Under the minimal supervision of the Newborn DNA Analysis Group Manager, uses expert knowledge to independently perform highly complex and highly specialized molecular genetic procedures to identify mutations causing cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, spinal muscular atrophy, X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), very long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCAD), and other NBS disorders using standard or developmental protocols. Responsible for independently performing specimen and reagent preparation, data analysis and interpretation, work list evaluation, result entry, release of final results, maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment, evaluating the quality of reagents, assisting in managing material resources, and other supporting work for the laboratory. Responsible for making significant decisions on assay acceptability and accuracy of laboratory tests on human specimens. Performs and reviews quality control for DNA analysis and utilizes expert working knowledge of all procedures to independently determine, troubleshoot, and release highly complex analytical test results ensuring that the analytic accuracy and continuity of testing are maintained. Conducts the monitoring and documentation of quality assurance. Serves as a senior molecular biologist authority and role model. Responsible for coordinating assignments, monitoring workload and staff, training personnel, and providing customer service. Evaluates current protocols, researches new procedures and provides recommendations. Participates in incorporation, evaluation, validation, and implementation of new processes, procedures and technologies. Actively participates in the safety program. Duties are independently performed with considerable latitude, adherence to standard protocol and with extensive use of scientific knowledge and independent judgment. Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary, all staff members will be required to work on Saturday as part of a rotating schedule. This position is eligible for shift differential in accordance with DSHS Laboratory Policy.

Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

EJF 1. Plans and conducts highly complex advanced molecular genetic procedures including DNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, real-time PCR, RFLP analysis, DNA sequencing, and DNA sequence analysis following laboratory protocol guidelines for the identification of mutations causing cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, spinal muscular atrophy, x-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), very long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, and other NBS disorders. Uses technical knowledge to determine specimen acceptability. Completes all documentation with required information. Evaluates existing procedures, provides suggestions to improve the efficacy and implements approved changes. (35%)

EJF 2. Evaluates and interprets highly complex laboratory data on human specimens and assigns final results. Uses expert knowledge to independently identify, investigate, interpret, assess, review, order retests and resolve problems with atypical test results to ensure the accuracy of the reports. Consults with upper level personnel when necessary. Reviews and releases the highly complex final test results using the laboratory information management system. Ensures rapid communication of abnormal test results to Clinical Care Coordination, Team Lead, and Group Manager. (25%)

EJF 3. Conducts the monitoring and documentation of quality control review, proficiency testing, equipment performance documentation, specimen tallies, reagent quality, and supply inventory to ensure consistently acceptable quality assurance and test performance. Investigates quality assurance problems, recommends solutions, and implements approved corrective actions. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality control procedures are followed for all the tests performed by the team. Participates in the update and development of Standard Operating Procedures and training materials. (15%)

EJF 4. Coordinates and facilitates the technical bench assignments. Ensures that specimen testing, reporting, and other essential functions are completed without delay, notifying the supervisor immediately and initiating corrective action when needed. Promotes workflow through cooperative interaction, reassignment of duties, and teamwork with supervisors, co-workers, and internal and external customers. Provides consultation and services to customers regarding specimen requirements, molecular biology technology, and interpretation of highly complex analytical test results. Conducts training and tours. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Monitors and ensures adequate inventory of supplies and reagents and communicates needs to Team Lead. Consistently complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (10%)

EJF 5. Performs routine and specialized preventive maintenance of highly complex equipment. Identifies equipment problems, initiates troubleshooting, makes adjustments as indicated, requests vendor support when needed and completes required documentation. (5%)

EJF 6. Researches new procedures and reports on their usefulness. Participates in research, evaluation, development, and implementation of new testing procedures. Prepares complex technical reports and research papers. (5%)

EJF 7. Serves as a Senior Molecular Biologist. Monitors staff technical performance, recommends specific technical training for employees and routinely coaches and mentors other employees in the workgroup. Participates in interviewing and selection of employees. (5%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Comprehensive knowledge of laboratory, quality control, quality assurance, molecular genetic principles, techniques, and terminology.

Knowledge of laboratory safety including sample-handling techniques.

Ability to perform analytical procedures, detect and troubleshoot analytical problems that could influence test results such as problems with reagents, equipment, test calibration, and employee performance.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing to both internal and external customers.

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Ability to interact effectively with staff and work in harmony with other team members.

Ability to lead co-workers by setting a positive work-ethic example.

Ability to work as part of a team adhering to structured deadlines for completion of critical laboratory procedures.

Ability to work independently, prioritize, organize, multi-task and self-motivate as appropriate to complete tasks without close supervision.

Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.

Ability to keep accurate, detailed records.

Ability to use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material.

Ability to use, maintain, and troubleshoot work area instruments and automated testing equipment.

Ability to recognize and solve work area problems.

Ability to teach work area procedures to coworkers and guests.

Ability to prepare diagnostic (analytical) reagents and/or controls accurately.

Ability to plan, assign, direct, and monitor the work of others.

Ability to make technical decisions and use mature judgment in test interpretation based on professional knowledge and experience.

Ability to use a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis, and results reporting.

Ability to visually distinguish color differences as required for testing procedures.

Skill to manipulate standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Initial Selection Criteria:
Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution

Experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.
Ability to work on Saturdays on rotating basis required.

Minimum 6 months of work experience in molecular testing or clinical molecular testing, required.

Preferred but not required:
Experience with clinical molecular laboratory testing including procedures in newborn screening. Experience in a high-volume workload laboratory setting.

Additional Information:
Hepatitis Risk High. Required Hepatitis B and Tetanus/Diphtheria immunizations are provided. Must wear provided personal protective equipment (including: face shield, gloves, laboratory coat, safety glasses) as required by testing/ safety procedures.

Interviews scheduled after screening. Must be able to pass a functional color vision assessment in order to carry out essential job functions. The functional color vision assessment will be administered at the time of the interview.

Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary, all staff members will be required to work on Saturday as part of a rotating schedule. Shift differential for Saturday rotation applies per DSHS policy.

Note: Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include: 71A, 230X, MED10, 43TX. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx.

Attach copy of college transcripts or equivalent.
List on Application in Employment History for each job:

percent time and experience with specific laboratory instrumentation, including computers and software utilized

daily specimen workload

experience with quality control and quality assurance.

Please follow this link for tips on the application process:

https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/about-hhs/jobs-hhs/tips-success-jobs-hhs.pdf

MOS Code:
71A, 230X, MED10, 43TX

Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.