Medical Laboratory Scientist - Full Time

OVERVIEW

This job involves performing laboratory tests on patient samples, verifying results for accuracy, and using specialized equipment to help healthcare providers diagnose and treat patients. The role also includes maintaining laboratory instruments, following quality and safety standards, training new staff, solving technical issues, and supporting the daily operations of the laboratory. SCHEDULE: 7 days on, 7 days off SHIFT: Nights

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Utilize the Information System to receive patients, order and collect samples, result tests, answer questions from nurses and physicians, document quality control activities and produce reports required to perform job tasks. Confirms accuracy of patient sample identification prior to performing analyses; evaluates specimen quality and identifies when unacceptable. Documents information concerning quality of specimen, impact of sub-optimal specimens on test values. Initiates recollection procedure as indicated.

Perform waived, moderate and high complexity lab tests as defined by CLIA in the lab specialties of hematology, urinalysis, chemistry and blood bank or microbiology by automated and manual methods according to defined policies and procedures. Analyze test results prior to release of information to chart for validity and accuracy. Recognizes subtle yet significant problems which occur with testing methodologies. Troubleshoots suspect test results using technical knowledge and experience. Implements corrective action when inaccurate, inappropriate findings/results/reports are identified. Performs high complexity tests such as bone marrow, sperm morphology, etc. Assure that designated turnaround times for results are met and that critical results are appropriately reported and documented.

Perform quality control and proficiency testing procedures as defined by policy. Interpret and troubleshoot quality control results to ensure accurate and precise test results. Perform preventative maintenance, advanced troubleshooting and calibration of laboratory instrumentation. Participate in method and instrument evaluation and implementation. Investigates/resolves technical issues. Participates on interdepartmental committees or teams. Participates in teaching students and training new partners. Completes and signs off on competency checklists for techs. Develops updates and procedures as requested. Serves as a resource to inexperienced partners. Performs additional tasks such as scheduling, antibiograms, etc. Maintain competency in current procedures and gain competency for new methods implemented.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology Must be qualified to perform high complexity testing according to CLIA 493.1489 Standard; Testing personnel qualifications.

OR Associates degree in Medical Technology AND MLT certification Must be qualified to perform high complexity testing according to CLIA 493.1489 Standard; Testing personnel qualifications.

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE

MT/MLS Generalist Certification or Specialty Certification in Blood Bank, Chemistry, Hematology or Microbiology required within 12 months of hire. OR MLT Certification and 5 years of experience.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

N/A

SPECIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The Special Physical Demands are considered Essential Job Function of the position with or without accommodations. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is frequently required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is required to talk, hear and smell. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit and reach with hands and arms. The employee may have occasion to reach overhead to pick up objects or to adjust items. The employee may have occasion to bend under or crawl under bench to move or obtain objects. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

LEVEL OF SUPERVISION

Some independent judgment is required, but alternatives are limited by standard practices or procedures.

SUPERVISES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

PAY RANGE

$29.41 - $44.11

Mercyhealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Mercyhealth offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package including: Medical, Dental, Vision Life & Disability Insurance FSA/HSA Options Generous, accruing paid time off Paid Parental and caregiver leave Career advancement and educational opportunities Tuition and certification reimbursement Certification Reimbursement Well-being Programs Employee Discounts On-Demand Pay Financial Education Annual recognition/awards events Partner appreciation days Family entertainment/attractions discount Community service/improvement opportunities.

At Mercyhealth, we don’t simply hire people, we empower employee-partners who are passionate about making lives better. As an integrated health system, we deliver exceptional, coordinated across seven hospitals, 85 primary and specialty clinics, and a team of over 7,500 professionals serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Mercyhealth has been nationally recognized for our commitment to our people and culture, including: #1 in the nation on AARP's Best Employers for Workers Over 50 One of Working Mother magazine's 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers A Top 50 Company and Top 10 Nonprofit for Executive Women For over 135 years, Mercyhealth has provided high-quality health care to residents throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. We have a passion for providing comprehensive health care close to home for area residents through our six hospitals and 85 primary and specialty care locations. As an integrated health system, you can come to us for routine health care, like annual physicals, immunizations and preventive health screenings, as well as highly specialized care, such as neonatal intensive care, heart surgery, stroke care, neurosurgery, cancer treatment and much more. The range of Mercyhealth's specialties and the skills of our doctors, nurses and clinical staff are truly extraordinary.