Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory Technician (2nd Shift)

Position: Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory Technician
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Employment Type: Full-Time
Department: Clinical Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory

Position Summary

We are seeking a Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory Technician to join our growing clinical laboratory. This position performs molecular diagnostic testing using real-time PCR (qPCR) technologies to support accurate and timely patient diagnoses. The technician will be responsible for specimen processing, nucleic acid extraction, assay preparation, qPCR analysis, quality control, and laboratory documentation while maintaining compliance with CLIA, CAP, and laboratory quality standards.

The successful candidate will work in a fast-paced clinical laboratory performing molecular testing for infectious diseases and pharmacogenomics while ensuring accurate, high-quality patient results.

Primary ResponsibilitiesMolecular Diagnostic Testing

Perform molecular diagnostic testing using real-time PCR (qPCR) methodologies for:

• Wound pathogen identification
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) panels
• Fungal Nail (Onychomycosis) testing
• Helicobacter pylori detection and antimicrobial resistance testing
• Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing using a customized gene panel

Laboratory Operations

• Receive, accession, verify, and process patient specimens.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction from various specimen types.
• Prepare PCR master mixes and patient reactions.
• Operate real-time PCR instrumentation.
• Analyze amplification curves, Ct values, melt curves (when applicable), and quality control metrics.
• Review assay controls to verify run validity before reporting results.
• Document all testing activities according to laboratory SOPs.
• Perform repeat testing and basic troubleshooting when required.
• Enter and verify laboratory data within the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• Assist with maintaining laboratory turnaround times and workflow efficiency.

Quality Assurance

• Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Adhere to CLIA, CAP, HIPAA, OSHA, and laboratory safety requirements.
• Perform daily quality control and routine instrument maintenance.
• Document instrument maintenance and troubleshooting activities.
• Monitor reagent inventory and notify supervisors of supply needs.
• Participate in proficiency testing, quality improvement, and continuous process improvement initiatives.

Laboratory Maintenance

• Maintain a clean, organized, and contamination-free molecular laboratory.
• Perform routine cleaning and decontamination of laboratory workspaces and equipment.
• Follow unidirectional workflow practices to prevent PCR contamination.
• Prepare reagents and maintain laboratory consumables.
• Assist with inventory management and reagent tracking.

QualificationsRequired

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Medical Laboratory Science, or a related life science field.
• Experience working in a molecular biology, microbiology, biotechnology, clinical laboratory, or research laboratory.
• Familiarity with basic molecular biology laboratory techniques.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently during the evening shift while maintaining productivity and accuracy.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced laboratory environment.

Preferred

• Experience performing real-time PCR (qPCR) or RT-PCR assays.
• Experience with DNA/RNA extraction techniques.
• Experience working in a CLIA-certified and/or CAP-accredited laboratory.
• Experience with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS).
• Experience in molecular infectious disease diagnostics.
• Experience performing or supporting pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing.
• Knowledge of molecular assay quality control and contamination prevention practices.

Technical Skills

Preferred experience with:

• Real-Time PCR (qPCR)
• DNA/RNA extraction
• Micropipetting
• Molecular biology workflows
• Clinical laboratory documentation
• Laboratory Quality Control
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Frequent use of pipettes, laboratory instruments, and computers.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Manual dexterity for repetitive laboratory procedures.
• Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Work Environment

This position is based in a CLIA-certified clinical molecular diagnostics laboratory. The technician will work with human clinical specimens while following established biosafety, infection control, and contamination prevention procedures. Strict adherence to laboratory quality standards and regulatory requirements is essential.

Why Join Our Team?

• Monday–Friday schedule with evenings only (3:00 PM–11:00 PM)
• Opportunity to work with advanced molecular diagnostic technologies
• Exposure to both infectious disease diagnostics and pharmacogenomic testing
• Hands-on experience with clinical qPCR workflows
• Collaborative, quality-focused laboratory environment
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth in molecular diagnostics

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Work Location: In person