Clinical Lab Scientist I

About the Role

Performs standard tests to obtain data used in diagnosis and treatment of patients. This classification is reserved for recent graduates of approved schools of clinical laboratory science, individuals re-entering the field, and individuals who may not meet all the required qualifications of a CLS II. May work in any of the following departments: Blood Bank, Microbiology, Automated, Non-Automated, or Critical Care. Performs standard tests and may provide some work direction for non-licensed personnel. Requires work review and works with supervision.

Responsibilities

• Maintains technical competency, flexibility, and accuracy in assigned areas.
• Properly utilizes the Laboratory Information System (LIS) for inquiry, specimen requirements, and patient results.
• Demonstrates appropriate use of medical supplies, reagents, test kits, controls, and calibration material.
• Accurately and consistently evaluates, resolves, and documents quality control (QC) data.
• Demonstrates general problem-solving including follow-through on identified problems and documentation of corrective action.
• Participates with instrument maintenance and troubleshooting. (70%)
• Demonstrates an understanding of the concepts of quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA).
• Monitors the appropriateness and acceptability of test results.
• Participates with CAP proficiency surveys.
• Follows guidelines necessary for regulatory compliance and participates in preparation for inspection by various accrediting agencies.
• Completes required competency evaluations.
• Attends and completes all mandatory continuing education in-services. (10%)
• Participates in Shared Governance.
• Participates in the training of students and/or employees by either giving lectures or providing training in-services.
• Participates in the evaluation of new tests, methods, or instrumentation.
• Participates in writing and/or updating procedure manuals and technical checklists.
• Participates in system-wide efforts to improve service and quality. (10%)
• Completes required continuing education for licensure.
• Maintains own technical checklist.
• Takes initiative for planning and completing professional development as it applies to laboratory goals, system goals, and personal/professional goals.
• Participates in cross-training for tests and/or analyzers to improve technical flexibility.
• Facilitates meeting laboratory goals and system goals by sharing information obtained through professional development activities. (5%)
• Effectively communicates with team members in order to complete assigned tasks.
• Organizes and prioritizes duties as needed.
• Able to work as a team player in regard to workstation, shift, and schedule needs to best serve laboratory and health system goals.
• Organizes time to prioritize, perform, and complete assigned tasks in order to meet lab-wide needs and deadlines.
• Demonstrates initiative by taking a lead role when appropriate. (5%)

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree (minimum level of education).
• Functional experience with common laboratory analyzers and laboratory computer systems, including PCs.

Qualifications

• Preferred: California license as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. Licensure and experience have been validated and deemed qualified under the guidelines of the State of California and CLIA to perform clinical laboratory tests and examinations classified as waived, moderate, or high complexity as described under CLIA.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative while working cooperatively to find solutions to problems.
• Assumes responsibility for role in creating a collaborative work environment.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Holds self and others accountable to the Code of Conduct.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, pursuant to the CHS English Proficiency and Usage policy.
• Supports the mission, vision, and values of CHS by attending a Code of Conduct class within six months of hire.

About Us

Cottage Health is a leading acute care hospital system located on the central coast of California, widely known for superior patient care, innovation, medical research, and education. Our health system operates primarily in Santa Barbara, CA, since 1888, and consists of three acute care hospitals, a Rehabilitation Hospital, multiple clinics, and a multi-site Urgent Care system. Our mission is to serve the central coast communities with excellence, integrity, and compassion. Every day we touch thousands of lives in many different ways, resolute in our mission to put patients first. We take pride in helping our patients get back to living their lives—in the places they love.

Pay

Pay for non-physician positions is determined based on related years of experience and internal equity. Eligible employees may also receive additional forms of compensation, including shift differentials, on-call pay, incentive pay, and bonus opportunities, where applicable. Manager and above positions may participate in Cottage Health’s annual management incentive program. Physician compensation is determined based upon specialty and may include bonus potential.