Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

About the role

Natera is on the lookout for a Lead Clinical Lab Scientist to enhance our specimen analysis processes and assist the lab team in achieving daily production goals. In this pivotal role, you will act as the main point of contact on the lab floor during times when supervisors are not present. You will also play a crucial role in mentoring new staff members on established protocols and ensuring that quality standards are upheld throughout all testing workflows. This position requires regular interaction with protected health information, both in physical and digital formats.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Verify that the correct patient specimens are collected and ensure that the appropriate tests are conducted.
• Execute daily laboratory operations in accordance with standard operating procedures, aiming for minimal errors.
• Maintain high standards of good laboratory practices and promptly report any deviations from established protocols to management.
• Ensure that all case samples are processed, monitored, and finalized within the designated timelines.
• Serve as the lead on the lab floor in the absence of supervisors, providing guidance and support to the team.
• Facilitate the onboarding process for new staff and assist in implementing updated laboratory procedures.
• Collaborate with supervisors and trainers to conduct competency assessments for laboratory personnel.
• Become a subject matter expert for specialized laboratory instruments and testing protocols.
• Identify and troubleshoot equipment issues, escalating more complex problems to the appropriate personnel.
• Oversee the effective implementation of new laboratory procedures and practices.
• Relay team concerns and performance insights to supervisors and management for continuous improvement.
• Provide constructive feedback during staff performance evaluations to foster professional growth.
• Exemplify professionalism and contribute to maintaining a positive team environment.
• Complete mandatory HIPAA and PHI privacy training within the first month of employment.
• Keep abreast of all training requirements set forth by Natera to ensure compliance and skill enhancement.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of experience as a Medical Technologist or in a similar clinical laboratory position.
• A Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Medical Technology, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Possession of an active California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license or Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) license.
• Capability to visually differentiate colors and successfully pass any necessary screening assessments.

Nice to have

• Experience or educational background in Molecular Biology is a plus.

Skills & tools

• Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with team members and management.
• Proficient written communication skills for clear documentation and reporting.
• Strong pipetting skills and attention to detail in laboratory techniques.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve common laboratory issues independently.
• Competence in word processing and data management applications.
• General proficiency in using computers and laboratory software.

Practical notes

• Eligible for an annual performance bonus based on individual and company performance.
• Opportunities for long-term equity awards as part of the compensation package.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employees and their dependents.
• Access to life and disability insurance plans for added security.
• Participation in a 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Generous paid time off policy along with company-recognized holidays.
• Complimentary genetic testing services for employees and their immediate family members.
• Fertility care benefits to support family planning needs.
• Leave options for pregnancy and bonding with newborns.
• Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.
• An employee referral program to encourage team growth through personal networks.
• Natera is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering all qualified applicants regardless of their criminal history in accordance with applicable laws.
• California residents are encouraged to review the Notice of Data Collection available on the Natera website.
• Official recruitment communications will only originate from email addresses ending in @natera.com.