Laboratory Scientist

Entry Level Laboratory Scientist

To perform specific analysis/assays in the clinical laboratory under the direction of the supervisor. To produce accurate test results for all patients and perform the following essential responsibilities.

Essential Duties

1. Performs high complexity tests that are authorized by the laboratory leadership. Adheres to and understands the laboratory's quality control policies documenting all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed.
2. Follows set guidelines to troubleshoot/correct assay problems or instrument malfunctions. Performs maintenance and works with supervisor in troubleshooting QC or instrument problems.
3. Follows the laboratory's and NJH established policies and procedure manuals. Reviews and signs laboratory and personnel SOP on an annual basis. Is responsible for completing NetLearning in a timely manner. Follows specific biosafety standards for the laboratory and protocols for handling potentially infectious material.
4. Performs error correction, data entry and compilation of data packets as required. Documents all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
5. Participates and maintains records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens.
6. Follows GxP (e.g., GLP, GCLP, GCP, etc.) standards as defined by different national and international organizations (e.g., ISO, FDA, OECD, etc.) when appropriate.
7. Performs competencies (including age-specific competencies and/or non-human species) as identified through the departmental competency program.
8. Appropriately uses the computer systems in the department, including proper use of order/reports/charging, and maximizes personal proficiency. Responds appropriately to email and other forms of communication in a timely manner.
9. Monitors and reports on stocks of supplies and equipment, as directed. Makes reagents as necessary.
10. Participates in preparation for inspections where required.
11. Attends continuing education programs sponsored by National Jewish Health, manufacturer in-services and/or professional society programs. Makes efforts to obtain at least 12 CEU credits per year including but not limited to the following: webinars, lunch and learn seminars, seminars, etc.

Competencies

1. Accountability: Accepts full responsibility for self and contribution as a team member; displays honesty and truthfulness; confronts problems quickly; displays a strong commitment to organizational success and inspires others to commit to goals; demonstrates a commitment to National Jewish Health.
2. Laboratory Knowledge: Clearly discusses scientific principle behind laboratory testing; understands functional mission, own job requirements and impact on the organization.
3. Customer Focus: Will look at processes and results with the laboratory in mind; understand organizational roles and associated functions; maintains personal integrity, admits mistakes, and keeps promises; follows up on promises to ensure accuracy and timeliness of fulfillment; takes personal responsibility for correcting customer or physician problems; recognizes the importance of maintaining customer and physician relationships; all work is conducted in the spirit of "what's in it for the customer or patient."
4. Decision Quality: Exhibits one-dimensional decisions that are advantageous to either the laboratory or the patient; comfortable making decisions with lots of consensus; knows when they can make decisions independently.
5. Drive for Results: Can identify own mistakes and proactively fixes when identified; productivity is at expectations; adapts to personnel changes and shifts in laboratory environment; will regularly take on new initiatives as directed.
6. Informing Communicating: Addresses issues as they arise or within an appropriate time interval; effectively uses all forms of communication; informs coworkers/leadership of when work product may be affected.
7. Managing Change: Maintains open mind and willingness to try new ideas or approaches; analyzes both success and failure to determine how to improve; has a desire to learn.
8. Professional Relationships: Quickly establishes and maintains rapport and credibility with laboratory team; respects differing opinions and viewpoints; is consistently polite and courteous to others; performs work in team setting and contributes to the success of the team in a meaningful way; maintains personal integrity, admits mistakes, and keeps promises; maintains a positive attitude.
9. Problem Solving: Collects and organizes data before initiating analysis and asks questions to prioritize key issues; identifies inconsistent details within SOPs or processes; able to work through immediate problem with assistance.

Supervisory or Managerial Responsibility None

Travel None

Core Values

1. Be available to work as scheduled and report to work on time.
2. Be willing to accept supervision and work well with others.
3. Be well groomed, appropriately for your role and wear ID Badge visibly.
4. Be in compliance with all departmental and institutional policies, the Employee Handbook, Code of Conduct and completes NetLearning by due date annually.
5. Promotes a workplace culture based on mutual respect and merit, where all individuals are treated fairly and provided with equal opportunity to contribute to the mission and goals of the institution.
6. Adheres to safe working practices and at all times follows all institutional and departmental safety policies and procedures.
7. Wears appropriate PPE as outlined by the infection control policies and procedures.
8. Demonstrates compliance with all state, federal and all other regulatory agency requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Education: Bachelors of Science degree in biology, chemistry or a related scientific field required.
2. Work Experience: Previous laboratory experience preferred.
3. Special Training, Certification or Licensure: None

Salary Range: $22.50 - $24.00

Benefits At National Jewish Health, we recognize that our outstanding faculty and staff are the essence of our organization. For every aspect of health care, our employees are our greatest asset. With that in mind, we have designed a valuable, comprehensive benefits package to meet the needs of our employees and their families.

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage: Multiple Cigna health plans for Colorado, regional office and remote employees. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) available to pair with some plans.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO accruals to use for vacation and sick days, and six paid holidays, all compliant with Colorado state sick leave regulations.
• Dental & Vision Plans: Coverage effective the first of the month after hire.
• Retirement Savings: 403(b) plan with employer contributions after two years.
• Wellness Incentives: Earn up to $200 annually for preventive health activities.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $5,250 annually for full-time and part-time employees.
• Child Care Assistance: Childcare Flex Spending Account (FSA) with annual employer contribution.
• Loan Forgiveness: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer.
• Disability & Life Insurance: Employer-paid plans and optional buy-up choices.
• Voluntary Benefits: Full suite of coverage options such as Accident, Hospital Indemnity and Legal Plan
• Exclusive Discounts: Savings on local services, insurance, and RTD bus passes.