Clinical Laboratory Technologist (NYS)

Job Description

About the role

We are looking for a highly motivated, independent but team-oriented Clinical Laboratory Technologist to join our team as a full-time employee. As a CLT, you will be responsible for patient testing in infectious diseases (bacteriology, virology, mycology, and parasitology) in our New York State Department of Health CLIA/CLEP clinical laboratory. Your expertise will contribute to the delivery of high-complexity testing services related to molecular technologies, clinical microbiology, molecular virology, and mycology. Our clinical laboratory incorporates NGS and PCR-based processes, LDT applications, and specialized techniques to perform cutting-edge tests in the areas of infectious diseases. This position will allow the Clinical Laboratory Technologist to perform advanced, molecular-based skillsets, interpret complex data, and effectively troubleshoot while adhering to CLIA guidelines.

Under general supervision and according to established policies and procedures, the successful candidate performs various clinical laboratory tests in one or more sections of the Laboratory Department to obtain data for use in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Analyzes and interprets test results and ensures accuracy. Repeats tests as necessary, especially those yielding abnormal or atypical results, and notifies appropriate personnel of such results.

As the Clinical Laboratory Technologist, you will play a key role in the operation of the clinical laboratory. You will report to the Clinical Laboratory Supervising Technologist and work closely with the Chief Medical Officer, Chief Scientific Officer, and the Clinical Laboratory Director to ensure high-quality patient testing using NGS and PCR-based technologies and to maintain CLIA certification.

This is a full-time, on-site role requiring 40 hours per week at the Biotia laboratory in Long Island City, New York. During the initial training period, this role follows standard daytime hours (9:00 AM–5:00 PM). Once training is complete, the technologist may choose either a 6:00 AM–2:00 PM or 7:00 AM–3:00 PM shift, based on personal preference.

What you'll do

• Apply a foundational knowledge of methods and the clinical relevance of tests performed in your area of responsibility.
• Handle and process clinical samples such as urine, vaginal swab, stool, blood, sterile fluids (CSF, synovial fluid), and respiratory specimens related to infectious diseases (urogenital, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and other pathogens).
• Perform a variety of clinical laboratory procedures, including accessioning, biobanking, nucleic acid extraction and quantification, PCR, and next-generation sequencing, pursuant to established protocols.
• Perform both manual and automated techniques to accomplish high-volume sample processing.
• Operate complex equipment and computer programs related to instrumentation and the LIS system.
• Provide detailed, accurate, and legible documentation associated with test results, maintenance records, and quality control.
• Assist with the validation of new assays.
• Perform all preventive maintenance on schedule in accordance with laboratory procedure.
• Recognize abnormal instrument or test performance and withhold patient results until the situation is corrected.
• Perform basic troubleshooting procedures and seek assistance when necessary.
• Monitor reagent and supply inventory and inform the supervisor of needs.
• Verify and process specimens in an organized and timely manner, and organize work so that others can easily collaborate and take over in your absence.
• Perform Quality Control according to laboratory protocol, document QC and corrective action, and follow laboratory procedure when QC fails.
• Participate in equipment maintenance and proficiency testing procedures.
• Apply knowledge of test interrelationships to ensure results are accurate.
• Call and record critical values to the designated contact person in the critical value book, and follow computer downtime procedures when the LIS is not operational.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with team members, demonstrate proper telephone techniques and etiquette, and demonstrate procedures effectively to coworkers.
• Analyze problems to determine the cause and find solutions, following a logical process and using all available resources, including manuals and manufacturers' technical services.
• Maintain a consistent pattern of attendance, report to your assigned area on time for your scheduled shift, follow call-in procedures when sick, late, or absent, and complete all laboratory requirements at the designated time (such as annual assessments and educational requirements).
• Conform to policies regarding the confidentiality of information.
• Complete other laboratory tasks as assigned.

What you bring

• Bachelor's degree in the sciences or a related field with 4 years of experience in a clinical laboratory setting, OR a Master's degree in the sciences or a related field with 2 years of experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Licensed as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist in New York State.
• Knowledge of Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA).
• Basic knowledge of computer fundamentals and experience with laboratory information systems.
• Technical skills necessary to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot instrumentation and to perform routine and complex testing.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations.
• Able and willing to commit to providing adequate hours on site at the current laboratory location, commensurate with the laboratory workload, scope and complexity of test procedures, qualifications of on-site personnel, and availability of alternate monitoring and communication capabilities.

Nice to have

• Supervisory experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Training in infectious diseases (bacteriology, virology, parasitology, and mycology) and molecular diagnostics.

Compensation and benefits

Salary is commensurate with experience within a target range of $90,000–$120,000 per year, plus stock options. This is a full-time, on-site position and includes a comprehensive benefits package.

Equal opportunity

Biotia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building a team that reflects the patients and communities we serve. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants and employees with disabilities.

About Biotia

Biotia is a health tech company advancing infectious disease diagnostics for challenging infections. We pair clinical metagenomics and artificial intelligence to develop diagnostic and software solutions for patients, clinicians, health systems, and researchers working at the front line of infectious disease.