Lead-Clinical Lab Technician-Pathology Clinical Research Unit Lab
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Summary
Join the Clinical Research Unit (CRU) Laboratory within Pathology as a Lead Clinical Laboratory Technician, supporting the specimen processing and laboratory operations essential to clinical research.
Job description
The CRU Laboratory supports more than 100 research protocols and performs protocol-specific specimen processing and management, including Ficoll separation when required, specimen deidentification, data entry and specimen tracking in the Laboratory Data Management System (LDMS), preparation of specimen collection kits, temporary specimen storage, and the packaging, shipping, and tracking of research specimens.
The Lead Clinical Laboratory Technician provides hands-on laboratory support while helping coordinate daily workflow, promote consistent processes, and serve as a resource for the CRU Laboratory team. The position will also collaborate closely with Pathology’s Laboratory Support and Biorepository teams to support coordinated specimen management and research operations across the department.
Job Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with internal/external teams to perform and oversee laboratory support operations.
- Independently perform and oversees complex lab tasks within own area (e.g., pipette calibration and water quality; accurate collection, processing, storage, tracking and shipping of tests; specimen accessioning, evaluation, processing, and distribution).
- Troubleshoot complex problems related to lab support within area and assist in preventive maintenance procedures.
- Oversee and monitor inventory maintenance including receipt and storage of supplies.
- Perform and guide quality control and compliance activities within lab (e.g., documentation, lab maintenance, calibration).
- Train and guide team members around complex lab services activities and address any escalations/deviations.
- Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and institution.
- Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
- Consistently meet job expectations, adhere to policies, and deliver quality work while applying St. Jude values and principles.
Requirements
- High School Diploma required
- Associate's degree preferred
- 8+ years of experience in a clinical lab required
- Experience Exception: Associate's degree with 6+ years of experience
- Substantial experience in relevant complex laboratory procedures and principles preferred
- Significant experience working with laboratory personnel, understanding and supporting complex lab needs preferred
- Experience in assessing and addressing crisis/emergency lab situations through appropriate assistance preferred
- Experience in training team members around lab procedures, safety, and compliance preferred
- Tennessee licensure as Medical Laboratory Technician-General preferred
- Current Hazardous Goods Shipping (HAZGOODS) required within 3 months of joining
Company overview
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a world-renowned pediatric research and treatment institution headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, dedicated to advancing cures for childhood cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Founded in 1962 by entertainer Danny Thomas, it stands as the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted exclusively to children. The hospital operates on a unique funding model where families never receive bills for treatment, travel, housing, or food, with costs exceeding $2 billion annually primarily supported by donations through its fundraising organization ALSAC. St. Jude treats approximately 8,600 patients each year from all 50 states and around the world, with a focus on acute lymphoblastic leukemia, brain tumors, sickle cell disease, and infectious diseases. The institution employs over 7,000 staff members and maintains eight affiliate clinics across the United States. Through its St. Jude Global initiative, the hospital shares research and treatment protocols internationally, partnering with more than 350 institutions in over 90 countries. St. Jude has been instrumental in increasing childhood cancer survival rates from 20% in 1962 to over 80% today, while maintaining a robust research program that includes gene therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and precision medicine approaches.