Molecular Technologist
Locations: Pittsburgh, PA
Salary: $57,000-$85,000 - Commensurate with experience
Position Overview
The Molecular Technologist is responsible for performing a variety of laboratory procedures in a high-complexity molecular diagnostics environment, including specimen preparation, molecular testing workflows, histology support, digital pathology imaging, quality control review, and laboratory documentation. This role supports both wet lab and digital pathology operations within a regulated clinical laboratory setting.
Responsibilities include sample and reagent preparation, instrument setup and maintenance, laboratory testing, troubleshooting technical issues, quality assurance activities, and supporting laboratory workflow efficiency in accordance with SOPs, GLP, CLIA/CAP standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.
The ideal candidate will possess strong hands-on laboratory experience in clinical, molecular, pathology, or research laboratory environments and be comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-throughput laboratory setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform specimen preparation, accessioning, batching, storage, and sample management for clinical laboratory workflows
- Prepare reagents, controls, and laboratory materials for molecular and histology testing procedures
- Perform high-complexity laboratory testing in accordance with SOPs and quality standards
- Conduct molecular laboratory techniques and diagnostic testing procedures as assigned
- Support histology workflows including slide cutting, staining, tissue preparation, and specimen handling as needed
- Perform immunofluorescence (IF), immunohistochemistry (IHC), or multiplex staining procedures when applicable
- Conduct digital slide scanning, image analysis, and digital pathology workflow support according to established protocols
- Review patient samples, controls, and testing data to ensure analytical accuracy and compliance with quality standards
- Perform routine quality control review, documentation, and laboratory record maintenance
- Assist with annotation and quality assurance review of digital pathology image analysis following competency validation
- Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and equipment
- Perform routine equipment maintenance, cleaning, and environmental monitoring in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
- Monitor laboratory temperatures, environmental conditions, and quality control metrics on daily, weekly, and monthly schedules
- Utilize laboratory information management systems (LIMS) to manage laboratory workflows and specimen tracking
- Assist with SOP revisions, quality assurance documentation, and continuous process improvement initiatives
- Support inventory management activities including ordering, receiving, tracking, stocking, and reconciliation of laboratory supplies
- Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, archival processes, and compliance with safety protocols
- Communicate technical issues, testing concerns, and workflow updates with laboratory leadership and cross-functional teams
- Support additional laboratory responsibilities and operational tasks as needed
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Clinical Laboratory Science
- Medical Technology
- Molecular Biology
- Or related scientific discipline from an accredited institution
- Minimum 1 year of laboratory experience in:
- Clinical laboratories
- Molecular diagnostics laboratories
- Pathology laboratories
- Research laboratory environments with hands-on bench experience
- Hands-on experience with specimen preparation, laboratory workflows, and sample management
- Experience following SOPs and laboratory quality procedures
- Experience performing quality control review and laboratory documentation
- Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Experience working with biological specimens in laboratory environments
- Experience using laboratory databases or LIMS systems
- Ability to work in fast-paced, high-throughput laboratory operations
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Work Environment
- Majority of time spent in laboratory environments and at computer workstations
- Work may involve prolonged standing, sitting, repetitive motions, and microscope/computer work
- Exposure to chemicals, reagents, and biohazardous materials may occur in designated laboratory areas
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in laboratory environments
- Some work may occur in low-light digital imaging environments
- Fast-paced, high-throughput operational setting requiring strong workflow management and attention to detail
This company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other protected classification under applicable law.