Molecular Lab Tech 3
The Molecular Lab Tech 3 acts as a subject matter expert within the department. This position significantly contributes to the completion of the daily workflow and requires an advanced understanding of all ZRL Molecular processes including all safety practices, quality control plans, and testing procedures from set-up to reporting. This role requires a significant understanding of the laboratory information system (LIS) as it pertains to veterinary infectious disease molecular testing, reporting and specimen management. The Molecular Lab Tech 3 is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all molecular instruments and equipment. Additionally, the Molecular Lab Tech 3 trains colleagues, performs advanced quality control tasks, and completes complex reporting and identification / analyzation processes.
This role includes validation of new multiplex PCR assays lead by a Medical team member. Construction of primer, probes and analysis of the limit of detection with the assistance of a Medical team member will be required. The Molecular Lab Tech 3 will analyze the validation work and ongoing trending of current diagnostic multiplex assays with the assistance of a Medical and Scientific Leadership team member.
Job Duties
- As a SME for the department, perform and train staff on all Molecular tests, including complex testing.
- Understand and follow all ZRL safety procedures and protocols and ensure team members adhere to these policies as well.
- Participate and lead others in the implementation of the laboratory and ZRL Quality Control plans.
- Assist in training team colleagues in the laboratory standard operating procedures for all Molecular PCR assays.
- Understand and interpret guidelines for PCR 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.
- Capable of performing all reporting of results and manager review in LIS.
- Handle problem samples and Salesforce tickets, resolving customer complaints, and referrals for medical consults.
- Engage with Medical to resolve customer issues utilizing Salesforce as needed.
- Engage with Medical Leadership to improve molecular processes, performance and to resolve customer service issues.
- Maintain all laboratory instruments including maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Perform literature reviews to stay current in molecular topics including techniques as well as infectious diseases of interest to the veterinary diagnostic field.
- Understand and ensure team compliance to all EH&S biosafety requirements of the lab.
- Analyze all PCR results to evaluate assay performance.
- Prepare and validate new lots of primers / probes, working stock solutions and pcr control batches.
- Maintain and oversee inventory and ordering of laboratory reagents and consumables.
- Train and mentor team colleagues in the laboratory standard operating procedures for Molecular Diagnostics and reporting for all Molecular tests.
- Perform literature reviews and additional training to stay current in molecular topics including assay development, emerging infectious diseases, and updates to specific molecular techniques.
Education and Experience
BA / BS in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology or a related science field with 3+ years of experience3 to 5 years of experience conducting PCR testing in a high-volume, high-throughput laboratory. Molecular diagnostics experience requiredPrevious work in a BioSafety Level 2 laboratory requiredDNA extraction experience required including use of Kingfisher magnetic particle separatorReal-time PCR experience required including use of Quant Studio PCR platformExperience validating PCR assays preferredTechnical Skills Requirements
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.Ability to work independently and follow instructions accurately.Advanced in all molecular techniques.Advanced understanding of PCR assay interpretation guidelines for reporting.Knowledge of Federal / State reportable organisms.Quality Control planningPhysical Position Requirements
Ability to lift up to 50 poundsAbility to bend, kneel, stoop, crouchAbility to sit or stand for extended periodsAbout Zoetis
At Zoetis , our purpose is to nurture the world and humankind by advancing care for animals. As a Fortune 500 company and the world leader in animal health, we discover, develop, manufacture and commercialize vaccines, medicines, diagnostics and other technologies for companion animals and livestock. We know our people drive our success. Our award-winning culture, built around our Core Beliefs, focuses on our colleagues' careers, connection and support. We offer competitive healthcare and retirement savings benefits, along with an array of benefits, policies and programs to support employee well-being in every sense, from health and financial wellness to family and lifestyle resources.
Global Job Applicant Privacy Notice