Clinical Laboratory Scientist, IU Health Center

Department-specific role within the Indiana University Student Health Center (IUHC).

Responsibilities

• Performs a variety of clinical laboratory diagnostic tests in multiple disciplines (microbiology, hematology, chemistry, serology, molecular, urinalysis) to aid in patient diagnosis and treatment.
• Covers general laboratory operations including technical and diagnostic equipment operation, software utilization, quality control testing, patient specimen collection, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots diagnostic instruments and technical equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, automated and manual pipets, and timers.
• Utilizes Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) software to order tests, facilitate specimen collection, report results, and support laboratory operations.
• Processes and packages patient specimens for shipping; monitors and maintains laboratory supply levels.
• Completes reagent and equipment performance validations; evaluates quality control results, reports, and statistical data, taking corrective action as needed.
• Prints monthly QC and maintenance reports for laboratory manager review; submits monthly QC data to interlaboratory reporting entities.
• Coordinates and/or performs Proficiency Testing (PT) analyses; responds to alarms and manages workload to meet turnaround times.
• Demonstrates positive customer service and professionalism in patient and coworker interactions; performs phlebotomy and other specimen collection procedures.
• Adheres to safety guidelines, including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and performing hand hygiene to prevent exposure to hazards.
• Assists with patient care during acute reactions stemming from specimen collection; maintains BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
• Participates in meetings and activities to improve patient care, fulfill organizational goals, and engage staff.
• Collaborates with the laboratory manager to prepare for bi-annual COLA accreditation inspections; completes annual competency assessments as required by CLIA/COLA.
• Maintains ASCP or equivalent certification; acquires new technical knowledge through Continuing Education accepted by ASCP.

Lead Responsibilities

• Acts as lead technologist, overseeing laboratory activities and providing technical guidance and mentorship to staff.
• Resolves technical problems and takes remedial action for tests deviating from laboratory procedures.
• Performs advanced quality control analysis, review, and troubleshooting; documents and troubleshoots advanced maintenance and repairs for instrumentation.
• Creates and updates laboratory procedures according to accreditation requirements; trains new employees and conducts competency assessments.
• Coordinates and oversees laboratory supply ordering, inventory management, and disposal of expired reagents.
• Assists in preparation for accreditation inspections; maintains technical knowledge through continuing education.
• Performs phlebotomy, specimen collection, and clerical duties as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 5 years of experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
• ASCP Certification (American Society of Clinical Pathologists) or equivalent (preferred upon date of hire).

Skills

• Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
• High degree of professionalism, time management, and priority-setting abilities.
• Commitment to quality, flexibility in a fast-paced environment, and initiative to acquire specialized knowledge.
• High level of accuracy, thoroughness, and dependability, even under pressure.
• Ability to influence internal and external constituents; effective collaboration and teamwork.
• Delivery of high-quality patient care.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to communicate effectively.
• Frequently required to move about the work environment and position oneself to operate laboratory equipment.
• Ability to move objects weighing up to 25 pounds; occasional work near moving mechanical parts.
• Must meet CLIA requirements for education, training, proficiency testing, and annual technical competency assessments.
• Must be able to perform essential functions with or without accommodation.

Pay

Up to $74,000.00 annually.

Schedule

Standard hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance.
• Health savings account with generous IU contributions.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Basic group life insurance paid by IU.
• Voluntary supplemental life, long-term disability, critical illness, and supplemental accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
• Base retirement plan with generous IU contributions, subject to vesting.
• Voluntary supplemental retirement plan options.
• Tuition subsidy for employees and family members taking IU courses.
• 10 paid holidays plus a paid winter break each year.
• Generous paid time off plans.
• Paid leave for new parents and IU-sponsored volunteer events.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).