Laboratory Technician I Entomology and Ecology Team (EET)

Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) has a potential need for a Laboratory Technician I – Entomology and Ecology Team (EET) to provide support for our government customer in Fort Collins, CO. DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES Conduct laboratory operations, including receiving and logging samples; verifying accompanying information; accessioning samples into database systems; labeling, sorting, and transferring specimens; running query lists to process specimens; locating and separating aliquoted specimens for testing or shipping; assisting in programming laboratory equipment; preparing reagents in accordance with established protocols; and complying with laboratory safety and quality requirements. Perform laboratory testing activities, including nucleic acid extractions in accordance with established protocols; maintaining high standards of laboratory quality and safety; conducting quality control tests for extraction processes; performing amplification of nucleic acids using PCR techniques; preparing samples for sequencing; conducting sequencing as required; documenting all procedures performed; maintaining laboratory records; collecting and reporting test results; supporting bioinformatics pipeline analysis; and preparing summary reports of findings. Maintain accurate records of laboratory experiments and procedures in compliance with Quality Management Standards (QMS) established for CDC laboratories, and participate in required training for laboratory equipment use, safety, and QMS compliance. Conduct diagnostic testing laboratory operations, including intake of samples for genomic sequencing; performing nucleic acid extractions, library preparation, and sequencing; operating and maintaining established bioinformatics pipelines; accurately recording data and updating associated databases and sample inventories; participating in laboratory safety and quality trainings; maintaining laboratory standards and records in accordance with the Quality Manual for Microbiological Laboratories (QMML); and attending meetings, as needed, to coordinate laboratory activities and review results. Conduct research and development activities supporting direct detection diagnostics for Lyme disease using CRISPR technology and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Perform and maintain quality review and measurement of laboratory functions associated with biological research applications and activities. Provide support in maintaining laboratory functions essential to diagnostic development, including work involving the laboratory tick-mouse infectious cycle, and provide technical support for biological and scientific assessments related to quality management systems and applicable regulatory standards. Conduct quality reviews in accordance with established quality review plans to assess adherence to laboratory standards and procedures. Support implementation and maintenance of quality policies, processes, and procedures. Support continuous improvement of laboratory quality management systems, including internal audits, corrective and preventive actions, quality planning, document control, records management, equipment calibration, training, and data management functions. Assist in the development of quality management goals and implementation of objectives, policies, and priorities to ensure compliance with evolving regulatory and quality requirements. Serve as a laboratory liaison for audits, review committees, and third-party inquiries, including participation in external quality assessments and regulatory compliance activities. Any data collection involving ten (10) or more members of the public shall require appropriate Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval prior to implementation. May be required to support activities outside of standard business hours, including evenings, weekends, or holidays, within the established labor-hour structure, based on program needs. REQUIRED DEGREE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION Bachelor's degree or equivalent in public health, microbiological, biochemical, biomedical or similar science. REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE Proficiency in standard office software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, and Word), as required to perform assigned tasks. Ability to communicate effectively and interact professionally with CDC personnel and external partners. Knowledgeable of laboratory safety, quality management, and access requirements. Willing and able to complete required medical clearances, health screenings, or fit testing necessary to perform laboratory duties in accordance with CDC policies. Minimum of one to three (1‑3) years of experience in a professional laboratory setting preferred. Ability to follow and execute laboratory SOPs independently and with a high degree of quality assurance. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong problem-solving skills along with outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail. Energetic team presence with an eagerness to learn and collaborate with other members of the team. Ability to multi-task and prioritize competing demands in a fast-paced environment. DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE Prior experience supporting and adhering to the CDC Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements and applicable federal regulations. The contractor shall not engage in human subjects research activities without prior approval. Experience with laboratory diagnostic assays. Experience with laboratory accreditation bodies and associated requirements. Experience with laboratory management/operational laboratory support and inventory management. REQUIRED CITIZENSHIP AND CLEARANCE Must be a U.S. Citizen. Must be able to successfully complete a background investigation and obtain a CDC Personal Identity Verification (PIV) badge to access Government facilities and systems. BENEFITS Competitive salaries. Eligible employees enjoy a 401K plan with company match; medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage; tuition reimbursement; paid time off; and 11 paid holidays. We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer of individuals with disabilities and veterans. We do not illegally discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of any protected categories. If you are a person with a disability and need an accommodation during the application process, please request accommodation. #J-18808-Ljbffr