Bench Chemist

JOB OVERVIEW

The Bench Chemist performs patient sample, quality control, and calibrator preparations for validation and method development projects that pertain to the Confirmation, Serology, and Microbiology departments. In addition, the Bench Chemist works with the Validations department to ensure that routine validation and method development projects are scheduled, planned, and completed on-time in accordance with CAP/CLIA standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provide patient sample, quality control, and calibrator preparation support for routine validations and method development projects including: biannual AMR studies, biannual instrument comparison studies, stability studies, instrument validations, instrument method validations, and production standard validations
• Work with the Validations and Quality departments to schedule and plan for routine validations and method development projects
• Ensure that sample preparation is done in accordance with CAP/CLIA standards
• Utilize high-throughput liquid handlers for sample preparation, 96-well plate transfers, and solid phase extraction
• Communicate with the Confirmation, Microbiology, and Serology departments to ensure that projects are planned and performed on-time
• Ensure that inventory for quality control, calibrator, reagent, and consumables is kept and maintained for routine validations
• Work with Analytical Development Scientists and Laboratory Manager to map-out and design plate layout for validations and method development projects
• Create or modify SOPs for new or modified processes
• Work with the Quality Management team to ensure acceptable analytical test performance is established and maintained
• Directs and preforms samples preparation for method development projects and other research projects specified by the Laboratory Director and/or Technical Supervisor
• Schedule meetings within laboratory departments when necessary
• Other duties as assigned

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to coordinate laboratory functions and represent the laboratory professionally 
• Able and willing to follow established protocols employing acceptable forensic standards of analysis and requires the use of judgment in searching for solutions or new applications within one’s own experience
• Must be able to plan and organize his/her work, and have ability to participate in method development, validation or research
• Must be able to achieve superior results when work is reviewed in terms of quality, volume, timeliness, and adherence to established methods, standards and policies
• Attend relevant conferences for continuing education and networking opportunities
• Must be able and willing to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications 
• Regular and prompt attendance

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Associates degree in science or engineering with 2 years of relevant experience or Bachelors of Science in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toxicology, Biology, Forensic Science, or a similar analytical science field
• Preference for candidates with sample preparation experience, specifically using pipettes and automated liquid handlers
• Preference for individuals with experience working with bodily fluids – such as urine, oral fluid, blood, and more preferred
• Preference for individuals with experience in CAP and CLIA compliant laboratories

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
• Must be able to work with limited supervision where the work assignments are subject to established procedures, practices, precedents, methods, techniques, standards, and/or well-defined policies 
• Regular and prompt attendance
• Ability to function in a team environment 
• Attention to detail, understanding and adhering to established protocols, communication, and team work are required for this position
• Ability to listen, learn, and promote accountability and responsibility related to all instrument, calibration, and quality control processes

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