Medical Lab Scientist I

Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our mission is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier, more targeted interventions.

About the role

We are seeking a licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist to analyze specimens and maintain laboratory equipment in optimal operating condition. This role involves overseeing daily lab operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Verify specimens and perform clinical laboratory tests following standard methods and procedures with high accuracy and efficiency.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of laboratory methods and provide oversight of personnel and daily operations.
• Meet performance metrics and adhere to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), including maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
• Complete training and deadlines on time, and provide guidance to new Clinical Laboratory Operators and Medical Laboratory Scientists.
• Train on specialized instruments and protocols as a super user.
• Recognize, document, and escalate equipment malfunctions, protocol deviations, and analytical errors according to standard operating procedures.
• Assist with nonconformance reports and update departmental standard operating procedures and databases.
• Conduct independent continuous improvement projects.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory agency requirements through proper documentation (e.g., maintenance logs, bench worksheets).
• Perform quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of clinical data.
• Maintain equipment calibration, expiration dates, and inventory of supplies and materials.
• Communicate effectively with team members and other departments via email and other platforms.
• Provide feedback on daily schedules and tasks, offering suggestions for improvement.
• Assist teammates in completing daily tasks and facilitate workflow as needed.
• Act as a role model and mentor to others while maintaining professionalism.
• Handle Protected Health Information (PHI) in both paper and electronic forms, completing required HIPAA/PHI privacy and compliance training within the first 30 days of hire.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• BS/BA degree in Medical Technology, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Current MT/MLS/CLS/MB certification from ASCP, AMT, or AAB is preferred.
• Experience in Molecular Biology is preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, computer, troubleshooting, and pipetting skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, along with proficiency in word processing and data management.
• Ability to work well in a team and independently with minimal supervision.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Duties are typically performed in BSL-1 to 2 laboratories with potentially hazardous materials.
• May require standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• May require working weekends and overtime.
• Must be able to lift boxes or supplies up to 35 lbs.
• Duties require wearing safety goggles, gloves, and a laboratory coat.
• Frequent exposure to cold air due to accessing refrigeration and/or freezer units.
• Must be able to discern color visually or evaluate cellular morphology and pass applicable screening assessments.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Free genetic testing for employees and their immediate families, including fertility care benefits.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• 401k benefits and commuter benefits.
• Generous employee referral program.