Molecular Laboratory Technician – Generalist

West 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 & Responsibilities

Specimen Processing & Handling

• Receive, verify, accession, and process incoming laboratory specimens.
• Ensure proper specimen identification, labeling, handling, and storage.
• Prepare specimens for molecular testing in accordance with established procedures.
• Identify and report specimens that do not meet laboratory acceptance criteria.
• Maintain specimen integrity throughout the testing process.
• Ensure accurate specimen tracking and documentation.

Molecular Testing & Laboratory Procedures

• Perform molecular diagnostic testing in accordance with laboratory-approved procedures.
• Prepare reagents, controls, and specimens for testing.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection procedures as applicable.
• Operate molecular diagnostic instruments and laboratory equipment.
• Follow established testing protocols and ensure accurate, reproducible results.
• Identify testing errors, instrument issues, or unexpected results and promptly notify the supervisor.
• Assist with troubleshooting testing procedures and equipment issues.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Perform and document quality control procedures as required.
• Monitor quality control results and report out-of-range findings.
• Follow laboratory policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records.
• Participate in quality assurance activities, proficiency testing, and competency assessments as assigned.
• Maintain compliance with applicable CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and laboratory safety requirements.
• Follow established procedures for corrective actions and documentation of testing discrepancies.

Laboratory Operations & Maintenance

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Monitor inventory levels of laboratory supplies, reagents, and consumables.
• Notify the supervisor of supply shortages or equipment maintenance needs.
• Assist with reagent preparation, inventory management, and expiration-date monitoring.
• Follow proper procedures for biohazard waste disposal and infection control.
• Assist with laboratory workflow improvements and operational efficiencies.

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete laboratory documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintain testing records, quality control logs, maintenance logs, and specimen tracking documentation.
• Ensure testing results are entered or transmitted through the appropriate laboratory information system.
• Communicate testing delays, specimen issues, or operational concerns to the supervisor.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and safeguard protected health information.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate degree or bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field preferred.
• Relevant laboratory training and experience may be considered in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.

Experience

• Previous experience in a clinical, molecular, or diagnostic laboratory preferred.
• Experience with specimen processing, molecular testing, or laboratory instrumentation is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with laboratory quality control and documentation practices.
• Experience working in a CLIA-certified laboratory is preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to follow written procedures and laboratory protocols.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple testing tasks and meet established turnaround times.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to identify and report testing discrepancies.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA requirements.
• Ability to work independently while following supervisory direction.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive laboratory tasks.
• Ability to handle laboratory specimens, reagents, and equipment safely.
• Ability to lift and move laboratory supplies as needed.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.

Work Environment

This 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 Opportunity

West Coast Wound & Skin Care is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and business needs.

Additional Requirements

The 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