MLT

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) / Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)

Location: Linville, North Carolina | Full-Time | Monday–Thursday, 1:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Why You'll Love Working Here

As a Medical Laboratory Technician or Medical Laboratory Scientist at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll perform the chemical, hematologic, microscopic, and serological testing that guides physicians in diagnosing and treating patients. We're hiring for this role at both the MLT and MLS certification levels — apply with the credential and experience you hold. You'll be part of a mission-driven health system committed to patient safety, quality outcomes, teamwork, and professional growth.

Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers the perfect blend of community, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Compensation (MLT): Starting at $23.42 per hour, based on education and experience.

Compensation (MLS): Starting at $28.96 per hour, based on education and experience.

Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision, retirement with match, PTO, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts.

What You'll Do as a Medical Laboratory Technician/Scientist

• Perform a variety of laboratory tests and procedures — chemical, hematologic, microscopic, and serological — to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating patients.
• Analyze bodily fluids, tissues, and other specimens with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Accept and process laboratory test orders from physicians and nursing units according to hospital policy.
• Collect patient specimens (blood, urine, sputum) from nursing units or directly from patients using established protocol; MLS-level staff also perform phlebotomy as part of specimen collection.
• Process and handle specimens safely and effectively, within legal limits, certifications, and lab policies and procedures.
• Understand and comply with laboratory Quality Control and Quality Assurance policies and procedures.
• Prepare reports and maintain accurate, timely records.
• Use laboratory computer programs to log, track, and report results.
• Communicate courteously and effectively with patients, families, staff, and physicians, working within the chain of command.
• Respond quickly and accurately to emergencies and changes in patient condition.

Qualifications

• Education:
  • MLT: Associate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or a related field.
  • MLS: Graduation from an accredited school of medical technology, or a combination of chemistry, biology, and microbiology coursework sufficient to achieve certification by an accredited agency.
• Experience:
  • MLT: Previous experience in a clinical laboratory setting preferred.
  • MLS: Training experience through an accredited Medical Technology or university program; previous Med Tech experience preferred.
• Licensure/Certifications:
  • MLT: MLT certification through a recognized agency (e.g., ASCP) recommended, but not required.
  • MLS: MLS certification through an accredited testing agency preferred.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong communication skills; ability to work within the chain of command using positive verbal and non-verbal techniques.
  • Competence in processing specimens safely and effectively within the limits of certification and hospital policy.
  • General knowledge of all laboratory sections sufficient to perform duties under general supervision.
  • Exceptional customer service for patients, families, staff, and physicians.
  • Proficiency with laboratory computer programs; ability to type at least 25 WPM.

Physical & Work Environment

• Ability to access all areas of the hospital, including patient bedsides, for specimen collection, and to reach all lab storage areas.
• Continuous standing and walking, often 8+ hours per shift; frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, twisting, turning, and reaching.
• Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull 50+ lbs; manual dexterity sufficient to operate lab equipment including microscopes, centrifuges, and analyzers.
• Near visual acuity to read procedure manuals and interpret test results by color and intensity; auditory acuity sufficient to hear phones, timers, and alarms.
• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, reagents, and laboratory specimens.
• Exposure to hazards from electrical/mechanical equipment and to ionizing/nonionizing radiation (including x-ray and microwave).
• Subject to irregular hours (days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays) and emergencies.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Structured advancement pathways, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing training — with growth potential from MLT to MLS as you build experience and credentials.
• Impactful Work: As a Medical Laboratory Technician or Scientist at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll deliver accurate, high-quality laboratory results that guide care across three community hospitals, 13 medical practices, and specialty centers like the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center and The Rehabilitation Center.
• Community & Lifestyle: Boone is ranked among the best small towns in America by Forbes and Southern Living.
• Inclusive Culture: We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion — and provide accommodations as needed.

Ready to build your laboratory career in a place where precision meets purpose? Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on patients, families, and the community we proudly serve.