Description

The Microbiologist performs routine and specialized microbiological testing in a CLIA-certified laboratory environment. Responsibilities include culture isolation and identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, quality control procedures, data analysis, and customer support related to laboratory services and test results.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological culture techniques for isolation, identification, and characterization of bacterial and fungal organisms.
• Perform testing, including sample processing, plate inoculation, incubation, readout, interpretation support, documentation, and data entry into LIS/LIMS.
• Conduct antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) using standardized methods including broth microdilution and disk diffusion in accordance with CLSI guidelines.
• Interpret and report susceptibility results accurately and within established turnaround times.
• Perform multiplex molecular microbiology testing for pathogen ID (nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, and other amplification-based assays).
• Maintain compliance with CLIA, CAP, OSHA, and laboratory quality management requirements.
• Prepare, inoculate, incubate, and evaluate culture media and microbiological specimens.
• Perform quality control and quality assurance procedures for instruments, reagents, and testing processes.
• Document laboratory activities, test results, and corrective actions according to laboratory protocols.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and assist with method validation and verification studies.
• Communicate test results and technical information to clients, healthcare professionals, and internal stakeholders.
• Provide exceptional customer service by responding to inquiries regarding testing procedures, results interpretation, specimen requirements, and laboratory services.
• Participate in proficiency testing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper inventory management of supplies and reagents.
• Supervise laboratory operations and personnel.

• All laboratory process steps across:
  • Specimen collection services
  • Specimen accessioning and processing
  • Analytical testing including LDTs
  • Result reporting and post-analytical review
  • Client services/customer support

•   Ensure operational efficiency, turnaround time (TAT) performance, and scalability.
•   Implement lean workflows and process improvements across all lab functions.
•   Establish KPIs and dashboards to monitor productivity, quality, and service levels.

1.     Regulatory & Quality Compliance

•   Ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, state (e.g., Texas), and other applicable regulatory requirements.
•   Partner with Quality leadership to maintain a robust Quality Management System (QMS).
•   Oversee validation/verification of LDT assays
•   Ensure inspection readiness and successful accreditation outcomes.

2.     Research & Development Integration

•   Facilitate the operational transfer of research assays into clinical production.
•   Collaborate with R&D, medical, and scientific leadership to:
  • Define validation strategies
  • Establish SOPs and workflows
  • Scale testing capabilities
•   Ensure seamless handoff from development to regulated clinical environment.

3.     Supply Chain & Inventory Management

•   Oversee procurement, vendor management, and inventory control.
•   Ensure uninterrupted supply of reagents, consumables, and equipment.
•   Negotiate vendor contracts and manage cost efficiencies.
•   Implement inventory tracking systems and forecasting models.

4.     Customer Service & Client Experience

•   Oversee client services team to ensure high-quality support for providers and partners.
•   Monitor and improve customer satisfaction metrics.
•   Address escalations and ensure timely resolution of client issues.
•   Collaborate with commercial teams to support growth and retention.

5.     Technology & Systems Oversight

•   Ensure effective use of LIMS, Media Lab QMS software, middleware, and reporting systems.
•   Partner with IT to enhance automation, data integrity, and interoperability.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of prior microbiology laboratory operations experience required.
• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, or related scientific field.
• Experience working in a CLIA-certified clinical, reference, or diagnostic laboratory.
• Hands-on experience with antimicrobial susceptibility testing, including broth microdilution and disk diffusion methodologies.
• Knowledge of CLSI standards and microbiological testing procedures.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced laboratory environment.