PCR Supervisor (PGx Testing)

About the Role

The PCR Supervisor leads the team of PCR Specialists and oversees daily operations in the Microbiology department, including testing patient specimens for pharmacogenetics (PGx) test orders using a MALDI-TOF instrument platform. This role ensures accurate and timely patient lab reports, compliance with regulations, proper documentation, and participation in process improvement and new method development.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the Microbiology department
• Ensure adherence to BSL-2 safety standards, CAP, CLIA, NYS standards, and Ethos Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Ensure accurate testing of patient specimens and timely release of lab reports
• Oversee instrument and equipment maintenance, scheduling vendor services as needed
• Maintain records of certifications, repairs, and maintenance for lab instruments and equipment
• Provide direct leadership for the team of PCR Specialists, including holding weekly department meetings and monthly KPI meetings
• Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for PCR Specialists and department metrics (turnaround time, accuracy, throughput, expenses, etc.)
• Track and maintain data and instrument performance indicators on a daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual basis
• Participate in interdepartmental meetings to share metrics, challenges, and new processes
• Review and/or create SOPs and controlled documents within the Microbiology department
• Develop and improve PCR processes to increase efficiency and productivity while minimizing downtime
• Identify, troubleshoot, and analyze issues related to instrument operation, repairs, calibrations, quality controls, workflow, and patient data
• Document incidents and accidents, perform remedial training, and escalate issues as needed
• Interview, hire, onboard, and train new employees; complete competency assessments initially, after 6 months, and annually
• Become fully trained in PCR Specialist responsibilities to support the team during high-volume periods or absences
• Exemplify and encourage positive interactions to inspire collaboration and teamwork
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Deep knowledge of pharmacogenetics (PGx) testing and PCR processes, instrumentation, and workflows
• Proficient in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting MALDI-TOF instruments, extraction equipment, liquid handlers, thermal cyclers, and other lab instruments
• Demonstrated experience creating, revising, and operating from SOPs
• Ability to lead by example and foster time management, conscientiousness, dedication, and accountability
• Strong communication skills and ability to promote accountability and responsibility
• Highest level of confidentiality and adherence to HIPAA regulations
• Ability to follow established protocols and use judgment in problem-solving
• Willingness to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (or higher) in Chemistry, Pharmacology, Biology, Medical or Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or similar analytical science field
• Minimum of 4 years of relevant experience, including:
  • At least 2 years in high-complexity testing
  • At least 1 year in molecular pathology methods
• Experience performing pharmacogenetics (PGx) testing
• Experience supervising a laboratory department conducting PGx testing
• Preference for candidates with:
  • Experience operating MALDI-TOF instruments
  • Experience developing or optimizing PCR processes
  • Experience in a high-throughput production laboratory
  • Experience with CLIA, COLA, CAP, and/or NYS standards

Skills

• Critical thinking and problem-solving with a high level of attention to detail
• Leadership qualities and ability to supervise employees
• Excellent communication (oral and written), time management, scheduling, documentation, and organizational skills
• Flexibility, innovation, and self-motivation
• Ability to motivate, coach, and mentor employees for high performance
• Ability to delegate and accomplish goals through others
• Experience with laboratory software

Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in a laboratory environment with exposure to normal laboratory hazards and chemicals, including biohazard materials
• Work in varying degrees of temperature (heated or air-conditioned)
• Position requires sitting, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers
• Requires talking, hearing, and seeing

Direct Reports

PCR Specialist(s)