First Shift Laboratory Technologist I or II

About the role

This position is responsible for specimen processing, test performance (one or more donor screening platforms), and reporting test results in a high complexity laboratory serving multiple internal and external clients. The laboratory performs infectious disease and immunohematology testing relevant to blood and HCT/P donor screening as required by the FDA and New York State Department of Health.

Responsibilities

• Specimen Processing (Pre-analytic)
  • Receive, label, and prepare samples for testing; ensuring proper handling and storage.
  • Prepare and pack samples for send-out testing according to IATA shipping requirements.
• Perform Donor Screening Testing (Analytic)
  • Performs testing and interprets data to generate test results on one or more donor screening platforms (serologic testing for viral markers, immunohematology, Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT/PCR), or additional viral screening assays).
  • Utilizes multiple laboratory information systems and operates a variety of lab equipment according to established policies and procedures.
  • Reports results accordingly; performs only those tests authorized by the CLIA/NYSDOH laboratory director and commensurate with education, training, experience, and technical abilities.
• Data Analysis (Post-Analytic)
  • Performs primary record review of test records.
  • Performs secondary record review once trained and competent, as assigned by supervisor.
• Documentation and Reporting
  • Ensures adherence to Good Documentation Practices by accurately documenting on all test records.
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • Recognizes and reports to department leadership problems encountered during performance of job tasks including unusual test results, discrepancy in test controls, or controls outside established normal limits.
  • Documents Failed Runs, as applicable.
• Equipment Troubleshooting
  • Performs troubleshooting steps for equipment malfunctions.
  • Follows equipment out of service procedure and documents corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the established performance specifications.
• Error Management
  • Documents when deviations from standard operating procedures (SOPs) are discovered.
  • Assists with investigations and complies with corrective/preventative actions implemented.
• Inventory Management
  • Performs and documents inventory receipt procedures for test reagents and supplies according to established policies and procedures.
  • Monitors and maintains adequate laboratory supplies.
• Quality Control
  • Performs and documents quality control procedures for test reagents (reagent prequalification) according to established policies and procedures.
  • Maintains strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices, ensuring meticulous attention to detail in all processes.
• Equipment Maintenance
  • Performs and documents routine maintenance/calibration activities for all laboratory equipment on which the individual is currently trained.
  • Follows laboratory policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory’s established performance specifications.
• Regulatory Compliance
  • Complies with all established policies and procedures including testing and reporting protocols, safety practices, donor and patient confidentiality policies, and personnel practices.
• Safety and Sanitation
  • Promotes and contributes to a culture of safety through compliance with all safety SOPs to include wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., safety shields/goggles, gloves, lab coats and proper shoes).
  • Promptly reports all safety violation observations and/or safety concerns.
  • Assures a clean and orderly work area including maintenance and efficient use of reagents, supplies and stored samples.
• Customer Service
  • Provides excellent customer service to both external and internal customers.
  • Promotes teamwork and communication both internally and externally.
• Secondary Functions
  • Additional Regulatory Compliance
    • Satisfactorily performs assigned proficiency testing in the same manner as donor samples and always follows Good Manufacturing Processes, with attention to detail.
    • Successfully completes annual competency assessment programs and annual organizational training.
  • Continuous Improvement
    • Complete required continuing education credits to meet national or state regulatory requirements.
  • Research and Clinical Trials
    • Participates in clinical trials and/or investigational studies of reagents, equipment, or new test methods.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of AABB, FDA and OSHA regulations.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Suites.
• Comprehend and apply clinical laboratory procedures and theory.
• Working knowledge of LIS and BECS.
• Working Knowledge of all institutional and personnel policies, confidentiality, and Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).

Skills

• Cultural competency and the ability to communicate effectively in a culturally sensitive manner with both individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds.
• Written and oral communication skills and computer input/retrieval.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Accurate in transcription of numbers.
• Decision making.
• Demonstrate reliability and strong work ethic.

Abilities

• Resolve problems and customer concerns.
• Maintain composure under pressure.
• Work in a team environment or independently.
• Work irregular hours or overtime as dictated by departmental needs.

Requirements

• Lab Tech I
  • Associate’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) required.
  • OR Bachelor of Science degree in chemical or biological science, with minimum requirement of 6 credits of biology and 6 credits of chemistry completed.
  • OR BA in core sciences (approval is dependent on transcript review).
  • Must meet testing personnel requirements as described in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 for Highly Complex Laboratory.
• Lab Tech II
  • Associate’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) or Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science (CLS/MLS/MT).
  • OR Bachelor of Science degree in chemical or biological science, with minimum requirement of 6 credits of biology and 6 credits of chemistry completed.
  • OR BA in core sciences (approval is dependent on transcript review).
  • Must meet testing personnel requirements as described in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 for Highly Complex Laboratory.
  • Bachelor’s degree (non-MLS) with at least 1 year of relevant experience in a clinical testing laboratory.
  • OR Associate’s degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience in a clinical testing laboratory.
  • Any combination of education, training and experience equivalent to the requirements above that has supplied the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Licenses/Certification
  • National Clinical Laboratory Certification (ASCP or equivalent national clinical certification).
  • Must be obtained within 1 year of employment for Lab Tech I.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds.
• Must also be able to stand for long periods and sit, stand, walk and lift alternately throughout the duration of the shift.

Schedule

• 1st shift 40 hrs. (4 – 10 hr. shifts) 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM; includes every other weekend and holiday.

Pay

• Lab Tech I: $27.66/hr.
• Lab Tech II: $30.80 – $33.00/hr.