Clinical Laboratory Scientist II

Location: Austin, TX

About the role

Under general supervision of the Enzyme & Immunoassay (EIA) Screening Group Manager, you will independently perform highly complex immunofluorometric testing including Immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), thyroxine (T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and galactose 1-phosphate uridyl transferase (Galt) analysis on high-volume neonatal screening specimens. You will utilize considerable working knowledge of all procedures to participate in maintaining analytic accuracy, perform specimen preparation and analysis, quality control, data evaluation, result entry, and equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary; all staff members will be required to work on Saturdays as part of a rotating schedule.

Responsibilities

• Performs highly complex immunofluorometric IRT, 17-OHP, T4, TSH, and Galt analysis on high-volume neonatal screening specimens. Completes all documentation, recognizes delays in testing or reporting, and notifies the supervisor immediately. Identifies problems with atypical test results and consults with upper-level personnel. (20%)
• Performs high-volume sampling (punching) of filter paper specimens for all newborn screening tests, standards, and controls for IRT, 17-OHP, T4, TSH, and Galt tests. Uses technical knowledge to determine specimen acceptability. (35%)
• Evaluates and interprets highly complex data. Processes reports associated with worklist duties using the Newborn Screening Laboratory Information computer system. Actively participates in quality control review, proficiency testing, equipment performance documentation, specimen workload tallies, and supply inventory. (25%)
• Performs routine and specialized preventive maintenance of highly complex equipment. Identifies equipment problems, performs troubleshooting, and makes routine adjustments as instructed. (15%)
• Promotes workflow through cooperative interaction, reassignment of duties, and teamwork with supervisors, co-workers, and internal and external customers. Complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Actively participates in disaster response, recovery, or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation as required. (5%)

Requirements

• Earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution; or earned associate’s degree in a chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution.
• Must work hours outside of 8-5, Saturdays, and holidays on a rotational schedule with the potential for shift differential pay.
• Must pass a functional color vision assessment to carry out essential job functions (administered at the time of the interview).
• Hepatitis risk is high; required Hepatitis B and Tetanus/Diphtheria immunizations are provided.
• Must wear provided personal protective equipment (including face shield, gloves, laboratory coat, safety glasses) as required by testing/safety procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in clinical laboratory testing, including procedures in newborn screening, clinical chemistry, high-volume workload, complex analysis, or complex laboratory instrumentation.

Skills

• Knowledge of general laboratory, clinical chemistry, quality control, immunofluorometric principles, techniques, and terminology.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety, including sample-handling techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to use various laboratory equipment associated with the work area.
• Ability to use a computer.
• Ability to interact effectively with staff and work in harmony with team members.
• Ability to work as part of a team adhering to structured deadlines for high-volume, critical laboratory procedures.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.
• Ability to keep accurate, detailed records.
• Ability to use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material.
• Ability to prioritize and organize detailed tasks to maintain required screening timeframes.
• Ability to complete routine tasks without supervision.
• Ability to maintain work area instruments and automated testing equipment.
• Ability to recognize work area problems.
• Ability to prepare diagnostic (analytical) reagents and/or controls accurately.
• Skill in manipulating standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety.

Pay

Salary range: $4,106.30 - $4,927.56 per month.

Schedule

• Full-time, regular position.
• Shift: Regular Weekend Day (rotating Saturdays and holidays required).
• Standard working hours may be outside of 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
• Potential for shift differential pay.

Benefits

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). For more details, visit the DSHS Careers Page.