Molecular Team Lead

Actual Job Title : Molecular Team Lead

Work Schedule : Monday - Friday 7 : 00am - 3 : 30pm, Every other weekend

Summary :

The Molecular Team Lead is a leader in the diagnostic lab, blending exceptional technical expertise with leadership and communication skills. This role is essential for mentoring and training junior team members, upholding the highest standards for molecular PCR results, resolving complex issues, overseeing lab operations, and driving efficiency and cost-effective testing. This role works closely with Supervisors, Managers, and Medical teams to align lab operations with organizational goals.

The Molecular Team Lead position requires a complete understanding of all client Molecular processes including all safety practices, quality control, and testing procedures from set-up to reporting though the laboratory information system. The Team Lead will lead the molecular team through the daily workflow and must be a highly skilled, effective communicator with strong leadership abilities including the ability to handle complex problem-solving tasks including triaging samples and delegation of work. Additionally, the Team Lead trains colleagues, performs advanced quality control tasks, and manages complex reporting and identification processes.

This role includes validation of new multiplex PCR assays lead by a Medical team member. Construction of of primer, probes and analysis of the limit of detection with the assistance of a Medical team member will be required. The Team Lead will analyze the validation work and ongoing trending of current diagnostic multiplex assays.

Responsibilities :

" Responsible for leading the Molecular team in strict adherence to all Laboratory & client safety procedures and protocols.

" Oversee day-to-day lab operations, including inventory management, equipment maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols.

" Ensure all team members participate fully in the implementation of the laboratory and client Quality Control and Assurance protocols.

" Maintain rigorous quality control standards, reviewing and implementing QC plans to ensure accuracy and reliability in lab results. For Molecular, this involves daily, weekly and monthly charting of control results to identify deviations in assay performance.

" Train and mentor team colleagues in the laboratory standard operating procedures for Molecular Diagnostics and reporting for all Molecular tests.

" Understand and interpret guidelines for PCR analysis and results and assist team members with difficult cases.

" Understand and utilize the laboratory information system (LIS) including for accessioning, requisition maintenance, test ordering and batch reporting.

" Perform all reporting of results and manager review in LIS.

" Engage with Medical colleagues to resolve customer service issues, utilizing Salesforce as needed.

" Ensure the operation and maintenance of all molecular instruments and equipment.

" Delegate tasks as necessary to maintain a smooth and seamless workflow, even under the pressure of a high-volume testing work environment.

" Engage with Medical Leadership to improve molecular processes and eliminate waste while maintaining quality.

" Perform literature reviews and additional training to stay current in molecular topics including assay development, , emerging infectious diseases, and updates to specific molecular techniques.

" Understand and ensure team compliance to all EH&S biosafety requirements of the lab.

" Address and resolve complex issues related to samples, instruments, and customer complaints, ensuring minimal disruption to lab operations. Ensures Corrective Actions are being initiated and resolved as problems occur.

Education and Experience :

" BA / BS in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology or a related science field with 3+ years of experience

Molecular Only

" 3-5 years of experience conducting PCR testing in a high-volume, high-throughput laboratory. Molecular diagnostics experience required.

" Previous work in a BioSafety Level 2 laboratory required

" DNA extraction experience required including use of Kingfisher magnetic particle separator

" Real-time PCR experience required including use of Quant Studio PCR platform

Experience validating PCR assays required

Technical Skills :

" Proficiency in Microsoft Platforms (Teams, Outlook, Word etc.)

" Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

" Verbal and written communication skills.

" Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate with colleagues.

" Indirect leadership skills and ability to influence others

" Ability to work independently and follow instructions accurately.

" Advanced in all microbiology culture / molecular techniques including staining techniques, biochemical testing, media requirements, and standard operating procedures for all tests offered.

" Advanced understanding of culture / PCR assay interpretation guidelines for reporting.

" Knowledge of Federal / State reportable organisms.

" Mentorship and Training

" Problem-Solving

" Conflict Resolution

" Operational Management

" Decision Making

" Innovation

" Quality Control planning

Physical Requirements :

" Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

" Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, crouch

" Ability to sit or stand for extended periods