About the job
Position Summary:
The Lead Medical Lab Scientist is a pivotal member of our Operations Department at Natera, based in Austin, TX. This role involves the expert processing and analysis of clinical specimens while ensuring laboratory equipment is well-maintained. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with a dedicated team of Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS) and laboratory staff, providing support and troubleshooting as necessary to ensure efficient laboratory operations.
Primary Responsibilities:
• Execute precise testing and analysis of clinical laboratory specimens, adhering to both automated and manual assay steps with minimal errors.
• Engage in validation processes for new methodologies.
• Provide training on specialized protocols and equipment.
• Identify and escalate equipment malfunctions while troubleshooting routine errors.
• Document and report any deviations from laboratory protocols to the lead or supervisor.
• Contribute to the revision of departmental standard operating procedures to accurately represent current practices.
• Implement quality control measures to uphold the accuracy of clinical data (when applicable).
• Collaborate with team members to ensure the completion of daily tasks.
• Participate in experimental data reviews as required.
• May act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) within the department, delivering presentations as needed.
• Engage in departmental projects and initiatives, collaborating with other departments as needed.
• Assist the lead or supervisor in training new hires and in the implementation of new processes.
• Serve as the go-to resource in the absence of the lead or supervisor.
• Guide new hires through current laboratory processes and support the supervisor in the training of new procedures.
• Maintain expertise in the entire laboratory workflow, anticipating and resolving issues proactively.
• Lead and complete independent continuous improvement projects, achieving Yellow Belt or higher certification.
• Aid in planning and optimizing workflow within the laboratory.
• Efficiently work across departments to provide solutions for workflow challenges.
• Assist in internal audits and preparation for inspections as required.
• Exercise sound judgment in clinical decision-making as necessary.
• Support the supervisor with additional side projects as assigned by management.
• Ensure the seamless implementation of new laboratory changes on the lab floor.
• Proactively identify and lead laboratory improvement initiatives with management's approval.
• Investigate and follow up on laboratory errors (NCR).
• Assist the manager with regular competency assessments and reviews.
• Maintain comprehensive expertise in laboratory processes, ready to troubleshoot challenges before they arise.