Clinical Laboratory Scientist I

SUMMARY

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist I is responsible for performing laboratory testing, recording and reviewing test results, preparing and labeling blood components. Essential Responsibilities:

• Perform all tasks in compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) and other regulatory requirements.
• Properly use the Blood Product Information System, as well as authorize and perform system overrides as needed and within scope of authority and ensure to escalate system problems as/if encountered, to management.
• Accurately perform testing of blood products and donor samples (i.e., hematology counts (CBC), and pH).
• Accurately record, interpret, and report test results. Ability to recognize and appropriately handle unacceptable test results.
• Verify acceptability of blood samples.
• Prepare and pack blood samples for send-out testing.
• Properly use laboratory equipment.
• Properly perform, and complete comprehension of, quality control and preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Maintain laboratory records; adhere to proper flow of paperwork.
• Perform blood component preparation from whole blood and apheresis collections.
• Label blood products.
• Perform quarantine, destruction, and release of blood products.
• Prepare, perform and report proficiency testing. (i.e. CAP)
• Accurately report errors.
• Evaluate blood component QC testing.
• Review and/or order and maintain proper inventory levels of laboratory supplies/reagents.
• Prepare laboratory statistical reports.
• Identify and troubleshoot problems encountered in assigned tasks and properly document corrective actions. Confer with managerial staff for resolution of problems, if necessary.
• Inform supervisory staff of any recommendations for process improvement.
• Present a professional image to customers, internal and external.
• Revision of company SOPs as required.
• This position has no direct supervisory responsibility.

Qualifications

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily using the skills and abilities outlined in this job description.
• The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
• Discretion in handling confidential and sensitive matters
• Meets department quality standards
• Good time management skills with the ability to complete assignments within established timelines
• Education, Experience, and Licensure:
• Bachelor's degree in biological, physical, or chemical sciences or medical technology is preferred
• New Grads will be considered
• At least 3 months of previous CLS working experience preferred
• Current California CLS Generalist license required
• MT (ASCP), preferred
• Blood donor center or transfusion service experience is a plus
• Technical Skills:
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to quickly learn new software programs as needed.
• Language Skills:
• Must have a good command of the English language and be able to communicate clearly and concisely in both written and verbal format.
• Mathematical Skills:
• Must be able to analyze and present quantitative data. Able to accurately compute basic mathematical equations such as addition, subtraction, division, multiplication, and percentages.
• Reasoning Ability:
• Must be able to analyze and interpret data relating to various projects and resolve issues and problems that arise.
• Must be able to resolve issues of a general and routine nature and exercise appropriate judgment to escalate issues to senior management.
• Must be able to effectively prioritize routine and nonroutine work assignments to ensure goals and timelines are met.
• Physical Demands and Work Environment:
• The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
• Work is conducted in the Shipping, Laboratory, Donor Center, or standard office environment.
• Temperatures are regulated by facilities management and are not within the direct control of the individual or company.
• Most work is conducted in open areas with associated distractions such as noise from telephones, keyboards, machines, doorbells, and talking.
• Work performed in the Shipping, Laboratory, and Donor Center is done primarily while standing (6 to 8 hours a day).
• Work performed in the office environment is performed primarily while sitting (6 to 8 hours a day).
• All work environments utilize keyboards, gaze at a monitor(s), utilize hands to grasp, reach, and hold.
• The employee must frequently lift or move up to 10 pounds over their shoulder and occasionally lift or move up to 50 pounds.
• Staff who works in the Shipping / Logistics or Warehouse departments may be required to lift or move more than 50 pounds while using proper safety equipment.
• Exposure to standard chemicals used in an office environment is expected.
• Additional exposure to Shipping, Laboratory, and Donor Room staff includes exposure to water, chemicals, bloodborne pathogens, waste, infectious material, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen.
• Refer to the Safety Data Sheets for a complete list.
• Staff must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when performing tasks that may expose to bloodborne pathogens, waste, infectious material, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen or as required per policy.
• Employee must use proper safety equipment, as directed.