Pcr Supervisor

JOB OVERVIEW

The PCR Supervisor is responsible for leading the team of PCR Specialists and overseeing the daily operations in the Microbiology department, including testing patient specimens for respiratory pathogens, infectious diseases, and pharmacogenetics (PGx). In addition, this person will ensure patient lab reports are accurate and completed on time, be accountable for proper documentation and compliance with regulations, evaluate opportunities for process improvement, and participate in developing new processes for instrumentation and testing methods, as needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee the daily operations of the Microbiology department
• Ensure adherence to BSL-2 safety standards within the Microbiology department
• Ensure adherence to CAP, CLIA, and NYS standards within the Microbiology department
• Ensure adherence to Ethos Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Policies
• Ensure patient specimens are tested accurately and lab reports are released on time, utilizing data reports
• Oversee instrument and equipment maintenance, scheduling with vendors as needed
• Maintain appropriate records of certifications, repairs, and maintenance for lab instruments and equipment
• Provide direct leadership for the team of PCR Specialists
• Hold weekly department meetings to share updates with the team
• Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the PCR Specialists
• Hold monthly KPI meetings for ongoing coaching and feedback
• Track and maintain data and instrument performance indicators on a daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual basis
• Establish and monitor department metrics for turnaround time, accuracy, throughput, expenses, etc.
• Participate in interdepartmental meetings to share department metrics, challenges, new processes, etc.
• Collaborate and communicate with other department leaders
• Review and/or create SOPs and controlled documents within the Microbiology department as needed
• Develop new and improve existing PCR processes as needed
• Take steps to increase efficiency and productivity with instrument processes, minimizing downtime while maintaining optimum conditions
• Identify, troubleshoot, and analyze issues or trends related to instrument operation, instrument repair, calibrations, quality controls, workflow, patient data, etc.
• Document incidents and accidents on the appropriate forms, perform remedial training, if required, to prevent further incidents/accidents
• Escalate issues to the Director of Lab Operations, Laboratory Director, or VP of Operations as needed
• Interview, hire, onboard, and train new employees
• Complete employee competency assessments initially, after first 6 months, and annually
• Participate in developing new processes for instrumentation and testing methods as needed
• Become fully trained and competent in PCR Specialist responsibilities to support the team with daily functions during periods of high volume or to cover absences
• Exemplify and encourage positive interactions within the lab to inspire collaboration and teamwork
• Other duties as assigned

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Experience supervising individuals and teams
• Experience creating, revising, and operating from SOPs
• Ability to maintain the highest level of confidentiality and adherence to HIPAA regulations
• Deep knowledge of PCR processes, instrumentation, and workflows
• Proficient in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting a wide variety of PCR systems, including but not limited to ThermoFisher ABI 7500 Fast systems, ThermoFisher QuantStudio 7 Flex systems, Agena MassARRAY systems, extraction equipment, liquid handlers, and thermal cyclers.
• Ability to model and foster in others time management, conscientiousness, dedication, and accountability
• Ability to listen, learn, and promote accountability and responsibility related to all processes
• Able and willing to follow established protocols employing acceptable forensic standards of analysis and the use of judgment in searching for solutions or new applications within one’s own experience
• Must be able and willing to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor of Science in Life Science, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, or similar analytical science field with minimum of 5 years of relevant experience; OR Master of Science with minimum of 2 years of relevant experience
• Must have experience supervising a laboratory that conducts PCR testing
• Preference for candidates with experience developing or optimizing PCR processes
• Preference for candidates with experience in a high-throughput production laboratory
• Preference for candidates with experience with CLIA, COLA, CAP, and/or NYS standards

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Critical thinking and problem solving, with a high level of attention to detail
• Must have leadership qualities and be able to supervise employees
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
• Excellent time management, scheduling, documentation, and organizational skills
• Must be flexible, innovative, and self-motivated
• Must be able to motivate, coach, and mentor employees for highest level of performance
• Must be able to delegate and accomplish goals through others
• Must be experienced with laboratory software

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work is performed in a laboratory environment and exposes the incumbent to normal laboratory hazards and chemicals, including biohazard materials
• Work in varying degrees of temperature (heated or air conditioned)
• Position requires sitting, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing

DIRECT REPORTS

• PCR Specialist(s)