Description

JOB OVERVIEW

The Extraction Specialist is responsible for specimen accessioning, preparation, and extraction utilizing liquid-handling instruments and automated solid phase extraction methods in a high-throughput production laboratory environment where work is assessed based on speed, accuracy, quantity, and overall quality. This position requires a high level of attention to detail, where accuracy and precision are essential to ensure the highest quality standards are maintained.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Accession specimens (urine, oral fluid, plasma, and PCR) into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) by entering patient data, specimen information, medication lists, ordered tests, and point-of-care results into the LIS – manual data entry may be required for some specimens
Ensure specimen integrity by verifying that specimens are labeled appropriately and that identifying information on the specimen matches identifying information on accompanying documentation and/or electronic orders
Correctly identify specimens that do not meet criteria for testing and specimens that need to be placed on hold for missing information
Pipet (aliquot) accessioned urine specimens into appropriate test tubes to prepare for testing and storage
Prepare urine and oral fluid specimens for extraction and testing using established standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Prepare calibrators and quality controls for extraction
Perform required weekly, monthly, and as needed maintenance on instruments and analyzers, including automated liquid handlers and solid phase extraction (SPE) robots; troubleshoot issues as needed
Accurately aliquot specimens and controls into labeled 96-well plates and test tubes using single-channel, multi-channel, and variable-volume pipettes or use liquid-handling instruments
Document steps performed in the process to track completion times, temperatures, and instruments used per CLIA and CAP regulations; notify appropriate personnel of any issues throughout the extraction process
Prepare solutions for manual and automated solid phase extraction – requires performing calculations related to basic chemistry and properly calibrate and use a pH meter when needed
Perform automated solid phase extractions on urine and oral fluid specimens utilizing lab instruments
Learn the purpose of each step in the extraction process to better understand the overall process and become effective at troubleshooting
Cross-train and learn the basics of other roles and instruments in the Initial Testing team, such as enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to be able to assist with instrument maintenance and operation as needed
Document room temperature, humidity levels, reagents, and controls per CLIA and CAP regulations
Stock and refill specimens, reagents, inventory, and supplies for lab operations throughout the day
Dispose of urine and oral fluid specimens that have reached their retention date
Communicate effectively with other departments about issues regarding specimen processing
Complete general lab tasks as needed
Aid in training and any special projects (AMR studies, validations, proficiency testing, CAP inspections, etc.) that arise throughout the year
Meet established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for speed, accuracy, quantity, and overall quality
Other duties as assigned

DIRECT REPORTS

None

This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Regular and prompt attendance
Ability to perform work following established SOPs and ensuring the highest quality standards are maintained
Must be able to meet established production benchmarks in terms of quality, volume, timeliness, and adherence to established policies
Requires ability to effectively troubleshoot process and instrument issues using critical, strategic, and analytical thinking
Ability to listen, learn, and promote accountability and responsibility related to all sample preparation and extraction processes
Proficient in use of single-channel and multi-channel pipettes
Proficient in ability to operate laboratory instrumentation and computers with scientific software applications
Must be able and willing to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
Proficient with Microsoft Office applications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toxicology, Biochemistry, Biology, Forensic Science, or a similar analytical science field; or Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) with appropriate national certification and 3 years of experience
Minimum of 1 year of data entry experience required
Preference for candidates with familiarity with pipetting, extractions, and use of 96-well plates
Preference for candidates with experience working with bodily fluids, such as urine and oral fluid

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
Skill in data entry with minimal errors
Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines
Ability to function in a team environment and promote collaboration
Must be able to work under limited supervision where the work assignments are subject to established procedures, techniques, and well-defined policies
Skill with completing assignments accurately, and with attention to detail

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work will be performed in a laboratory environment and exposes the incumbent to normal laboratory hazards and chemicals, including biohazard materials
Work in varying degrees of temperature (heated or air conditioned)
First entry of specimens requires sitting/standing for up to 4 hours continuously
Position requires sitting, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing
Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

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Ethos Labs

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