Medical Lab Scientist 2 - Microbiology

Posted: 04-Aug-26 • Location: Nashville, Tennessee

About the role

Performs routine and complex clinical pathology testing and instrument management of laboratory services. Responsible for accurately recording results and ensuring timely delivery of results. Has the authority, responsibility, and accountability for the accurate performance of laboratory test methodologies used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients and the evaluation of patient response to treatment. Applies clinical knowledge to achieve accurate clinical test results, leading to quality patient care outcomes.

This position operates on a 3pm-1:30am M-F with rotating weekends schedule in a beautiful lab with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Responsibilities

• Provides patient-focused care in a clinical setting through the accurate performance of routine and complex tests across the pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic stages.
• Performs qualitative and quantitative analytical procedures, including reagent preparation and appropriate quality control, according to required protocols with precision and accuracy in a timely and efficient manner.
• Demonstrates knowledge of techniques, principles, and instruments and their interrelationships, as well as physiological conditions affecting test results.
• Performs data analysis, including navigating established technology environments to locate, validate, extract, and format data for analysis. Modifies and runs queries and standard reports.
• Participates in quality assurance processes, including continuous analysis and evaluation of work processes, establishing and monitoring standards, and contributing creative solutions for improvement.
• Maintains laboratory equipment, ensuring sufficient parts inventory and troubleshooting issues as needed.
• Delivers diagnostic testing results with proficiency, leveraging knowledge, training, and experience.
• Mentors and coaches others by providing positive direction, feedback, and constructive suggestions to improve performance.
• Supports colleagues through relationship-building, effective communication, and compassionate service delivery.
• Ensures high-quality work by addressing quality issues promptly, identifying root causes of problems, and adhering to safety and regulatory requirements.
• Manages resources effectively by demonstrating accountability, stewarding organizational resources, and making data-driven decisions.
• Fosters innovation by generating new ideas, applying technology to address challenges, and adapting to change proactively.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (required).
• Less than 1 year of relevant work experience.
• Certification in one of the following:
  • LIC-Medical Laboratory Act - Tennessee
  • Medical Laboratory Scientist - American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
  • Medical Technologist - American Medical Technologists (AMT)

Benefits

This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Vanderbilt Health, supported by a comprehensive benefits package which may include health, disability, retirement, and/or wellness offerings to enhance your well-being and professional growth.

About Vanderbilt Health

Vanderbilt University Medical Center is home to Vanderbilt University Hospital, The Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, the Vanderbilt Psychiatric Hospital, and the Vanderbilt Stallworth Rehabilitation Hospital. These hospitals experienced more than 61,000 inpatient admissions during fiscal year 2015, with adult and pediatric clinics treating nearly 2 million patients in the same period.

Vanderbilt University Hospital and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt are recognized by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals as among the nation’s best, with 18 nationally ranked specialties. Vanderbilt Health is a major center for patient referrals throughout the Mid-South, known for its leadership in medical science, innovation, and compassionate care.

As the largest employer in middle Tennessee, Vanderbilt Health fosters a caring, culturally sensitive, and professional atmosphere. Employees benefit from ongoing development opportunities, a comprehensive benefits package, and a sense of community and purpose. Vanderbilt is committed to the principles of equal opportunity and encourages high-achieving individuals to thrive in an environment that values expertise, continuous learning, and collaboration.