Analytical Chemistry Development Scientist at Sonic Reference Laboratory, Inc

Job Functions, Duties, Responsibilities and Position Qualifications:

Position Summary: 

Responsible for R&D, validation/verification of analytical chemistry methods use for diagnostic testing, and production implementation of tests. Work closely with management to explore, design, evaluate and optimize assays to demonstrate the feasibility of potential new products and technologies to enhance test menu and reduce costs. Translates projects into Project Management timelines and adheres to delivery dates.  Adheres to departmental policies and procedures to include departmental programs, quality control, quality assurance, and safety.

Principle Responsibilities:

• Conducts research and development activities
  • Conducts minor research and significant development activities for the validation and verification of new, novel, or improved analytical chemistry tests, including:
    • drafting, editing, and finalizing documentation of activities and results as well as assay documents including SOPs, competency exams, and any job forms or worksheets.
    • experimental design and execution, including sample cataloging and tracking, planning laboratory work, utilizing a wide range of equipment and methods
    • troubleshooting of assays, equipment, and/or reagents as required
    • validation of spreadsheets and relevant software applications
    • data analysis including basic statistics, application of standard curves, and calculation of relevant assay performance metrics
  • Leads or facilitates operational implementation of newly developed tests which may include initial training of operations staff, coordinating use of space or equipment, and ongoing assay support
  • Estimates and tracks task timelines and adheres to delivery dates using a variety of software tools, maintaining strong communication with relevant stakeholders
  • Leads or facilitates implementation of LIS components associated with tests, including modification and/or testing in the LIS system and documentation of such activities.
     
• Utilizes job knowledge, judgment, and problem solving skills to ensure quality
  • Follows established policies and procedures for quality control performance and documentation.
  • Performs and documents scheduled and unscheduled preventative maintenance.
  • Identifies problems which may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and takes appropriate action, including supervisor notification if indicated.
  • Understands and follows all safety, infection control, and OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen guidelines.
  • Participates in departmental quality assurance programs.
     
• Participates in the laboratory continuing education program.
   
• Effectively utilizes departmental resources
  • Demonstrates efficiency by performing procedures rapidly and determining priority.
  • Utilizes appropriate supplies with minimal waste.
  • Operates equipment to maximize efficiency and minimize down time.
  • Utilizes unstructured time constructively.
     
• Utilizes personal and professional skills to promote customer relations.
  • Communicates with laboratory staff and its clients to ensure quality patient care.
  • Maintains and supports a service oriented relationship with its customers.
  • Respects and maintains the confidentiality of information relative to clients and patients.
  • Strives to maintain a positive work environment.
     
• Enthusiastically performs miscellaneous duties with completion in a designated time frame.
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Scope: 

• Promotes quality client/patient relations and creates supportive climate by serving as a role model for behavior. 
• Respects and maintains the confidentiality of information relative to the laboratory. 
• Adheres to all laboratory policies and regulations. 
• Works with minimal direction. 
• Operates general laboratory equipment, including but not limited to:  telephones, computer keyboards and CRT, automated analyzers, centrifuges, thermal cyclers, vacuum systems, positive pressure manifolds, evaporators, manual and automated pipettes. 
• Operates specialized laboratory equipment including but not limited to high-performance liquid chromatography systems and tandem mass spectrometry systems.
• Effectively communicates via written, verbal, face-to-face, telephone, and computer methods.

Education:  BS Degree or higher in Chemical, Biological, or Physical Science.

Certification:  None required

Experience: 

• Minimum – two years of laboratory training or experience or both.
• Preferred – four or more years of laboratory training or experience or both in both high complexity clinical testing and research laboratory settings.

Skills: 

• Hands-on experience on analytical chemistry techniques such as chromatography, mass spectrometry, LC-MS/MS, solid phase extraction, liquid-liquid extraction, supported-liquid extractions, protein precipitation, quantitative chemical analysis, stable-isotope labelled internal standards, and robotic liquid handling. 
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical reports and documents. 
• Ability to write accurate and concise clinical documents, memos, and required correspondence. 
• Ability to collect and analyze data using statistical methods. 
• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels within the laboratory and with laboratory clients.

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

Work Shift:

Job Category:

Company:

Sonic Healthcare USA is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and is committed to an inclusive workplace for all employees. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.