Clinical Laboratory Associate

SAGA Diagnostics is a personalized cancer diagnostics and disease monitoring company focused on molecular genetic analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) based in Research Triangle Park (RTP). The company’s mission is to improve precision cancer medicine, provide more accurate treatment monitoring, and improve patient survival using minimally-invasive liquid biopsy cancer testing services. SAGA’s proprietary tests can help patients, oncologists, and drug developers detect actionable mutations, stratify patient groups, and monitor treatment response, residual disease, and disease recurrence at unprecedented sensitivity and scale.

SAGA Diagnostics is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Associate to join our growing operations team. The Clinical Laboratory Associate is a vital member of the laboratory team, responsible for supporting daily operations by performing a variety of technical and administrative tasks. This role requires precision, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will assist with tasks ranging from sample accessioning and plasma pooling to setting up workstations and assisting with laboratory maintenance. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Sample Accessioning: 

• Receive, verify, and log incoming specimens according to established protocols. 

• Ensure accurate labeling and documentation of samples. 

• Handle and prepare samples for analysis, ensuring they meet quality and safety standards. 

Plasma Pooling: 

• Assist in the process of plasma pooling, following standard operating procedures. 

• Maintain accurate records of pooled samples and ensure compliance with laboratory guidelines. 

Workstation and Samples Setup: 

• Safely and efficiently thaw biological samples as required for laboratory testing. 

• Monitor thawing processes and ensure samples are ready for subsequent testing steps. 

• Prepare and organize workstations with necessary equipment, reagents, and supplies. 

• Ensure all equipment is properly calibrated and ready for use. 

Quality Control: 

• Participate in routine quality control procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results. 

• Report any deviations or issues immediately to the Laboratory Supervisor/Manager. 

Laboratory Maintenance: 

• Assist with general laboratory maintenance tasks, including cleaning and maintenance of simple equipment and work areas. 

• Monitor inventory levels of supplies and reagents and assist with ordering as needed. 

Compliance and Safety: 

• Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. 

• Participate in ongoing training and development to stay current with laboratory best practices. 

Other Duties as Assigned: 

• Assist with additional tasks and special projects as needed to support the laboratory team. 

Requirements

Education: 

• High school diploma or equivalent required. 

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field preferred. 

Experience: 

• Previous experience in a clinical laboratory setting is preferred. 

• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and procedures is an asset. 

Skills: 

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. 

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, Laboratory Information Systems). 

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks. 

• Ability to lift and carry items up to 25 pounds. 

Working Conditions: 

• Work is performed in a clinical laboratory setting. 

• Exposure to biological samples and hazardous materials; appropriate safety measures must be followed. 

• May require evening or weekend shifts based on operational needs. 

Benefits

Primary location: Morrisville, North Carolina

Classifcation: Full Time, Non-Exempt, On-Site

Saga Diagnostics is an equal opportunity employer, fully committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces and encourages applicants of every background.  The company’s policy regarding equal employment opportunity means that all decisions regarding recruitment, hiring, benefits, wage and salary administration, scheduling, disciplinary action and termination will be made without unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex, gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing an application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to hr@sagadiagnostics.com.