Chemistry Lead $15,000 Sign on Bonus

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Clinical Chemistry Lead is a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS), with additional functions related to the supervision of the Chemistry section of the NIH clinical laboratory. The Clinical Chemistry Lead is responsible for monitoring equipment functionality, maintenance, quality control and records, troubleshooting, setting technical workflows, training, and competency assessment. The Clinical Chemistry Lead helps ensure compliance with The Joint Commission and state and federal laws as it pertains to their area. The CLS is a professional state licensed position within the hospital clinical laboratory. A CLS is expected to maintain the highest degree of confidentiality in all areas involving patients and their related hospital business. 

Job Relationships :

1. Directly responsible to the Laboratory Services Manager.
2. This position works closely with all laboratory staff and may provide instruction to them.
3. Works closely with District departments and leadership as well as internal and external customers.

Occupational Hazards:

Works in the general hospital setting. May be exposed to blood, body fluids, or tissues as well as patients in varying stages of infectious states. 

Samples of Duties:

The information listed below is meant to serve as samples of job duties and responsibilities for positions in this classification. This list is neither inclusive nor exclusive, but indicative of several types of duties performed. 

1. All regular job duties of a Clinical Laboratory Scientist including:
   1. CLIA waived, moderate, and high-complexity testing in all sections of the laboratory
   2. Assessing quality and integrity of clinical specimens for testing; processes specimens and reports results according to SOP
   3. Participates in Proficiency Testing and maintains assigned competency assessments
2. Reviews, troubleshoots, and maintains documentation of Clinical Chemistry Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA). Troubleshoots, resolves and documents QC/QA issues. 
3. Oversees the maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting and repair of assigned Chemistry instrumentation. Ensures manufacturer-performed periodic/preventative maintenance is completed per warranty or service contract. Works with Laboratory Manager to ensure that service contracts are current and meet the needs of the District.
4. Notifies and collaborates with Laboratory Services Manager on problems in their section that could impact patient care.
5. Oversees training and competency assessment for new and current staff in accordance with regulatory requirements. 
6. In collaboration with Laboratory Services Manager, develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to Clinical Chemistry.
7. Acts as point person for Chemistry during surveys/inspections with support from Laboratory Services Manager. 
8. Oversees maintenance of supplies and inventory used by the Chemistry section. Ensures reagents and quality control materials are within expiry and are stored appropriately.
9. Collaborates with Laboratory Services Manager, providers, and other NIHD leadership to provide an optimal test menu for NIHD and community. The Clinical Chemistry Lead is be an integral person when procuring new instrumentation, tests, and providing education during implementation. 
10. Assigns Proficiency Testing (PT) specimens within the scope of Clinical Chemistry to appropriate personnel and ensures results are reported to PT agency on time. When PT results are unacceptable, performs investigation and corrective action to be reviewed by Laboratory Services Manager and the Laboratory Medical Director (Pathologist). 
11. Adheres to Laboratory Standard Operating Procedures and completes variance reports (QVR and/or UOR) when deviations occur. 
12. Maintains current State of California Clinical Laboratory Scientist licensure 
13. Other duties as assigned. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• High complexity testing methods and requirements 
• Quality Control and Quality Assurance
• The Mission, Vision, and Values of Northern Inyo Healthcare District; 
• NIHD policies and procedures, including Compliance Program, Code of Conduct, and Confidentiality standards;
• NIHD safety policies and procedures, including the Rainbow Chart, Employee Health, and Infection Prevention standards;

Skills/Abilities to:

• Must demonstrate a strong attention to details and work with minimal supervision
• Good organizational skills
• Working under pressure - ability to complete assigned tasks under stressful situations
• Use discretion to refer problems to Laboratory Management 
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with NIHD staff and the public;
• Establish and maintain professional working relationships with NIHD staff at all levels as well as the public;
• Develop and maintain a high degree of maturity, integrity, and good judgement.

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of experience in high-complexity testing in the specialty of Chemistry
• Minimum 1 year of experience in high-complexity testing in the specialties of Hematology, Coagulation, Serology, Transfusion Services/Blood Bank, and Microbiology (this position has generalist responsibilities)

Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, physical, or biological science or medical technology (must meet CLIA requirements for high complexity testing)

Certification: 

• Valid California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) Generalist License