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Job Location (Full Address):

211 Bailey Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14586

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

500232 Microbiology SMH

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URC 206 H

Compensation Range:

$20.99 - $28.34

Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the designated Supervisor, the Senior Technician exercises advanced knowledge, judgment and problem solving skills. Provides technical supervision of section when needed and is accountable for directing the professional conduct and technical performance of personnel on that shift. Serves as the shift lead in the absence of the Supervisor or Operations Coordinator.
Performs complex laboratory assignments; may plan/conduct a complete project of limited scope or a portion of a larger and more diverse project. Candidates must be detail oriented, have a strong work ethic, able to work independently and as part of a highly functioning team, and possess strong organizational skills.

SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION EXERCISED:

May direct workflow in absence of section Supervisor or Operations Coordinator.

MACHINES AND EQUIPMENT USED:

Standard and complex laboratory equipment, standard office equipment; Microsoft programs and information systems for hospital and laboratory (HIS/LIS).

TYPICAL DUTIES:

Media Prep

• Process environmental samples, plate to appropriate media and incubate in proper environment while strictly adhering to quality control and quality assurance protocols. 
• Read bacterial cultures on environmental specimens.
• Perform calculations, input data into LIS, call results to appropriate contacts, as necessary.
• In accordance with broadly-outlined objectives, requirements and approaches: inventory and order supplies, prepare media and reagents, perform and document quality control of media for the Microbiology Laboratory. 
• Record, compute and analyzes data; prepare reports and make recommendations.  Prepare validation data for Quality Assurance file. 
• Assist with review and creation of protocols and documents, create power points, schematics, specifications, designs, charts, graphs, tables, illustrations, photographs; may assist in preparation of materials for publication, teaching, competency testing.
• May direct daily operational workflow in absence of section Supervisor or Operations Coordinator to maintain efficient processes ensuring prompt resolution to problems and adherence to protocols.
• Accountable for shift clean-up and daily check list completion
• May coordinate staffing of assignments to meet departmental priorities
• May participate in training and competency checks for staff
• Participate in meetings with Supervisor and plan/complete departmental initiatives
• Assess work processes and recommend improvements to Supervisor for increased efficiency, cost reduction and problem resolution.

Sample Management

• Track, receive and verify specimens delivered to the laboratory according to department protocols.
• Use of test menu to prioritize sample handling and confirm sample stability/integrity
• Work with healthcare providers to troubleshoot problem samples.
• Receive specimens and ensure sample integrity if testing will be delayed.
• Register patient information into HIS.
• Enters lab test codes as ordered manually or ensures accuracy of electronic orders with appropriate comments added, if required.
• Manage sample storage systems and disposal as specified by laboratory guidelines.

Clerical support

• Answer phone calls and provide routine information according to laboratory test index.
• Transfer calls as needed or take action appropriate to clinician request (ie add-on test requests).
• Electronic scan of requisitions into software program.
• Participate in Quality Assurance data collection, as requested.

Laboratory Technical Support

• Assist technologist in pre-analytical processing of certain tests, which may include centrifugation, separation, storage or aliquot preparation.
• Load blood cultures into analyzer
• Monitor and record temperature, humidity and CO2 for all Microbiology rooms, refrigerators, freezers, incubators.
• Complete Biohazardous Shipping course and assume responsibility for safely packaging clinical specimens and isolates being sent to various reference laboratories.
• Perform QC, preventative maintenance and validations on sophisticated instrumentation. 
• Works with technical team and Supervisors to trouble shoot out of range conditions and documents results as part of laboratory quality control guidelines.

Additional tasks as assigned by Supervisor.

FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Excellent computer and organizational skills. Ability to work weekends and holidays, as assigned.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

Effective interpersonal skills; maintains a friendly and courteous professional manner at all times. Is able to prioritize and maintain focus while performing multiple tasks. Adherence to all University, Division and Department policies, including I CARE. Adherence to all laboratory safety procedures.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

BS degree in Biology or related field preferred, or Associate's degree in appropriate discipline plus 4-5 years specialized experience in related field. 

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.