Molecular Technologist

FORT WALTON BEACH, Ft Walton Bch, FL, US

Position Summary

The molecular technologist performs and reports molecular diagnostic testing in the White-Wilson clinical laboratory. Work includes nucleic acid extraction, amplification by PCR and related methods, detection, and interpretation of results, along with quality control, instrument maintenance, and participation in assay validation. The position works under general supervision and reports results in accordance with laboratory procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform molecular assays from start to finish, including specimen accessioning, nucleic acid isolation, amplification such as PCR, qPCR, and RT-PCR as applicable, detection, and interpretation of results.
• Set up and verify PCR plate maps, controls, and run worklists, and maintain traceability from specimen to well.
• Maintain unidirectional workflow and contamination control, keeping reagent preparation, specimen addition, amplification, and detection areas and equipment appropriately separated.
• Run and document quality control, calibration, and instrument maintenance. Take corrective action when quality control or system performance falls outside established limits, and record the action taken.
• Participate in method validation and verification for new or modified assays, including accuracy, precision, reportable range, analytical sensitivity and specificity, and reference intervals as applicable.
• Enter and release results in the laboratory information system, and communicate critical or unexpected results according to policy.
• Handle proficiency testing samples in the same manner as patient samples, with no interlaboratory communication or referral before the reporting deadline.
• Troubleshoot instrument, reagent, and assay problems, and elevate to the technical supervisor or director when needed.
• Maintain records, reagent and control inventory, and lot-to-lot verification documentation.
• Follow all safety, biosafety, and specimen handling procedures.

Education, Certification, and Licensure

• Bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science, molecular biology, biology, chemistry, or a related biological or chemical science from an accredited institution, or education that otherwise meets the clinical certification and Florida licensure requirements for this role.
• Current molecular certification. Acceptable credentials include the ASCP Board of Certification Technologist in Molecular Biology, MB(ASCP), or Specialist in Molecular Biology, SMB(ASCP). An equivalent molecular credential from another certifying body recognized under CLIA and accepted by the Florida Board of Clinical Laboratory Personnel is also acceptable, for example a molecular diagnostics certification through the American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB).
• Current Florida clinical laboratory personnel license in the specialty of Molecular Pathology at the technologist level, or eligibility for Florida licensure in Molecular Pathology with licensure obtained within the first 90 days of employment. Florida requires licensure to perform and report clinical laboratory testing under Chapter 483, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 64B3, Florida Administrative Code.
• Meets the CLIA high complexity testing personnel qualifications under 42 CFR 493.1489.

Experience

Hands-on nucleic acid extraction and molecular or PCR laboratory experience is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of molecular methods, including extraction, amplification, detection, and, where applicable, sequencing and hybridization, and of contamination control principles.
• Understanding of CLIA and accreditation requirements for high complexity and molecular testing.
• Careful documentation habits and strong attention to specimen and data integrity.
• Methodical approach to troubleshooting instruments and reagents.
• Comfort with a laboratory information system and basic spreadsheet tools.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Work is performed in a clinical laboratory and patient service setting. The role involves extended periods of standing and sitting, repetitive hand and wrist motion, and frequent use of a computer and laboratory instruments. The employee handles blood and other potentially infectious materials and works around chemical reagents, and must follow standard precautions and use personal protective equipment. Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Compliance and Safety

The employee follows all applicable CLIA requirements, laboratory accreditation standards, HIPAA privacy and security requirements, OSHA and bloodborne pathogen requirements, and White-Wilson policies and procedures. The employee completes required training and competency assessment on schedule, keeps certification and Florida licensure in active status, and reports safety concerns and events through the appropriate channels.

Acknowledgment

This description outlines the general nature and level of work expected in this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required, and duties may be adjusted to meet the needs of the laboratory.

7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, four days per week. Rotating weekend coverage may be required.