Molecular Genetics Technician

About the Role

Under immediate supervision, work rotations are performed in all areas of a full-service genetic laboratory, specializing in Molecular Genetics. This includes hands-on experience with a variety of molecular biology techniques and laboratory procedures.

Responsibilities

• Patient Procedures and Activities:
  • Follow universal guidelines for handling body fluids.
  • Clean and fill specimen jars with solutions.
  • Perform quality assurance procedures.
  • Sort, number, and label specimens in specified sequences.
  • Centrifuge and separate specimens, then decant serum.
  • Check media solutions for quality standards.
  • Develop film and make prints.
  • Examine reagents for contamination, impurities, or instability.
  • Reject unsatisfactory specimens.
  • Scan and examine specimens.
  • Set up specimen tests, controls, and interpretation.
  • Dispose of laboratory specimens and waste material properly.
  • Operate autoclaves, drying ovens, or dishwashers.
  • Wash laboratory glassware and instruments.
  • Assign identification numbers to specimens.
  • Pick up and deliver blood and other specimens to/from the laboratory.
  • Prepare and pack samples for shipment to outside laboratories.
  • Receive, sort, and transport laboratory specimens.
• Technical:
  • Perform a variety of Molecular Biology techniques, including:
    • DNA and RNA extraction (manual and automatic),
    • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR),
    • Reverse Transcriptase PCR,
    • Southern Blotting,
    • Agarose gel electrophoresis,
    • Restriction digest,
    • Capillary Electrophoresis,
    • Sanger Sequencing,
    • Probe Hybridization,
    • Bead Capture technology,
    • Microarray technology, and more.
  • Batch received specimens and perform nucleic acid extractions.
  • Prepare agarose gels and set up all Molecular Biology reactions.
  • Operate automated genetic testing instruments.
  • Perform quality assurance checks and collect/report quality indicator data.
  • Evaluate test results, prepare final reports, and release reviewed reports into the LIS system.
• Record Patient Information:
  • Complete forms and records.
  • Look up and report test results as requested.
  • Prepare lab worksheets.
  • Report negative/positive specimens.
• Equipment and Instruments:
  • Load paper and tape into computer printers.
  • Prepare and process packs, supplies, equipment, and instruments.
  • Clean and sterilize instruments, supplies, and equipment.
• Materials and Supplies:
  • Dispose of used syringes and contaminated materials.
  • Inventory equipment and supplies.
  • Maintain solutions, chemicals, and automatic equipment.
  • Replenish supplies and equipment.
• Administrative and Other:
  • Orient and train new or less experienced personnel.
  • Attend conferences, meetings, and in-service training programs.
  • Maintain current licensure/certification and proficiency in clinical skills.
  • Answer telephone calls and take messages.
• Assume other activities and responsibilities from time to time as directed.

Requirements

• Experience:
  • Minimum one year of experience as a CLSp MB licensed personnel (waived for current KP Coalition employees per the National Agreement).
• Education:
  • Bachelor of Science in Genetics, Biology, or a related field.
• License, Certification, Registration:
  • Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist License (California).

Preferred Qualifications

• ASCP certification in Molecular Genetics (CLSp MB).
• Master of Science degree in Genetics or a related field.
• Ability to work in a complex environment with strong communication and interpretation skills.
• Computer proficiency in FileMaker Pro, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint applications.

Schedule

• Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
• Shift: Day
• Workdays: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
• Working Hours Start: 11:30 AM
• Working Hours End: 08:00 PM
• Job Schedule: Full-time
• Worker Location: Onsite

Pay

The pay range for this role is $64.36 - $71.29 per hour. Actual base pay is determined at offer and will be based on labor market data, internal alignment, and a candidate's years of relevant work experience, education, certifications, skills, and geographic location.