Clinical Lab Scientist, TRANSFUSION SERVICES

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) provides transfusion medicine support for patients across a large academic medical center. Under the direction of supervisory staff, the CLS performs routine and complex serologic testing, blood component selection, compatibility testing, transfusion reaction investigations, quality control activities, and laboratory troubleshooting to support safe and timely patient care. This position works in a fast-paced Transfusion Service environment supporting trauma, transplant, surgical, oncology, inpatient, and outpatient services. The CLS utilizes manual and automated testing methodologies, laboratory information systems, and blood bank instrumentation to accurately perform, interpret, document, and report laboratory results. Responsibilities Task A – 65% of time Perform all tests using manual methods and automated instruments per the section's procedures, accurately and within the established completion times. Review, validate, and enter test results and interpretations in the LIS accurately. Investigate transfusion reactions per procedure, perform clerical checks, repeat testing, quarantine co-components, and notify resident. Recognize and follow through on unexpected or abnormal results by initiating problem-solving and notifying supervisor or resident. Serve as Lead/traffic tech when assigned, managing Emergency Release and Massive Transfusion Protocol products. Enter inventory data, verify UNOS website information, and allocate, modify, and issue organs and vessels. Document, analyze instrument and manual QC testing results, initiate troubleshooting when results are out of range, and notify supervisor of issues. Consult reagent manufacturers' instructions and section procedures for less common tests. Complete quality control tasks, record results on log sheets, and investigate unexpected QC results, quarantining suspect reagent lots if needed. Maintain documentation in ink or LIS, update or correct results per procedure, and report errors to supervisor. Strive to keep clerical and computer errors below three per year, and avoid issuing incorrect units of blood. Complete training and competency within assigned time frames and stay current on procedural changes. Operate independently, use sound judgment, and maintain a respectful, professional attitude. Replenish supplies, clean and organize work areas, and log reagents and supplies per procedure. Assist coworkers and serve as a resource during emergencies or urgent situations. Assist with training of new staff or students as assigned. Adhere to infection control and personal protection guidelines, including wearing laboratory gear and observing safety rules. Organize and manage tasks assigned to each rotation to complete assignments by shift end. Inform the next shift of ongoing problems and pending blood orders. Follow all policies and procedures established by UCSF and Clinical Labs. Task B – 20% of time Communicate effectively with hospital personnel regarding blood availability, departmental policies, and designated donor information. Answer phone calls and in-person questions, convey information accurately and concisely. Record telephone reports on requisitions with time and person given. Enter results in the LIS with sufficient detail for department use. Maintain computer error rates below three per year for inventory entry and test requests. Task C – 10% of time Operate blood bank equipment and analytical instruments safely and correctly. Recognize malfunctions, notify supervisor or specialist. Use Out of Service tags for equipment not maintaining performance or temperature. Initiate troubleshooting, record malfunctions and corrective actions, and arrange vendor service calls. Perform equipment maintenance as instructed, documenting tasks on logs. Do not modify equipment settings without supervisor approval. Task D – 5% of time Perform additional tests, projects or special studies requested by supervisor, completing them within agreed timeframes and recording results legibly. Initiate problem reports, variance or incident reports to document injuries, complaints, or errors. Required Qualifications Bachelor of Science degree A valid California Department of Health Clinical Laboratory Scientist license or a limited license in Immunohematology Maintain active license and follow Clinical Lab CLS licensure policy Recent experience performing clinical lab testing in Transfusion Service Recent experience performing clinical laboratory testing in a healthcare setting Ability to work independently, prioritize workload, and function effectively in a fast-paced environment Strong attention to detail and commitment to patient safety Preferred Qualifications Prefer two years’ Blood Bank or Transfusion Service experience in a high-volume lab within the past five years, especially: Selection and crossmatch of blood for a sensitized or problem recipient Antibody identification and titers Serologic follow-up of transfusion reactions Blood Bank quality control procedures Problems associated with transfusion of the neonate Use of hospital and laboratory information systems Experience performing testing on an automated platform Required Licenses / Certifications California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license Equal Employment Opportunity The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr