Embryologist Associate

Columbia University • Full-time • New York, New York State, United States • $80k - $90k / year • 3w ago

Job Type: Officer of Administration
Bargaining Unit:
Regular/Temporary: Regular
End Date if Temporary:
Hours Per Week: 35
Standard Work Schedule:
Building:
Salary Range: 80,000 - 90,000

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

Columbia University Fertility Center offers innovative and personalized fertility treatments in a supportive, state-of-the-art clinical environment.

We are seeking a motivated Embryologist Associate to join the Fertility Center’s Embryology Laboratory as a key team member. In this role, the Embryologist Associate will have the opportunity to expand their clinical laboratory experience through training in performing a range of embryology laboratory procedures.

The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, possess strong organizational skills, and be a proactive team player, eager to learn, improve, and collaborate effectively with others. Experience in a clinical laboratory setting performing clinical embryology procedures is required and a Master’s degree in Embryology or Reproductive Biology is preferred.

Responsibilities

Train under direct supervision to perform all aspects of embryology procedures as directed by the Laboratory Supervisor and/or Director, including semen preparation for ICSI and IVF; oocyte retrievals; fertilization checks; oocyte denudation; assisted hatching; embryo assessment and grading; embryo selection for transfer; biopsy procedures; and egg/embryo cryopreservation and warming.
Maintain an accurate training record of all embryology procedures.
Preparation of patient charts, ART worksheets, culture dishes for egg retrievals, inseminations, embryo culture, and embryo transfers.
Assist with regular inventory checks of consumables and media.
Contribute to the accurate recording of patient information by collecting data and entering into the electronic medical records (EMR).
Perform specimen chain of custody, documentation, and witness procedures.
Support the embryology laboratory maintenance by assisting with daily cleaning, equipment upkeep, quality control, clerical tasks, and adherence to safety protocols, ensuring the laboratory is clean and compliant with regulatory standards.
Participate in the weekend rotation schedule as required.
Perform quality control checks within the laboratory to ensure equipment and procedures meet established standards.
Follow safety protocols, including proper hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Engage with visitors, vendors, faculty, and staff in a courteous, professional, and ethical manner.
Perform other tasks within the scope of practice, training, and education as assigned.

People

Be a team player, eager to learn, improve and collaborate with others.
Have great attention to detail
Exhibit strong organizational skills to effectively manage tasks and responsibilities.

Strategy and Continuous Improvement

Foster a team culture focused on learning and continuous improvement, contributing ideas for enhancing laboratory workflows to both team members and management.
Engage in projects and special assignments to support departmental or divisional strategies and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Take proactive steps to address patient safety and experience concerns within the scope of your practice, training, and education.
Assist in preparation for inspections by providing administrative and operational support to laboratory management and colleagues as needed.
Ensure a safe and secure work environment by adhering to all relevant policies and guidelines, including OSHA, EH&S, NYDOH, and public safety standards.
Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA requirements at all times.
Stay up to date on organizational, departmental, and patient privacy policies, including infection control and HIPAA, as well as required training.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or related field is required.
3 years’ experience in an embryology laboratory setting performing clinical embryology procedures.
Strong detail-orientation and organizational and problem-solving skills, including the ability to prioritize, multitask, and work independently with consistent follow-through.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including a service orientation. Ability to interact positively and constructively with patients, visitors, providers, and colleagues, demonstrating tact, empathy, and respect. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, verbally and in writing.
Team orientation, demonstrating collaboration, inclusion, reliability, punctuality, and adaptability to new and changing situations.
Self-motivated and demonstrates initiative, patience, and resourcefulness in adapting to changes.
Project management skills, including ability to organize and execute technical project activities, apply attention to detail, effectively coordinate and communicate with stakeholders, and report on progress.
Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and respectful manner while appreciating the unique contributions of an inclusive workforce that brings together the talents of people across multiple identities.
Strong commitment to fostering diversity and equity.
Basic proficiency in computer skills including, but not limited to, Electronic Health Systems, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, email systems, etc.
Must be a motivated individual with a positive mindset and exceptional work ethic.