care is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Molecular Laboratory Technician – Generalist to support daily operations within our molecular diagnostic laboratory. The ideal candidate will have experience in specimen processing, molecular testing, quality control, and laboratory documentation.The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for performing routine laboratory procedures, processing and preparing specimens, conducting molecular diagnostic testing, maintaining equipment, and ensuring accurate and timely results in accordance with established laboratory protocols, regulatory requirements, and quality standards.This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, adherence to laboratory safety standards, and the ability to work collaboratively with the laboratory supervisor and clinical team.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesSpecimen Processing & HandlingReceive, verify, accession, and process incoming laboratory specimensEnsure proper specimen identification, labeling, handling, and storagePrepare specimens for molecular testing in accordance with established proceduresIdentify and report specimens that do not meet laboratory acceptance criteriaMaintain specimen integrity throughout the testing processEnsure accurate specimen tracking and documentationMolecular Testing & Laboratory ProceduresPerform molecular diagnostic testing in accordance with laboratory-approved proceduresPrepare reagents, controls, and specimens for testingPerform nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection procedures as applicableOperate molecular diagnostic instruments and laboratory equipmentFollow established testing protocols and ensure accurate, reproducible resultsIdentify testing errors, instrument issues, or unexpected results and promptly notify the supervisorAssist with troubleshooting testing procedures and equipment issuesQuality Control & CompliancePerform and document quality control procedures as requiredMonitor quality control results and report out-of-range findingsFollow laboratory policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory requirementsMaintain accurate and complete laboratory recordsParticipate in quality assurance activities, proficiency testing, and competency assessments as assignedMaintain compliance with applicable CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and laboratory safety requirementsFollow established procedures for corrective actions and documentation of testing discrepanciesLaboratory Operations & MaintenanceMaintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environmentPerform routine cleaning and maintenance of laboratory equipmentMonitor inventory levels of laboratory supplies, reagents, and consumablesNotify the supervisor of supply shortages or equipment maintenance needsAssist with reagent preparation, inventory management, and expiration-date monitoringFollow proper procedures for biohazard waste disposal and infection controlAssist with laboratory workflow improvements and operational efficienciesDocumentation & ReportingComplete laboratory documentation accurately and in a timely mannerMaintain testing records, quality control logs, maintenance logs, and specimen tracking documentationEnsure testing results are entered or transmitted through the appropriate laboratory information systemCommunicate testing delays, specimen issues, or operational concerns to the supervisorMaintain patient confidentiality and safeguard protected health informationQualificationsEducationAssociate degree or bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field preferredRelevant laboratory training and experience may be considered in accordance with applicable regulatory requirementsExperiencePrevious experience in a clinical, molecular, or diagnostic laboratory preferredExperience with specimen processing, molecular testing, or laboratory instrumentation is highly desirableFamiliarity with laboratory quality control and documentation practicesExperience working in a CLIA-certified laboratory is preferredSkills & CompetenciesStrong attention to detail and accuracyAbility to follow written procedures and laboratory protocolsStrong organizational and time-management skillsAbility to manage multiple testing tasks and meet established turnaround timesStrong communication and teamwork skillsAbility to identify and report testing discrepanciesAbility to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA requirementsAbility to work independently while following supervisory directionPhysical RequirementsAbility to stand or sit for extended periodsAbility to perform repetitive laboratory tasksAbility to handle laboratory specimens, reagents, and equipment safelyAbility to lift and move laboratory supplies as neededAbility to wear required personal protective equipmentWork EnvironmentThis position is based in a clinical molecular laboratory in Austin, Texas. The employee will work with biological specimens, laboratory reagents, and diagnostic equipment and must adhere to all established laboratory safety and infection control protocols.Equal Employment OpportunityWest Coast Wound & Skin Care is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and business needs.Additional RequirementsThe employee must meet all applicable personnel qualification, training, competency, and testing requirements for the laboratory's CLIA certification and the complexity of testing performed. Duties may be modified based on laboratory operational needs and regulatory requirements.Pay: $30/hour Schedule: M - F, 830am-5pm