Medical Laboratory Scientist III

Performs routine and specialized assays and provides technical advice and information in one or more clinical laboratory scientific specialties to support the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Analyzes body fluids, cells, and related products to identify abnormal and critical findings associated with disease processes. Serves as a subject matter expert and technical consultant in the assigned specialty area(s).

• Evaluates specimen adequacy for test performance and obtains specimens for quantitative and qualitative analyses.

• Performs routine and specialized testing in assigned areas. Correlates laboratory findings with disease stages and integrates data from other laboratory specialty areas. Confirms abnormal results and specimen discrepancies and initiates appropriate follow-up procedures.

• Reviews and verifies test results, recognizes and follows up on abnormal or unusual findings, and communicates results to appropriate personnel. Accurately completes all required documentation. Exercises judgment and discretion when evaluating sample integrity, instrument calibration, reagent concentration and stability, quality control results, unexpected patient results, and potential sources of error before releasing test results.

• Performs and documents daily quality control and quality assurance measures to ensure established tolerance limits are not exceeded. Notifies the supervisor of quality assurance or quality control concerns. Evaluates CAP and other proficiency testing materials as required.

• Analyzes technical problems related to specimen collection and instrumentation. Identifies causes and resolves issues in accordance with established guidelines and procedures.

• Maintains adequate reagents and supplies in work areas and on instruments to prevent delays in specimen processing. Keeps work areas clean and organized in accordance with established Lean standards. Decontaminates countertops, instruments, computers, telephones, and general work areas according to laboratory protocols.

• Ensures turnaround time standards are met within the laboratory section and communicates any variances to the supervisor in a timely manner.

• Participates in the education and training of students and new employees.

• Maintains individual competency in accordance with established schedules.

• Assists with departmental competency requirements, including performing training assessments and direct observations, as delegated by the Medical Director.

• Provides technical advice and support to other laboratory personnel as needed.

• Communicates pertinent information to the incoming shift to ensure continuity and efficiency of laboratory operations.

• Demonstrates proficiency in basic and complex troubleshooting.

• Serves as a resource to leadership by actively contributing to departmental activities, including serving as a section safety representative; monitoring instrument- or assay-specific performance; supporting inventory management; and reviewing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Actively participates in cross-training activities based on departmental needs.

• Bachelor's degree in chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or a related field, required.

• 3-4 years of clinical laboratory training and/or experience required.

• Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) required; or

• Certification may be waived for applicants with a minimum of seven years of experience in a designated specialty.