Clinical Lab Scientist (Microbiology Molecular)
The Clinical Lab Scientist (Microbiology Molecular) at Confidential Client performs and oversees clinical laboratory testing with a focus on microbiology and molecular diagnostics. The role requires adherence to quality control and assurance principles, maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation, and effective communication with healthcare teams to ensure accurate and timely patient test results. This position demands technical expertise, emotional stability, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring a Clinical Lab Scientist (Microbiology / Molecular). As a member of the laboratory team you will perform, troubleshoot, document, and report clinical microbiology and molecular diagnostic testing to support patient care.
- Perform pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical testing in molecular microbiology (PCR, NAATs and related techniques) and clinical microbiology workflows
- Run and maintain automated and manual molecular & microbiology instrumentation; perform routine QC and instrument troubleshooting
- Interpret, validate, and report laboratory results using established procedures and laboratory information systems
- Follow quality assurance and quality control procedures, maintain accurate records, and support performance improvement activities
- Communicate findings and collaborate with healthcare team members, providing technical consultation as needed
- Train and mentor junior staff and contribute to a safe, compliant laboratory environment
Qualifications
Minimum requirements (applicants must meet at least one of the following certification/education routes):
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, microbiology, molecular biology, or a directly related science from an accredited institution
- Certification options (one of the following):
- Generalist certification as an MLS (ASCP BOC) or AMT
- Generalist certification as an MT (ASCP BOR) or AMT
- Categorical or Specialist Microbiology certification (ASCP or AMT) — acceptable for microbiology-specialist roles (see note below)
- U.S. work authorization: Right to work in the U.S. is required; U.S. citizenship may be required per client policy
Exception / temporary route (client-specific):
- Non-certified candidates who meet eligibility routes to sit for ASCP/AMT certification exams may be considered for temporary appointments while pursuing certification; temporary appointments have time limits and supervision requirements.
Grade-level summary (for placement purposes; candidate may be selected within range GS-7 to GS-11 or equivalent):
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Entry (GS-07 equivalent)
- No prior experience beyond basic requirements; requires direct daily supervision and on-the-job development
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Intermediate (GS-09 equivalent)
- 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade OR master’s / 2 years graduate education in medical technology or related science
- Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory policies, QC/QA, equipment maintenance, and ability to complete assignments as part of a team
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Full Performance (GS-11 equivalent)
- 1 year of creditable experience at next lower grade OR 3 years progressively higher-level graduate education or Ph.D. in a directly related field
- Advanced KSAs: independent technical judgment, informatics/lab data flow, instrumentation troubleshooting and repair, interpretation of complex results, and cross-functional communication
Preferred (not required)
- Prior experience in molecular microbiology or clinical microbiology labs
- Experience with laboratory information systems and electronic result reporting
- Strong quality management and troubleshooting skills
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
- Frequent standing, walking within the laboratory and medical center
- Sitting at microscopes/computers for extended periods; manual dexterity and visual acuity required
- Intermittent moderate lifting (15–50 lbs) and light carrying (under 15 lbs)
- Occasional stooping and kneeling; work in environments with ambient noise; hearing aids permitted
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced clinical setting; emotional stability under stress
Compensation & Employment Type
- Employment type: Full time, Permanent
- Salary range: $73,849 - $142,089 per year (range reflects placement across grade levels)
- Confidential Client offers competitive compensation and benefits (details provided by the client during the hiring process)
Notes & Legal / Compliance
- This role may include temporary appointment options for candidates working toward certification; supervision and duration limits apply per client policy.
- All hiring decisions are subject to background checks and client-specific eligibility requirements.
- Confidential Client and Careertakes comply with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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