Lab Scientist/Extraction Specialist

JOB OVERVIEW

The Extraction Specialist is responsible for specimen accessioning, preparation, and extraction utilizing liquid-handling instruments and automated solid phase extraction methods in a high-throughput production laboratory environment where work is assessed based on speed, accuracy, quantity, and overall quality. This position requires a high level of attention to detail, where accuracy and precision are essential to ensure the highest quality standards are maintained.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Accession specimens (urine, oral fluid, plasma, and PCR) into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) by entering patient data, specimen information, medication lists, ordered tests, and point-of-care results into the LIS – manual data entry may be required for some specimens
• Ensure specimen integrity by verifying that specimens are labeled appropriately and that identifying information on the specimen matches identifying information on accompanying documentation and/or electronic orders
• Correctly identify specimens that do not meet criteria for testing and specimens that need to be placed on hold for missing information
• Pipet (aliquot) accessioned urine specimens into appropriate test tubes to prepare for testing and storage
• Prepare urine and oral fluid specimens for extraction and testing using established standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Prepare calibrators and quality controls for extraction
• Perform required weekly, monthly, and as needed maintenance on instruments and analyzers, including automated liquid handlers and solid phase extraction (SPE) robots; troubleshoot issues as needed
• Accurately aliquot specimens and controls into labeled 96-well plates and test tubes using single-channel, multi-channel, and variable-volume pipettes or use liquid-handling instruments
• Document steps performed in the process to track completion times, temperatures, and instruments used per CLIA and CAP regulations; notify appropriate personnel of any issues throughout the extraction process
• Prepare solutions for manual and automated solid phase extraction – requires performing calculations related to basic chemistry and properly calibrate and use a pH meter when needed
• Perform automated solid phase extractions on urine and oral fluid specimens utilizing lab instruments
• Learn the purpose of each step in the extraction process to better understand the overall process and become effective at troubleshooting
• Cross-train and learn the basics of other roles and instruments in the Initial Testing team, such as enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to be able to assist with instrument maintenance and operation as needed
• Document room temperature, humidity levels, reagents, and controls per CLIA and CAP regulations
• Stock and refill specimens, reagents, inventory, and supplies for lab operations throughout the day
• Dispose of urine and oral fluid specimens that have reached their retention date
• Communicate effectively with other departments about issues regarding specimen processing
• Complete general lab tasks as needed
• Aid in training and any special projects (AMR studies, validations, proficiency testing, CAP inspections, etc.) that arise throughout the year
• Meet established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for speed, accuracy, quantity, and overall quality
• Other duties as assigned

DIRECT REPORTS

• None

This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Regular and prompt attendance
• Ability to perform work following established SOPs and ensuring the highest quality standards are maintained
• Must be able to meet established production benchmarks in terms of quality, volume, timeliness, and adherence to established policies
• Requires ability to effectively troubleshoot process and instrument issues using critical, strategic, and analytical thinking
• Ability to listen, learn, and promote accountability and responsibility related to all sample preparation and extraction processes
• Proficient in use of single-channel and multi-channel pipettes
• Proficient in ability to operate laboratory instrumentation and computers with scientific software applications
• Must be able and willing to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toxicology, Biochemistry, Biology, Forensic Science, or a similar analytical science field; or Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) with appropriate national certification and 3 years of experience
• Minimum of 1 year of data entry experience required
• Preference for candidates with familiarity with pipetting, extractions, and use of 96-well plates
• Preference for candidates with experience working with bodily fluids, such as urine and oral fluid

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
• Skill in data entry with minimal errors
• Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines
• Ability to function in a team environment and promote collaboration
• Must be able to work under limited supervision where the work assignments are subject to established procedures, techniques, and well-defined policies
• Skill with completing assignments accurately, and with attention to detail

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work will be performed in a laboratory environment and exposes the incumbent to normal laboratory hazards and chemicals, including biohazard materials
• Work in varying degrees of temperature (heated or air conditioned)
• First entry of specimens requires sitting/standing for up to 4 hours continuously
• Position requires sitting, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.