Job Description

Job Summary

The Clinical Reference Laboratory Technician position supports the daily operations of the laboratory. This role involves specimen processing, culture preparation, media preparation, quality control, and general laboratory maintenance.



Key Responsibilities

Specimen Processing & Laboratory Support

Receive, log, and prepare clinical specimens for testing.
Electronic data entry of specimens (isolates).
Perform culture inoculation, staining (e.g., acid-fast, Gram stain), and basic microbiological techniques.
Assist in molecular and antimicrobial susceptibility testing workflows by preparing reagents, media, and testing plates.
Maintain detailed documentation of forms in accordance with laboratory protocols.
Testing Report Submission & Customer Communication

Assist with the submission of completed testing reports to hospitals, and other laboratory clients.
Ensure accuracy and completeness of test reports before they are sent to customers.
Communicate with the customer to clarify requisition and test report details as needed.
Quality Control & Compliance

Perform routine quality control (QC) checks on media, reagents, and equipment to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Assist with quality assurance parameter tracking of isolates.
Follow biosafety level (BSL-2 and BSL-3) procedures when handling infectious agents.
Maintain strict adherence to CLIA, CAP, and laboratory accreditation guidelines.
Equipment & Laboratory Maintenance

Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, incubators, biosafety cabinets, and microscopes.
Conduct regular cleaning, decontamination, and waste disposal following biosafety protocols.
Assist in inventory management and ordering, ensuring sufficient stock of supplies, reagents, and consumables.
Collaboration & Communication

Work closely with laboratory technologists and supervisors to support testing workflows and troubleshoot issues.
Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and laboratory improvement initiatives.
Communicate effectively with laboratory staff and other personnel regarding specimen processing and testing status.
Responsible for other duties as assigned.
Media Lab Document Control and LIS Maintenance

Monitors documents in Media Lab for expiration dates, ensures all laboratory staff have read and signed off on documents as needed.
Ensures Laboratory Directors have approved all documents prior to obtaining staff signatures.
Ensures required documentation is up to date as related to laboratory accreditation.
Required Education/Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required.


Preferred Education/Experience

Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, medical laboratory science, or a related field preferred.
Prior laboratory experience in a clinical microbiology or research setting for at least 1 year preferred.


Accompanying Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies

Understanding of basic microbiology techniques, including culture handling, staining, and microscopy preferred.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to follow SOPs accurately.
Proficiency in data entry and documentation.
Ability to work in a team environment and adapt to evolving laboratory needs.