PurposeThe purpose of this document is to describe the duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of a Technical Specialist and Vendor Relations Coordinator.OverviewAs part of the Technical Support team at API, a Technical Specialist and Vendor Relations Coordinator provides technical excellence by supporting daily activities related to technical support, vendor relations, and statistical analysis. This position is half-time support to Technical Support and half-time to Vendor Relations.Main Duties and Responsibilities – Technical Support1. Provide technical support to laboratories, consultants, and government agencies.2. Assist Customer Service and other departments with technical inquiries.3. Review statistical sample data and modify settings as needed to assure appropriate participant evaluation according to CLIA and other requirements.4. Prepare Participant Data Summary notes, including opinions and interpretations of PT data and commentary on participant performance.5. Propose new / updated evaluation criteria for non-CLIA analytes as needed.6. Interface with manufacturers and other API staff to provide effective technical support.7. Maintain an awareness of new technical developments in laboratories.8. Participate in continuing education.9. Prepare special projects as directed.Main Duties and Responsibilities – Vendor Relations1. Assist with sample procurement and monitoring of sample quantities for current and future shipments to ensure adequate availability. Assist with creation of purchase orders, which includes updating PO schedule and checking sample specifications. Assist in anticipated sample delivery or fulfillment issues and communication to other departments regarding any changes.2. Work closely with Vendor Relations Manager, sample manufacturers and Technical Support as needed. For example, communications regarding sample compatibility, sample quality concerns, and grading decisions.3. Assist Technical Director and Vendor Relations Manager in developing new proficiency products in response to industry needs. Work with Technical Support department and subcontractors to design samples with appropriate matrix and analyte concentrations. Contact for IVD manufacturers – work to bring on new PT based on market needs through knowledge obtained. Organize/Issue pilot studies – work with sample vendors/manufacturers to conduct pilot studies to determine feasibility of future PT programs. 4. Prepare special projects as directed.Other Duties and Responsibilities1. Additional technical duties / support as assigned, for example:a. Sample specificationsb. Certificate of Analysis reviewc. Virtual Image selectiond. ImageViewere. DataDirectf. Result forms and testing instructionsg. Stratah. Remedialsi. ASCP commentary review
