Lab Scientist/Extraction Specialist

JOB OVERVIEW

The Extraction Specialist is responsible for specimen accessioning, preparation, and extraction utilizing liquid-handling instruments and automated solid phase extraction methods in a high-throughput production laboratory environment where work is assessed based on speed, accuracy, quantity, and overall quality. This position requires a high level of attention to detail, where accuracy and precision are essential to ensure the highest quality standards are maintained.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Accession specimens (urine, oral fluid, plasma, and PCR) into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) by entering patient data, specimen information, medication lists, ordered tests, and point-of-care results into the LIS – manual data entry may be required for some specimens
• Ensure specimen integrity by verifying that specimens are labeled appropriately and that identifying information on the specimen matches identifying information on accompanying documentation and/or electronic orders
• Correctly identify specimens that do not meet criteria for testing and specimens that need to be placed on hold for missing information
• Pipet (aliquot) accessioned urine specimens into appropriate test tubes to prepare for testing and storage
• Prepare urine and oral fluid specimens for extraction and testing using established standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Prepare calibrators and quality controls for extraction
• Perform required weekly, monthly, and as needed maintenance on instruments and analyzers, including automated liquid handlers and solid phase extraction (SPE) robots; troubleshoot issues as needed
• Accurately aliquot specimens and controls into labeled 96-well plates and test tubes using single-channel, multi-channel, and variable-volume pipettes or use liquid-handling instruments
• Document steps performed in the process to track completion times, temperatures, and instruments used per CLIA and CAP regulations; notify appropriate personnel of any issues throughout the extraction process
• Prepare solutions for manual and automated solid phase extraction – requires performing calculations related to basic chemistry and properly calibrate and use a pH meter when needed
• Perform automated solid phase extractions on urine and oral fluid specimens utilizing lab instruments
• Learn the purpose of each step in the extraction process to better understand the overall process and become effective at troubleshooting
• Cross-train and learn the basics of other roles and instruments in the Initial Testing team, such as enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to be able to assist with instrument maintenance and operation as needed
• Document room temperature, humidity levels, reagents, and controls per CLIA and CAP regulations
• Stock and refill specimens, reagents, inventory, and supplies for lab operations throughout the day
• Dispose of urine and oral fluid specimens that have reached their retention date
• Communicate effectively with other departments about issues regarding specimen processing
• Complete general lab tasks as needed
• Aid in training and any special projects (AMR studies, validations, proficiency testing, CAP inspections, etc.) that arise throughout the year
• Meet established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for speed, accuracy, quantity, and overall quality
• Other duties as assigned

DIRECT REPORTS

• None

This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.