Medical Laboratory Assistant, Medical Genetics

Sinai Health is looking for an experienced Medical Laboratory Assistant for our Medical Genetics department.

**About the Diagnostic Medical Genetics team**
The Diagnostic Medical Genetics Laboratory at Mount Sinai Hospital is a hub for cutting-edge diagnostic testing and innovative method and test development. We are dedicated to improving patient care through a deeper understanding of genetics. Equipped with advanced technologies, the lab offers a wide range of genetic and genomic testing, supporting diverse clinical needs across various specialties. A collaborative spirit thrives within the lab, bringing together a team of skilled professionals, including geneticists, genetic counselors, variant analysts, bioinformaticians, medical laboratory technologists (MLT) and technicians. This team is united by a shared passion for unraveling the complexities of genetic disorders, pioneering new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and ultimately, making a tangible difference in the lives of patients and their families.

**In this role you will**:

- Follow universal body precautions in handling all specimens received in the laboratory
- Perform automated and manual DNA and RNA extraction from blood, fresh tissue, fluids and formiln fixed paraffin embedded tissue samples
- Perform quantification procedures as outlined in the laboratory procedures manual to aid in diagnosis and management of patients
- Accession and log specimens into the Laboratory Information System in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Management System
- Prepare samples to send out to other laboratories
- Label patient samples, documents and transfer tubes/vessels with accession numbers
- Scan requisitions into the Laboratory Information System
- Prepare documents for transfer to a storage facility
- Practice sterile technique
- Set up, feed and maintain blood culture samples
- Perform blood culture harvest
- Assist in inventory control of reagents and supplies
- Prepare reagents and solutions applicable to tests performed
- Prepare QC aliquots Operates, and performs routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and reports any malfunctions to the technologists
- Perform quality control checks, preventative maintenance procedures and basic troubleshooting on extraction instruments
- Prioritize work and contributes to meeting the operational targets of the department
- Assist with training and orientation of new staff
- Report unresolved problems to the senior technical staff
- Prioritize work and respond to urgent or unpredicted demands for specimen processing or testing
- Read and maintain understanding of relevant policy and procedure manuals
- Assist in the maintenance of the work station. Maintains a clean and tidy work area
- Monitor inventory and supplies
- Participates in annual Safety programs (W.H.M.I.S., Fire Prevention)
- Perform other duties consistent with the job classification as required
- Job Requirements

**Job Requirements**:
Mandatory
- Graduate of a Medical Laboratory Assistant program or equivalent (e.g. Bachelor of Science)
- Certification of Medical Laboratory Assistant (OSMT) or equivalent (e.g. Bachelor of Science) 6 months of experience in genetics techniquesSkills and Knowledge
- Knowledgeable of Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (W.H.M.I.S.) and accessibility of Material Safety Data Sheets (M.S.D.S.)
- Knowledgeable of safety practices when handling biological specimens (transportation of dangerous goods regulations and guidelines)
- Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively and communicate effectively in a team environment
- Demonstrated satisfactory work performance and attendance record

**Note**: In accordance with accreditation standards, employment is conditional upon applicant demonstrating proof of visual colour discrimination ability pertinent to the essential duties of the job.