Clinical Lab Scientist (Contract)

The Position: 

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) is responsible for performing high complexity clinical laboratory testing on patient specimens, reviewing and reporting patient results, performing quality control and quality assurance activities, and complying with all applicable local, state and federal laboratory, quality, and safety requirements. The high complexity nature of the work requires excellent attention to detail, effective written and verbal communication skills, the ability to multitask and be flexible with tasks and schedules, and the ability to work independently and effectively in a team environment. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

The main duties and responsibilities of the Clinical Laboratory Scientist include the following, but not limited to: 

• Perform molecular genetic testing on clinical specimens
• Follow the laboratory's standard operating procedures for specimen handling, processing, test analyses, and recording of test results
• Perform, review and document laboratory quality control procedures in accordance with the Quality Assurance Program
• Complete assigned laboratory and non-laboratory tasks
• Prepare reagents required for laboratory testing
• Engage in training
• Perform proficiency testing for the clinical tests
• Assist in research and validation activities
• Independently identify and troubleshoot basic issues that could potentially adversely affect test performance
• Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications
• Follow the laboratory’s standard operating procedures for quality and environmental health and safety and report all concerns of test quality and/or safety to the Lab Supervisor or Safety Officer
• Ensure all work is performed in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations and participate in all regulatory inspections
• Work cooperatively in a team environment support fellow laboratory and management staff
• Perform any other site/lab specific duties as assigned 

Who You Are: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE 

• Active California Department of Public Health Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license or Clinical Genetic Molecular Biology Scientist (CGMBS) license (no exceptions)
• Experience in high complexity clinical laboratory testing, preferably in molecular diagnostics
• Performance of molecular testing (PCR, Microarray, Sanger/NGS sequencing) a plus
• Must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Must be detail-oriented and comfortable with technology
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong computer skills across diverse platforms
• Excellent interpersonal communication and team player attitude
• Ability to adapt to change and a rapid work pace
• Maintains continuing education units required by California Department of Health Services and New York State Department of Health. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Repetitive movement of hands, arms and leg, fingers (typing and/or writing)
• Gripping/grasping
• Reaching above/below shoulder level
• Sitting, with occasional walking, standing, stooping and moving about
• Exposure to general office environment conditions
• Occasionally required to lift up to 25 pounds 

Contract Length: 12 months

Location: This is an onsite position based in our San Diego, CA office. 

Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday, 5:00am - 1:30pm.