The microbiology laboratory technician is responsible for sample intake, sample preparation and analysis of samples for indicator organisms and pathogens. Applying aseptic techniques in daily workload preparation of quality controls, received specimens and all reagents necessary for microbial laboratory experiments. Instrument operation and data analysis interpretation of microbiology testing for all indicator organisms and pathogens including, but is not limited to the following: raw data review and sample interpretation, verifying that all quality control and calibration data is within acceptable range, identifying samples needing reanalysis, troubleshooting problems as they arise, loading daily worklists for received specimens, and any other tasks deemed necessary. Must be cognizant of the expectant turn around goals and strive to reach those goals with minimal error. General knowledge and training in all areas of the laboratory operation will be required.
- Maintain accurate records of lot numbers, received date, in-use dates, out-of-use dates for all media, reagents, and consumables needed for daily microbiological testing
- Inventory and report expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
- Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, and trash disposal
- Perform quality control monitoring by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
- Independently pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with policies/procedures and customer requirements
- Maintain laboratory condition, to include equipment, supplies, quality assurance programs, and accurate records throughout all procedures
- Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
- Share information in an open, and timely manner
- Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation
- Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area
- Responsible for the completion of required training
- All other duties as assigned
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
- Must follow all SOP and GLP directives
- Must maintain controlled laboratory conditions.
- Sample DNA extraction and purification for Real-Time PCR (qPCR) instrument analysis
- Sample preparation, incubation, and identification of microbiological cultures
- Ability to multi-task with ease
- Strong attention to detail
- Be responsible for the disposal of waste from sample extraction procedures
- Working knowledge and application of sample intake and processing procedures
- Documentation of internal chain of custody and maintaining specimen integrity
- Proficient with all quality control results
- Help and guide in the training of new employees
- Ability to troubleshoot problems as they arise in a calm and efficient manner
- Communicate to managerial staff any work-related incident or issues
- Excellent documentation practices
- Safe handling of chemicals
- Be open to all changes in the continuously evolving laboratory
- Assisting as needed to ensure acceptable turnaround time is achieved in all areas of the laboratory
- Be able to adjust days/shifts as needed
Competencies
- Communication proficiency
- Time management
- Collaboration skills
- Personal effectiveness/credibility
- Flexibility
- Technical capacity
- Stress management/composure
- Positive attitude
- Ability to maintain attention to detail with good organizational skills
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibility
Work Environment
This position operates in a professional office and laboratory environment. This role routinely has direct contact with caustic chemicals. Routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets.
Position Type
Full-Time
Education and Experience
- Bachelor of Science degree in an appropriate course of study, required.
- Six months analytical laboratory experience, required.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Location:
- Chattanooga, TN 37416 (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Chattanooga, TN 37416 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Chattanooga, TN 37416: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person