Medical Laboratory Technologist - Genetics

Schedule: Schedule will consist of, but not be limited to a 9 hour shift with a 60 minute non-billable lunch break between the hours of 0600 and 1700, Monday through Friday.  The HCW will not exceed 40 hours per week unless approved overtime is directed to meet the demands of the mission.

Location: Keesler Air Force Base, MS

Pay Rate: $30.00/hr + $4.57/hw

Optional Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(K) matching with employee participation in 401(K) plan

Benefits: PTO, sick leave, holiday leave, Life, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, Short Term Disability

• Perform clinical laboratory testing for nucleic acid-based diseases for Department of Defense (DoD) beneficiaries and on survey samples submitted to the laboratory for quality assurance and proficiency testing.
• Routinely performs testing on blood, cells, cell cultures, and various tissue samples from patients, deceased individuals, and fetuses (prenatal testing).  
•  Must maintain sample tracking and integrity meticulously to prevent cross- contamination of samples. Nucleic acid testing is subject to a multitude of constantly changing variables, which can affect the results.
•  Demonstrates high-level laboratory problem solving skills and analytical abilities to successfully perform assigned laboratory testing.

• Receives packages containing samples, and verifies the presence of the correct contents and paperwork, the adequacy of the sample, and the documentation.

•  Creates labels and folders for the test to be performed. Records the samples on the correct worksheets in the laboratory, in computer information management systems, and on Excel spreadsheets.

•  Extracts nucleic acid from samples utilizing multiple established protocols. Assesses the adequacy of the nucleic acid obtained, quantifies final nucleic acid samples, and documents results of nucleic acid extraction processes. Performs calculations to determine appropriate dilutions of nucleic acid and/or quantities to be used for various testing procedures.

• Performs a variety of nucleic acid-based analytical procedures including (but not limited to) polymerase chain reactions (PCR), Southern analysis, allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization, short-tandem repeat length analysis, DNA or RNA sequencing, restriction enzyme digestion, capillary or gel-based electrophoresis, microarrays, and allele-specific PCR. Utilizes computerized robotics, column and array-based sequencers, various electrophoresis and hybridization equipment, and photographic and digital imaging equipment to perform and document testing. Analyzes and interprets the results obtained.
•  Performs PCR to amplify regions of nucleic acid of interest using protocols established in the laboratory. Pours and runs (via electrophoresis) agarose gels to assess the adequacy of the PCR products obtained. Documents the results utilizing digital and/or photographic imaging systems.

• If PCR reactions are not successful, performs problem-solving steps to determine the cause of the failure and corrects the problem. Must repeat PCR reactions on individual samples as required to obtain adequate results.

• PCR must be performed without contamination. Perform all PCR reactions with contamination free controls.
• Correctly tracks nucleic acid/PCR samples to maintain chain of identity and prevent sample mix-up.

• Achieves the laboratory standards for turn-around time.

• Documents the results of testing in patient folders and laboratory information management systems (LIMS). Presents testing results to the laboratory director for verification and final reporting. Types draft versions of laboratory reports. Verifies and certifies results in LIMS using established protocols.

•  Maintains data on testing and PCR failure rates, problems encountered, and solutions to those problems. Tabulates data and performs statistical evaluation of data for Quality Assurance monitoring.

• Participates in the development and evaluation of new testing equipment and/or techniques.

• Collates data and documents validation studies on new testing procedures developed in the lab, as assigned by the laboratory director.

• Generates operating instructions (OIs) in accordance with established guidelines and the College of American Pathologists (CAP) for new procedures, as assigned by the laboratory director or designee.

• Maintains assigned equipment by performing and documenting required daily checks, scheduling and/or performing preventive maintenance, and obtaining repairs as required. Makes assigned solutions for general lab use according to established laboratory procedures. Monitors levels of assigned supply items and orders additional supplies as necessary to maintain adequate stock on hand in the laboratory.
• Answers laboratory telephone calls, which may include calls from other laboratories or providers seeking information. Correctly provides information about test availability, sample and consent requirements, availability of forms, and other general lab information to callers. Correctly refers callers to the genetic counselor, a supervisor, and/or lab director as indicated.

• Actively participates in preparations for CAP, Joint Commission and other inspections.

• Adheres to infection control procedures including use of personal protective equipment and proper disposal of bio-hazardous waste.

• Participates in required lab training, in-services and continuing medical education programs and activities. Participates in required hospital training.
•  Ensures a safe work environment and employee safe work habits.

• Degree/Education (5.2.4): Bachelor's Degree
• Certifications in addition to Basic Life Support (5.2.3): None
• Experience: Must possess at least 12 months experience working in a molecular laboratory within the past 36 months.  Experience with molecular technologies is highly desired.
• Board Certification (5.2.6.4.4): Current in one of the following: Medical Technologist, Medical Laboratory Scientist, Molecular Biology Technologist (MB), or Cytogenetic Technologist (CG) as defined by ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology), American Medical Technologists (AMT), or other organization deemed comparable by OASD (HA) or their designee (CCLM).

AKAHI ASSOCIATES LLC

AKAHI Associates is a premier provider of healthcare workers to various military treatment facilities across the United States. With a corporate office in Honolulu, Hawaii and recruiting office in San Antonio, Texas we specialize in providing skilled, trained and highly successful healthcare workers, including RNs, CRNAs, Physicians, LPN/LVN, Licensed Social Workers, and many more.We have a strong focus on providing our government customers with quality and superior service.Akahi Associates is an equal opportunity employer and Minorities, Females, Veterans, and Disabled persons are encouraged to apply. For further information, please click the link below to view the EEO Is The Law poster.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.Only qualified individuals who are being considered will be contacted for an interview.