What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Technician I - Forensic Biology position at State of Massachusetts?
Candidate performs support functions within the Forensic Biology Unit to the extent trained and/or authorized. Through a formal training program, incumbents:
-Complete comprehensive training in assigned tasks including preparing solutions to be used in testing, and operating laboratory equipment.
-Develop proficiency in applying established protocols and procedures, including, but not limited to, administrative, quality assurance, quality control, safety, and test-specific methods/protocols as outlined in laboratory manuals and directives.
-Handle chemicals and prepare solutions as necessary, taking appropriate safety precautions.
-Maintains the cleanliness and safety of laboratory according to established standards and procedures utilizing procedures such as disposing of contaminants, washing and sterilizing glassware and inspecting temperature control equipment.
-Conduct quality control testing on equipment, reagents, and solutions.
-Calibrate laboratory equipment by following documented procedures and laboratory protocols, ensuring that equipment is functioning within the operating parameters set for achieving valid test results and analytical outcomes.
-Adhere to quality assurance measures and accreditation standards as mandated by all applicable rules, policies, protocols, and procedures
-Inventory Unit supplies and reagents.
-Perform Quality Control (QC) duties (including autoclaving, instrument calibrations, solution preparation and QC analytical methods).
-Generate QC files documenting procedures performed and generate graphical representation of data.
-Assist with the troubleshooting of problematic instrumentation or reagents.
-Assist with performance checks of DNA instrumentation.
-Sample handling/preparation for further analysis (e.g., convicted offender sample preparation/ punching, etc., preparation of samples for Y-screen DNA quantification).
-Utilize appropriate techniques to avoid contamination.
-For quality control and/ or convicted offender samples conduct DNA analysis using extraction, quantitation, amplification, fragment analysis using capillary electrophoresis
-Assist with validation projects.
-Perform administrative reviews on case files and reports.
-Perform tasks as assigned by the CODIS unit
-Send out biological evidence to an external DNA Testing laboratory.
-Undergo periodic reviews to affirm that training benchmarks are being met and to satisfactorily complete all proficiency and competency tests required to successfully complete the training program.
-Incumbent receives direct supervision from employees of higher grade at the Forensic Scientist II or higher.