Medical Lab Technologist

Medical Lab TechnicianThe Medical Lab Technician performs a full range of laboratory testing to support the detection, diagnosis, and prognosis of disease. This role works closely with the laboratory team to provide accurate and timely testing services, following established procedures and quality standards. The technician operates and maintains a variety of laboratory instruments, supports training of new staff, and contributes to continuous improvement of laboratory methods and processes. Additional duties may be assigned by laboratory leadership as needed.ResponsibilitiesFollow written laboratory procedures for the correct handling, processing, and storage of specimens in accordance with departmental standards.Perform laboratory procedures of moderate and high complexity in alignment with established sectional laboratory protocols.Maintain up-to-date working knowledge of all technical procedures in the department and the operation of all laboratory instruments.Review and follow all pertinent standard operating procedure manuals (SOPMs) to ensure compliance with current practices.Operate both simple and complex laboratory equipment, including computer systems, to perform diagnostic testing.Perform routine maintenance, limited teardown, and replacement of parts on laboratory equipment as needed.Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, identify root causes, and implement appropriate corrective actions.Assist in the orientation and training of new employees, providing guidance on laboratory procedures and workflows.Participate in the training of technical staff and monitor their progress in collaboration with the supervisor.Serve as a resource for peers and other personnel, offering technical support and clarification on procedures and instrumentation.Perform quality control procedures established for each testing method and maintain accurate and complete quality control records.Review and analyze quality control data to identify trends, shifts, or problems, and take appropriate corrective actions before releasing test results.Operate laboratory instruments and perform routine maintenance and procedural calibrations according to manufacturer and laboratory guidelines.Diagnose, troubleshoot, and document all laboratory instrument and reagent issues, ensuring timely resolution.Perform preventive and corrective maintenance and repairs on laboratory instruments, and maintain detailed records of all actions taken.Contact technical service representatives when necessary to resolve instrument or reagent problems beyond in-house capabilities.Review the accuracy and completeness of test results prior to releasing them in the Laboratory Information System, where applicable.Recognize unexpected or unreasonable test results and testing delays, and take appropriate follow-up actions.Follow established protocols for acceptance or rejection of patient results, ensuring reliability and validity of reported data.Locate and transport specimens according to company standards and protocols to maintain specimen integrity.Complete routine and STAT testing within acceptable turnaround time guidelines and prioritize workload to meet service expectations.Review pending logs regularly, research and resolve missing specimen issues, and document actions taken.Escalate unresolved pending or missing specimen issues to the next shift for continued follow-up and, if still unresolved, ensure the supervisor is informed for further action.Participate in the evaluation and development of new procedures, methods, and instruments to enhance laboratory capabilities and efficiency.Adhere to all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements applicable to the laboratory environment.Essential SkillsAssociate of Science degree in medical technology, chemistry, biology, or a related life science that meets CLIA personnel standard criteria.State licensure as required by applicable regulations.Strong understanding of laboratory procedures of moderate and high complexity.Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a variety of laboratory instruments and related computer systems.Proficiency in following written laboratory procedures and standard operating procedures.Ability to perform and interpret quality control procedures and take appropriate corrective actions.College-level computer, reasoning, and language skills, typically equivalent to at least two years of post-secondary education.Capability to recognize unexpected or unreasonable test results and testing delays and respond appropriately.Strong attention to detail and accuracy in specimen handling, testing, and result reporting.Ability to meet turnaround time expectations for routine and STAT testing.Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds, as well as push and pull objects as required by the role.Additional Skills & QualificationsASCP or other national certification is preferred.At least one year of relevant work experience in a clinical laboratory setting is preferred.Experience training or mentoring new laboratory staff is beneficial.Experience working with laboratory information systems is an advantage.Demonstrated ability to analyze quality control trends and implement corrective actions.Strong problem-solving skills for addressing instrument and reagent issues.Ability to participate in the evaluation and implementation of new laboratory procedures, methods, and instruments.Interest in gaining exposure to different and smaller practice settings within a larger laboratory organization.Work EnvironmentThis position operates in a clinical laboratory environment that uses a variety of simple and complex diagnostic instruments and computer systems. The role involves hands-on work with specimens, laboratory equipment, and reagents, as well as routine and STAT testing. The schedule for this position is Wednesday through Sunday from 2:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The work includes medium physical demands, such as lifting up to 50 pounds, carrying up to 25 pounds, and pushing or pulling objects as needed. The environment emphasizes adherence to safety standards, regulatory requirements, and consistent use of established protocols to ensure accurate and reliable test results.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Elmwood Park, NJ.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $26.00 - $32.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)