Molecular Tech

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 led 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 experience
• 3 to 5 years of experience conducting PCR testing in a high-volume, high-throughput laboratory. Molecular diagnostics experience required
• Previous work in a Bio Safety Level 2 laboratory required
• DNA extraction experience required including use of Kingfisher magnetic particle separator
• Real-time PCR experience required including use of Quant Studio PCR platform
• Experience validating PCR assays preferred

Technical 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 planning

Physical Position Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, crouch
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods

Zoetis is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status or any other protected classification. Disabled individuals are given an equal opportunity to use our online application system. We offer reasonable accommodations as an alternative if requested by an individual with a disability.