Clinical Laboratory Scientist

About the Role

The laboratory scientist is responsible for performing patient testing across pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases. The role ensures compliance with CLIA’88 standards and supports providers with pre-test requirements while maintaining confidentiality and accuracy in test results.

Responsibilities

• Pre-Analytic:
  • Read procedures and complete required training before performing any protocols.
  • Ensure confidentiality of patient information throughout all testing phases.
  • Match specimens to order requisitions.
• Analytics:
  • Maintain and update the procedure manual, including changes in testing procedures, instruments, and methodology.
  • Maintain an adequate supply of reagents and consumables, dating them upon receipt and monitoring for expiration.
  • Discard expired reagents and supplies to prevent use in patient testing.
  • Perform and document routine maintenance, function checks, calibration, and calibration verification on instruments.
  • Notify supervisors of failures and document corrective actions.
  • Perform Quality Control as required, troubleshoot failures, and document corrective actions.
  • Hold patient testing until Quality Control issues are resolved.
  • Identify and address problems that may affect test results, applying corrective actions as needed.
  • Perform Proficiency Testing and/or Split Sample analysis as outlined in laboratory protocols.
  • Retain records of all analytic activities, including inventory control, maintenance, calibration, and quality control.
• Post-Analytic:
  • Report patient test results via electronic transmission or manual entry into LIS, verifying accuracy before release.
  • Verify critical values by repeat analysis and report them to physicians or nurses.
  • Correct reporting errors following established protocols and retain records of corrections.
  • Perform Quality Assessment activities and document them for review.
  • Retain records of training, competency evaluations, patient reports, errors, and corrective actions.
• Organize and maintain reagents, equipment, and laboratory cleanliness.
• Use Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) to input testing data, generate reports, and search for results.
• Follow established safety and quality protocols to ensure patient care standards.
• Occasionally supervise laboratory technicians and assistants as delegated.

Requirements

• Current California state license as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Medical Technologist), either as a generalist or for laboratory sub-specialties (e.g., molecular).
• Bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a related field.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a high-complexity laboratory.
• At least six (6) months of direct hands-on bench work in the specialty area of recruitment.
• Advanced knowledge in the specialty area of recruitment.
• ASCP certification recommended but not mandatory.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot equipment and test result inaccuracies.
• Fluent written and spoken English.
• Ability to read and understand Standard Operating Procedures and protocols.
• Attention to detail and ability to set up and maintain quality control programs.
• Ability to use, maintain, and prepare technical reports related to laboratory equipment.
• Ability to lift objects up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to multitask and follow biohazard guidelines.
• Must maintain an active and current California state license; employment cannot continue if the license expires.
• High degree of independence and leadership, with the ability to work efficiently within state and federal compliance laws.