DNA Laboratory Technician

Brief DNA Laboratory Technician Overview

Provide laboratory support to analysts in a forensic DNA laboratory setting.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform routine housekeeping duties such as the cleaning of laboratory areas, equipment and tools
• Organize laboratory working and storage areas
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness
• Prepare laboratory reagents and supplies in accordance with laboratory policy
• Monitor supply inventory and order supplies as needed
• Monitor and update temperature logs of various instruments
• Remove bio-hazardous waste to appropriate storage location
• Prepare blood and tissue samples from decedents for long term storage
• Assist DNA administrative staff with release of laboratory case reports and other administrative duties as assigned
• May participate in limited casework technical support role
• Auxiliary support in ensuring the laboratory remains in compliance with the ANAB accreditation standards and the FBI Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA testing laboratories
• Follow rigorously all Safety, Method Manual, and Quality Assurance / Quality Control protocols
• Other duties as assigned by the Forensic Genetics Laboratory Director

Requirements

• Education: Associates degree in a physical science such as Biology or Chemistry
• Experience: At least six (6) months work history in a laboratory environment
• Licensure: Must maintain a valid Texas Driver's License and ability to safely operate a motor vehicle
• Additional Requirements: Must provide a DNA sample to be maintained by the Forensic Genetics Laboratory for quality assurance purposes

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Computer literacy in the use of Microsoft Office applications
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Motivated and dedicated to completing tasks on schedule

Preferences

• Education: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university
• Experience: One (1) year of experience work history in a laboratory environment

General Information

• Position Type, and Typical Hours of Work: Full-Time | 40 hours per week
• May include night or evening work as assigned
• Work Environment and Location: Office/ Laboratory setting
• The job requires work with laboratory chemicals and various biological fluids – potential exposure to blood borne pathogens.
• Physical Demands: Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 lbs. and sit or stand for long periods. Must have visual acuity sufficient to perceive minute differences and details and to withstand the strain of continued close work. Must successfully pass at test for colorblindness. Must have manual dexterity sufficient to conduct laboratory tasks as determined by the Forensic Genetics Laboratory Director.

Employment Conditions

• Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
• Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.