Clinical Laboratory Scientist

CLINICAL LAB SCIENTIST

Job Description

Apply advanced knowledge of clinical lab testing to perform independent work and train others. Adapt and modify lab methods to solve complex problems and validate new tests. Handle sample processing, including integrity checks, data verification, and bacterial culturing. Send samples to CDC and regional labs for specialized testing. Conduct small animal necropsies and prepare brain samples for rabies testing. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of lab instruments, including MALDI-ToF and Illumina MiSeq. Perform whole genome sequencing and analyze data using bioinformatics tools like Bionumerics and BugSeq. Document patient and testing data per CLIA regulations, and write SOPs and validation studies. Promote and troubleshoot quality control, initiate corrective actions, and support QA/QI efforts. Monitor reagent inventory and expiration, and recommend equipment upgrades as needed. Oversee testing operations for microbiology, bioterrorism response, and quality assurance programs.

Responsibilities

• Perform independent clinical lab testing and train others.
• Adapt and modify lab methods to solve complex problems.
• Validate new tests and handle sample processing.
• Verify data and perform bacterial culturing.
• Send samples to CDC and regional labs for specialized testing.
• Conduct small animal necropsies and prepare brain samples for rabies testing.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot lab instruments.
• Perform whole genome sequencing and analyze data using bioinformatics tools.
• Document patient and testing data per CLIA regulations.
• Write SOPs and validation studies.
• Promote and troubleshoot quality control and support QA/QI efforts.
• Monitor reagent inventory and recommend equipment upgrades.
• Oversee microbiology, bioterrorism response, and quality assurance programs.

Essential Skills

• Advanced knowledge of microbiology and laboratory processing.
• Experience with clinical lab testing and reporting diagnoses.
• Ability to perform diagnostic testing on human samples.
• Minimum of 4 years experience in TB, mycology, microbiology, and/or bacteriology.
• Experience in a CLIA regulated or CAP accredited role.
• Proficiency in operating lab instruments like MALDI-ToF and Illumina MiSeq.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, clinical lab science, or a related field—or equivalent education and experience.
• Prior testing experience in both public health and clinical testing laboratories.
• Certification as MLS or MLT by ASCP or AMT is highly desirable.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Iowa City, IA.

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Iowa City,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 24, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $26 - $28