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Laboratory Scientist II - Newborn Screening/Biochemical Genetics - Job Opportunity at Alberta Precision Labs

Edmonton, Canada
Full-time
Senior
Posted: June 19, 2025
On-site
CAD 43.38-57.63 per hour

Benefits

Comprehensive healthcare coverage through Alberta's public healthcare system supplemented by employer health benefits providing enhanced medical, dental, and vision coverage that exceeds standard provincial offerings
Stable employment with a crown corporation offering exceptional job security and protection against economic volatility, particularly valuable in today's uncertain job market
Access to advanced laboratory facilities and cutting-edge instrumentation including high-end mass spectrometry equipment, providing unparalleled professional development opportunities
Union representation through HSAA providing strong advocacy for workplace rights, competitive wage negotiations, and comprehensive grievance procedures
Professional development opportunities within Alberta's largest integrated laboratory network, offering exposure to diverse testing methodologies and advanced technologies
Pension benefits through public sector retirement plans providing superior long-term financial security compared to private sector offerings

Key Responsibilities

Lead the strategic implementation of innovative testing methodologies and advanced analytical platforms, directly impacting the early detection and treatment of rare genetic disorders in newborns across Alberta
Drive research and development initiatives that advance the laboratory's capabilities in biochemical genetics testing, positioning the facility as a leader in metabolic disorder diagnosis
Provide expert technical oversight ensuring compliance with rigorous accreditation standards, maintaining the laboratory's reputation for excellence and regulatory compliance
Mentor and develop laboratory staff through advanced training programs, building organizational capacity and ensuring knowledge transfer of specialized techniques
Execute complex patient testing using sophisticated instrumentation including LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, and HPLC systems, directly contributing to life-saving early interventions
Spearhead the integration of new technologies and instrumentation, enhancing laboratory efficiency and expanding diagnostic capabilities
Develop comprehensive training procedures and standard operating procedures that ensure consistent quality and facilitate knowledge sharing across the organization

Requirements

Education

Master of Medical Laboratory Science degree or Master of Science degree in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology, chemistry or related discipline

Experience

Minimum 5 years of laboratory experience in biochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, analytical chemistry, or related discipline

Required Skills

Extensive experience using GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, HPLC, and spectrophotometry Demonstrated experience in leadership and project management Test method development and validation with mass spectrometry technologies Advanced knowledge of clinical laboratory validation standards and statistical techniques Competency with quality control, maintenance and troubleshooting activities Experience developing standard operating procedures and training Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office Strong interpersonal skills to work both independently and as part of a team Proven critical thinking, analytical, problem solving, planning, and decision-making skills Strong attention to detail as well as time management skills with the ability to prioritize work under stressful conditions English fluency with exceptional verbal and written skills
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The clinical laboratory industry is experiencing unprecedented growth in genetic testing and personalized medicine, with newborn screening programs expanding globally as healthcare systems recognize the cost-effectiveness of early intervention. This trend is driving demand for specialized laboratory scientists who can operate sophisticated analytical instrumentation and interpret complex biochemical data. The integration of mass spectrometry technologies in routine clinical testing has revolutionized metabolic disorder detection, creating a specialized niche requiring highly trained professionals. Automation and digitalization are transforming laboratory operations, with increased emphasis on data management, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. Laboratory scientists are increasingly expected to possess project management skills and the ability to implement new technologies while maintaining rigorous quality standards. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of advanced laboratory technologies and highlighted the critical importance of robust public health laboratory infrastructure.

Salary Evaluation

The hourly rate of CAD 43.38-57.63 translates to approximately CAD 90,000-120,000 annually, which is competitive for senior laboratory scientist positions in Canada's public healthcare system. This compensation package, when combined with comprehensive public sector benefits, pension contributions, and job security, represents total compensation value equivalent to CAD 110,000-140,000 in the private sector. The salary reflects the specialized nature of the role and the significant responsibility for provincial newborn screening programs.

Role Significance

Typically leads a specialized team of 3-8 laboratory technologists and junior scientists within the broader Genetics & Genomics department, collaborating closely with clinical geneticists, genetic counselors, and healthcare providers across Alberta's integrated health system.
This is a senior-level position requiring advanced technical expertise and leadership capabilities, positioning the incumbent as a subject matter expert within Alberta's provincial laboratory network. The role carries significant responsibility for program development, staff mentorship, and maintaining critical healthcare services that directly impact patient outcomes across the province.

Key Projects

Implementation of expanded newborn screening panels incorporating new genetic markers and metabolic disorders Validation and deployment of next-generation analytical platforms for improved sensitivity and throughput Development of automated sample processing workflows to enhance laboratory efficiency Research collaborations with academic institutions on novel biomarker discovery and method development

Success Factors

Deep technical expertise in mass spectrometry applications combined with strong project management skills to successfully implement complex analytical methods while meeting regulatory requirements and timelines Exceptional attention to detail and quality consciousness, as errors in newborn screening can have life-altering consequences for patients and families across Alberta Strong leadership and mentoring abilities to develop team capabilities and ensure knowledge transfer in a highly specialized field where expertise is concentrated among few individuals Adaptability and continuous learning mindset to stay current with rapidly evolving technologies and expanding test menus in genetic and metabolic testing

Market Demand

High demand driven by expanding genetic testing programs, aging laboratory workforce approaching retirement, and increasing complexity of diagnostic testing requirements in personalized medicine.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Mass spectrometry expertise is absolutely essential as these technologies form the backbone of modern metabolic disorder testing, and proficiency in LC-MS/MS and GC-MS operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting directly determines the laboratory's ability to provide accurate and timely results for life-critical testing programs Method development and validation skills are crucial for maintaining laboratory accreditation and expanding testing capabilities, as regulatory requirements continue to evolve and new biomarkers are discovered for genetic disorders Leadership and project management abilities are critical for success in this role, as the incumbent must coordinate complex implementation projects while mentoring staff and maintaining daily operations in a high-stakes clinical environment

Beneficial Skills

Advanced statistical analysis capabilities would enhance the incumbent's ability to contribute to research initiatives and publication opportunities, potentially leading to recognition as a thought leader in the field Experience with laboratory information systems and automation technologies would be valuable as the industry continues to digitize and automate routine processes, positioning the incumbent for advancement into management roles Understanding of health economics and cost-effectiveness analysis would be beneficial for justifying new program implementations and demonstrating value to healthcare administrators and policymakers

Unique Aspects

This role combines clinical laboratory operations with research and development activities, offering rare exposure to both routine diagnostic testing and cutting-edge method development in a single position
Direct involvement in Alberta's provincial newborn screening program provides the opportunity to impact thousands of families annually through early detection and intervention for rare genetic disorders
Access to a comprehensive suite of advanced analytical instrumentation within a single laboratory, providing expertise development opportunities that would typically require multiple job changes in smaller facilities
Integration within Alberta's academic health sciences network provides unique opportunities for research collaboration, publication, and professional recognition within the Canadian laboratory medicine community

Career Growth

Career advancement to management positions typically occurs within 3-5 years given the specialized expertise and leadership experience gained in this role, with potential for rapid progression due to the growing demand for experienced laboratory leaders in Canada's healthcare system.

Potential Next Roles

Laboratory Manager or Section Chief overseeing multiple specialty laboratories within Alberta Precision Labs Clinical Laboratory Director with responsibility for strategic planning and regulatory oversight Senior Research Scientist or Principal Investigator leading research initiatives in academic medical centers Consultant or Technical Director for laboratory equipment manufacturers or diagnostic companies

Company Overview

Alberta Precision Labs

Alberta Precision Labs represents Canada's largest integrated laboratory network, formed through the consolidation of laboratory services across Alberta's health system. As a crown corporation, APL operates with the stability and resources of government backing while maintaining the operational flexibility to adopt innovative technologies and methodologies. The organization serves over 4.4 million Albertans through a comprehensive network of facilities and specialized testing services.

APL holds a dominant position as the primary provider of laboratory services in Alberta, with significant influence in shaping laboratory medicine standards across Western Canada. The organization's scale and integration provide unique opportunities for career development and exposure to diverse laboratory disciplines that would not be available in smaller, independent laboratories.
This position at the University of Alberta Hospital places the incumbent at the heart of Alberta's academic health sciences center, providing access to cutting-edge research opportunities, clinical collaborations, and professional development resources. The location offers significant advantages in terms of continuing education, networking, and career advancement within Canada's healthcare and research communities.
The organization emphasizes evidence-based practice, continuous quality improvement, and collaborative teamwork across disciplines. The academic hospital setting fosters a culture of innovation and professional development, with opportunities for research participation, publication, and presentation at professional conferences.
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