Technical Specialist - Laboratory

Fairview is seeking a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) to serve as a Cell Therapy Technical Specialist focused on the Translational Area. The Cell Therapy Laboratory is located on the University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus and specializes in cell and tissue manufacturing of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and somatic cell therapies derived from bone marrow, peripheral blood, umbilical cord blood, and other tissues for reconstitution and somatic cellular treatments.

Responsibilities

• Translational Development & Clinical Production: Coordinate product development, validation plans, and assay development. Oversee QC testing (flow cytometry, bioburden, cell enumeration, viability, and potency), documentation (batch records/SOPs), vendor/equipment qualifications, project timelines, and training.
• Technical Resource: Provide guidance, training, and troubleshooting support to Cell Therapy staff.
• Daily Workflow Management: Direct daily tasks, assign workloads, adjust schedules to meet demands, and provide input on performance appraisals.
• Data & Regulatory Quality: Ensure accurate and timely data entry; investigate deviations; and provide input on regulatory and project-specific reports.
• Equipment: Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, coordinate manufacturer services, and qualify new equipment.

Key Competencies

• Technical Expertise: Knowledge of cell therapy theories, methodologies, and instrumentation with strong critical-thinking skills. Proficient in using various computer systems and applications (databases, Word, Excel, Access, etc.).
• Communication & Leadership: Clear written and oral communication skills, ability to promote teamwork internally and across departments, and support continual learning of self and coworkers.
• Problem Solving & Adaptability: Strong project management abilities, stress tolerance, and a proactive approach to continuous process improvement.

Requirements

• Baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited college/university in a related laboratory field, including the related lab practicum or equivalent routes meeting qualifications as either a general supervisor for high complexity testing or a technical consultant for moderate complexity testing (as specified in CLIA ’88). Specific pathways include:
  • Bachelor of Science in chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology (transcript required).
  • B.S./B.A. with 16 semester hours in biology (including one semester in microbiology) and 16 semester hours in chemistry (including one semester in organic or biochemistry) meeting qualifications as a general supervisor for high complexity testing (transcript required).
  • Combination of a 50-week U.S. military medical laboratory training course and a Baccalaureate degree with 16 semester hours in biology (including one semester in microbiology) and 16 semester hours in chemistry (including one semester in organic or biochemistry) (transcript required).
  • Master of Science in molecular biology, biotechnology, chemistry, biology, cytology, immunology, immunohematology, microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or a related field (transcript required).
• Laboratory experience requirements:
  • 1 year of laboratory training or experience in high complexity testing for CLIA General Supervisor roles (for candidates with a baccalaureate or higher degree in a relevant field).
  • 1 year of laboratory training or experience in moderate complexity testing for CLIA Technical Consultant roles (for candidates with a baccalaureate or higher degree in a relevant field).
  • 2 years of laboratory training or experience in high complexity testing for candidates qualifying by baccalaureate degree and semester hours.
• Possess or be eligible to receive appropriate Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) approved laboratory certification (e.g., ASCP, ASCPi, AMT, AAB, or HEW Medical Technologist certification in relevant specialties).

Preferred Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in area of specialty or subspecialty.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick and Safe Time.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Retirement plans.
• Early access to earned wages.

For additional information, visit Fairview Benefits.

Pay

The posted pay range is for a 40-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). The actual rate of pay offered may depend on factors such as FTE, skills, knowledge, relevant education, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, the organization values pay equity and considers internal equity when making offers. Hiring at the maximum of the range is not typical. If eligible, a sign-on bonus may be offered based on the approved program at the time of the offer.