Micro Tech 3

Summary: The Microbiology Lab Tech III acts as a subject matter expert within the department. This position significantly contributes to the completion of the daily workflow and requires an advanced understanding of all ZRL Microbiology processes including all safety practices, quality control plans, and testing procedures from set-up to reporting. This role requires a significant understanding of the laboratory information system (LIS) as it pertains to microbiology testing, reporting and specimen management. The Tech III is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all microbiology instruments and equipment. Additionally, the Tech III trains colleagues, performs advanced quality control tasks, and completes complex reporting and identification/analyzation processes.

Job Duties: As a SME for the department, perform and train staff on all Microbiology tests, including complex testing such as Fungal & Dermatophyte Cultures as well as all other culture types received in the lab. Understand and follow all ZRL safety procedures and protocols and ensure team members adhere to these policies as well. Participate and lead others in the implementation of the laboratory and ZRL Quality Control plans. Assist in training team colleagues in the laboratory standard operating procedures for set-up and work-up for all Microbiology tests. Understand and interpret guidelines for culture results and assist team members with difficult cases. Understand and utilize the laboratory information system (LIS) including for accessioning, requisition maintenance, test ordering and batch reporting. Capable of performing all reporting of results and manager review in LIS.Handle problem samples and Salesforce tickets, resolving customer complaints, and referrals for medical consults. Complete antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) set-ups and AST result reporting on all laboratory AST platforms. Perform work in accordance with Select Agent Safety Protocols, Select Agent identification and Select Agent reporting requirements. Engage with Medical to resolve customer issues utilizing Salesforce as needed. Engage with Medical Leadership to improve microbiology processes, performance and to resolve customer service issues. Maintain all laboratory instruments including maintenance and troubleshooting. Perform literature reviews to stay current in microbiology topics including antimicrobial drug resistance, updates to CLSI guidelines, emerging infectious diseases, and updates to specific culture techniques. Understand and ensure team compliance to all EH&S biosafety requirements of the lab. Maintain and oversee inventory and ordering of laboratory reagents and consumables.

Technical Skills Required: Proficiency in Microsoft Platforms (Teams, Outlook, Word etc.)Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate with colleagues. Ability to work independently and follow instructions accurately. Advanced in all microbiology culture/molecular techniques including staining techniques, biochemical testing, media requirements, and standard operating procedures for all tests offered. Advanced understanding of culture/PCR assay interpretation guidelines for reporting. Knowledge of Federal/State reportable organisms. Quality Control planning