PCR Laboratory Technician

Molecular Laboratory Technician
Rocky Mountain Laboratories – Austin, TX

About Us
Rocky Mountain Laboratories is a clinical laboratory providing comprehensive laboratory services. We are dedicated to delivering accurate and timely diagnostic information and are committed to improving healthcare outcomes through cutting-edge technology and a customer-focused approach.

Position
We are seeking a Molecular Laboratory Technician to join our Austin clinical laboratory team. This role is best suited for a technician with recent (within the past 12 months), hands-on molecular experience in a CLIA-regulated diagnostic laboratory .

The ideal candidate has independently performed full molecular workflows on human clinical diagnostic specimens , including manual nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, data analysis, and result reporting, and can integrate quickly with minimal ramp-up time.

Research-only or academic laboratory experience does not meet the clinical bench requirements for this role.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular testing (PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR, and/or NGS) on human clinical specimens in a CLIA-regulated laboratory environment, including infectious disease and/or genetic testing panels
• Independently perform full molecular workflows, including specimen accessioning/plating, manual nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, data analysis, and result reporting
• Process and manage moderate- to high-volume daily specimen workflows while maintaining accuracy and turnaround times
• Prepare reagents, controls, and samples with strict adherence to quality standards
• Set up, run, and troubleshoot real-time PCR assays and ensure accurate result interpretation
• Demonstrate clear understanding of PCR workflow steps and quality checkpoints
• Record, analyze, and interpret test results; promptly report abnormalities
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and equipment
• Operate molecular laboratory instrumentation and systems, including real-time PCR platforms (QuantStudio 5/6/12), KingFisher Flex extraction systems, and related molecular lab equipment
• Perform quality control and proficiency testing
• Ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, and other regulatory requirements
• Maintain organized documentation for audits and inspections
• Prioritize tasks to meet turnaround times in a moderate- to high-volume clinical environment
• Collaborate with lab staff and communicate testing updates and issues
• Maintain a clean and safe laboratory workspace
• Assist with training of new or temporary staff as needed
• Support internal audits, continuous improvement initiatives, and special projects as assigned

Required Qualifications
Candidates must meet CLIA requirements for high-complexity testing personnel (42 CFR 493.1489):

• Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology
• OR Associate degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology
• OR 60 semester hours (with at least 24 in biology and chemistry) plus documented training in molecular biology (minimum 3 months) or an accredited clinical laboratory program

(Degrees in non-laboratory fields at any level are not accepted)

Additional Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of recent hands-on experience performing molecular testing on human clinical diagnostic specimens in a CLIA-regulated laboratory
• Minimum 6 months of independent manual nucleic acid extraction experience within the past 12 months
• Demonstrated ownership of full molecular workflows, including specimen preparation/plating, manual nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, data analysis, and result reporting
• Experience setting up and resulting real-time PCR assays (qPCR)
• Ability to clearly articulate hands-on bench responsibilities and workflow steps during interview
• Demonstrated ability to follow protocols and perform high-complexity testing under CLIA
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after onboarding
• Strong attention to detail and consistency
• Reliable and punctual with strong time management skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computer-based data entry
• Clear communication skills and a collaborative team mindset

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing infectious disease molecular testing (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, respiratory panels, STI testing)
• Experience with KingFisher Flex or similar automated extraction platforms
• Experience with QuantStudio 5/6/12 or similar real-time PCR systems
• 2+ years of recent experience in a clinical molecular laboratory
• Experience in moderate- to high-volume testing environments
• Familiarity with CLIA/CAP regulations and quality systems
• ASCP or similar certification
• Experience troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory equipment
• Prior participation in lab inspections, audits, or validations

Compensation & Benefits

Pay: $22–$27/hour, DOE (set by hiring manager)

Benefits for full-time W2 Team Members:
Benefits begin 60 days after the first full month of full-time employment.

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (21 days annually for full-time team members)
• 7 Paid Holidays
• 401(k) with 50% Company Match up to 6% ***
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability (RML covers 60% of STD premium) ***
• Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
• 100% Company-Funded Employee Assistance Program (EAP) ***

Additional Information
If you meet the qualifications and are interested in this position, please submit your resume for consideration. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you meet the above qualifications and are interested in this position, please submit your resume for consideration. We look forward to hearing from you!

At Rocky Mountain Laboratories, we prioritize the care and well-being of our team members.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Rocky Mountain Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in its workforce. We comply with all applicable federal and state laws and prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, disability, or genetic information. We also comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Pre-Employment Notice & E-Verify
Rocky Mountain Laboratories participates in E-Verify.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and other pre-employment screenings, as required.

Employment with Rocky Mountain Laboratories is at-will. This means either the Team Member or the company may end the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable laws. Nothing in this posting or in future communications alters that relationship.

While we appreciate interest from staffing agencies, Rocky Mountain Laboratories does not currently partner with external agencies. Resumes submitted unsolicited will not be considered, and no fees will be paid.

Please only reference our LinkedIn and Indeed pages for current openings: