Medical Lab Scientist, Microbiology

Location: Nashville, TN Schedule: Monday-Friday Day Shift Compensation: $30-$38/hr

Lighthouse Lab Services is partnering with a growing clinical laboratory in Nashville, Tennessee, seeking an experienced Microbiology Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) to join its laboratory team.

This position will focus on traditional clinical microbiology testing, including culture, organism identification, susceptibility testing, and related quality and laboratory processes. The ideal candidate brings a strong microbiology foundation, is comfortable working independently in a high-complexity laboratory environment, and can serve as an experienced technical resource within the department.

The Role You'll Play

• Perform high-complexity microbiology testing, including specimen processing, culture setup and evaluation, organism identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
• Perform testing across applicable microbiology disciplines, including bacteriology, mycology, parasitology, and mycobacteriology as required by laboratory volume and test menu.
• Review and interpret testing results, evaluating validity and consistency with laboratory procedures and expected clinical findings.
• Perform, evaluate, and document quality control, quality assurance, and required daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance activities.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and calibrate microbiology instrumentation and equipment according to laboratory procedures and manufacturer requirements.
• Identify testing, QC, or instrumentation issues and participate in corrective actions and troubleshooting through resolution.
• Maintain accurate and complete documentation in accordance with laboratory SOPs, CLIA, CAP, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Monitor inventory levels and support ordering, preparation, testing, and validation of reagents, media, controls, and laboratory supplies.
• Assist with new reagent, media, method, or instrumentation verification and validation as needed.
• Maintain proper specimen storage, retention, and disposal according to laboratory procedures.
• Support department workflow and turnaround-time goals while maintaining a high level of quality and accuracy.
• Serve as a knowledgeable resource to other laboratory staff and contribute to training or competency activities as needed.
• Participate in ongoing quality improvement initiatives and support inspection readiness within the microbiology department.
• Perform other laboratory duties as assigned based on operational needs.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or another qualifying laboratory science.
• TN Medical Lab Scientist License required.
• MLS/MT (ASCP) certification.
• Minimum 5 years of clinical laboratory experience, with significant hands-on experience in microbiology.
• Strong experience with traditional microbiology methods, including culture interpretation, organism identification, and susceptibility testing.
• Experience working in a high-complexity clinical laboratory environment required.
• Strong understanding of microbiology quality control, laboratory safety, documentation, and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to troubleshoot testing and instrumentation issues independently and escalate appropriately when needed.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a laboratory team.
• Familiarity with laboratory information systems and standard laboratory technology.

Salary, Schedule & Benefits

• $30-$38/hr, depending on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off & paid holidays
• Retirement benefits

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 22 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Lighthouse Lab Services is committed to working and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including persons with disabilities. If at any time during the application process, you need an accommodation, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io for assistance.