Molecular Technologist (Healthcare Intermediate Professional)

Job Summary:

A full-time Molecular Technologist (MT) position is available in the Colorado Molecular Correlates (CMOCO) Laboratory in the Department of Pathology at University of Colorado Denver. The MT will be involved in various laboratory procedures including analysis of clinical samples by molecular biology methods with a focus on assays including, but not limited to, DNA sequencing, real-time PCR and next generation DNA and RNA sequencing (NGS). This position will involve testing of human tumor and blood samples for genetic changes in a clinical laboratory environment. The MT will be primarily involved in clinical testing and may be involved in the development of new clinical assays.

The MT's duties will include a variety of laboratory functions. Laboratory duties may be assigned involving analysis of clinical and research samples, including but not limited to: microdissection, TNA extraction, various molecular assays including sequencing, real-time PCR, next generation sequencing, data analysis, assay result interpretation, and proper maintenance and management of laboratory records. The MT will also participate in quality control/quality assurance activities, as well as general lab duties such as reagent lot validation and inventory management. The MT will also be assigned various laboratory maintenance projects. The laboratory operates in compliance with CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act) standards and inspected by the CAP (College of American Pathologists). As such, the candidate should have knowledge of the requirements for working in a clinical laboratory environment, and any previous experience in a clinical laboratory, ISO certified laboratory or laboratory carrying other certifications is preferred.

Examples of Work Performed:

• (15%) Performs nucleic acid extraction (DNA and/or RNA) on fixed tissues, blood, or bone marrow.
• (5%) Utilizes appropriate equipment with precision for all molecular diagnostic protocols.
• (50%) Performs complex molecular diagnostic techniques and demonstrates competency with pipetting and PCR techniques.
• (5%) Performs computer data entry, recall, accessioning, receiving, and labeling on complex pathology network (LIS).
• (5%) Performs routine preventative maintenance, cleaning, and minor adjustments on all lab equipment.
• (2%) Prepares and examine solutions for contamination, impurities, or instability.
• (2%) Follows procedures on all lab tests.
• (2%) Retrieves and stores specimens properly for long term storage.
• (2%) Assists in maintaining accreditation standards, to include all check sheets and quality control information sheets.
• (2%) Performs all procedures in a timely manner.
• (2%) Assists in the ordering of laboratory supplies to maintain proper inventory.
• (2%) Knowledgeable of all lab procedures and specimen submission requirements.
• (2%) Understand and use proper safety practices.
• (2%) Complete all UCD required training and compliance courses.
• (2%) Perform other duties as assigned.

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

Welcome to the Department of Pathology of the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus. The Department has grown substantially in the past 15 years, from 40 to 120 faculty in parallel with the remarkable growth of our hospital based affiliates as well as the city and county of Denver. Our work is value driven and focused on scientific investigation, lifelong learning and a balance of personal and professional values. In addition to a vibrant and highly competitive residency program with 25 positions, we offer 9 fellowships and participate in numerous graduate school and the MD/PhD program of the CU School of Medicine. Our faculty and staff are diverse and gender balanced, with women comprising 50% of our residents, Assistant, Associate and Full Professors (including those with tenure).

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options
• Dental: Multiple plan options
• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 10/year
• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnically minoritized individuals, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. In addition, the Anschutz Campus has also been recognized as an Age-Friendly University. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in a biological, health or social science or a directly related field from an accredited institution.
• One (1) year of molecular biology laboratory experience
  
  
  
  • A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis.
  
  
  
  

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Molecular Technologist Certification (ASCP).
• Previous experience in a clinical molecular diagnostics lab.
• Experience with next generation sequencing (NGS).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• A good theoretical understanding of the molecular biology techniques including but not limited to: nucleic acid isolation and PCR techniques
• Highly motivated individual looking to pursue a long-term career in molecular diagnostics.
• Excellent interpersonal skills where customer service and responsibility to patient care is the priority.
• Self-starter that demonstrates the ability to work individually with minimal supervision as well as part of a team of technologists, show proficiency at solving complex problems, and exhibit excellent computer skills (all Microsoft products).
• Willing and capable of learning new techniques relating to molecular pathology.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to establish rapport with persons of diverse backgrounds which also includes experience working with students, staff, and faculty, within a higher education and/or academic medical environment.
• Ability to interpret complex rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Ability to listen and follow precise protocols and written instructions.
• Demonstrated ability to organize workload, file correctly by alphabetical and numerical order.
• Must possess a professional demeanor and have experience that demonstrates problem solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Detail oriented, self-motivated, a fast learner and possess excellent time management, organizational, written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to take direction and use independent judgment to coordinate and meet multiple deadlines.
• Familiarity with HIPAA and security compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion.

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. Curriculum vitae / Resume

2. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to: Path HR at PathHR@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by February 10, 2025. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $61,546-$78,287

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.