Technician, Genetics - Full Time Float - Graveyard - Surrey, BC

LifeLabs is the largest community diagnostics laboratory in Canada, serving the healthcare needs of Canadians for over 50 years. Our team members are truly centred around our customers, and we know that behind every lab requisition, sample being tested, or investment in technology is an individual and their family counting on us.

At LifeLabs, the passion and commitment of over 6,000 diverse and innovative team members unites and motivates us to ensure our customers receive high quality tests and results that they can trust.  Agile, customer-centred, caring and teamwork: we live these values every day in what we do to support our customers and healthcare providers, driving forward our vision of empowering a healthier you.

Make a difference – join the LifeLabs team today!

Purpose of the Role: Our Technician, Genetics is responsible for accurate receipt and processing of patient samples, instrument operation and maintenance, and supporting Lab Technologists with standard molecular lab applications to complete clinical testing.

This position is Full Time Float with a Graveyard shift with the Molecular Diagnostics department at Surrey Reference Laboratory, 7455 130th Street, Surrey.This is a full-time position (5 guaranteed shifts/week) with variable shifts by rotation (Sunday-Saturday). They may change with operational needs.
 A minimum of Bachelor of Science Undergraduate degree with focus on Molecular Biology, Genetics or Biochemistry is required for this position. Recent (within the last 5 years) and relevant clinical molecular course work, related work experience, or a combination of education and experience is required.

Core Accountabilities:

Technical

• Receive and accession patient samples
• Perform sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction from various sample types using a variety of advanced laboratory applications and instrumentation
• Perform instrument maintenance and QC
• Perform data entry and sample follow-ups; create CEMs and NCEs
• Assist with standard molecular lab applications including gel electrophoresis and PCR set-up, under the guidance of medical laboratory technologists
• Maintain patient confidentiality
• Report unresolved problems to senior technologist or team lead, as appropriate
• Follow Universal Precautions in handling all specimens received in the laboratory
• Complete all duties following Policies and Procedures as documented
• Ensure confidentiality of patient information
• Use personal protective equipment (e.g. gloves, lab coats) as specified in EHS procedures
• Maintain a clean, safe and orderly work environment Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance
• Maintain and demonstrate technical competence
• Recognize discrepancies and take appropriate action
• Manage the disposal of all laboratory waste as specified in EHS procedures
• Comply with all safety regulations as they relate to the laboratory environment (i.e. WHMIS, TDG, LifeLabs Safety manual) • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives

Minimum Hiring Requirements:

• A minimum of Bachelor of Science Undergraduate degree with focus on Molecular Biology, Genetics or Biochemistry is required for this position. Recent (within the last 5 years) and relevant clinical molecular course work, related work experience, or a combination of education and experience is required.
• Experience with standard molecular lab applications and instrumentation (eg. DNA extraction, micropipetting, PCR set up); good data entry and computer skills.
• Proficient with on- line resources and laboratory information systems.

Apply now!

At LifeLabs, we strive to create an inclusive and equitable workplace where our team members and the communities we serve feel accepted, valued, and respected.

In accordance with LifeLabs’ Accessibility Policy, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and the Ontario Human Rights Code, accommodations are available by request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process. For a confidential inquiry or to request an accommodation, please contact your recruiter or email careers@lifelabs.com.

LifeLabs is committed to providing a safe environment for our employees, customers, and the communities we serve. We have been a leader throughout the COVID-19 pandemic regarding health and safety measures and have always put our employees and customers at the center of every decision that we make. As an organization in the health care sector, we believe the COVID vaccination adds a layer of protection that complements the extensive and necessary health and safety protocols that we have taken to date. With this in mind, we currently require all LifeLabs employees, contractors, students and volunteers to be fully vaccinated.

LifeLabs operates under a distributed workforce model, where employee flexibility is a key priority. Further information will be provided during the interview process on what this means for employees.