Medical Lab Scientist II

Lexington Health is a comprehensive network of care that includes six community medical and urgent care centers, nearly 80 physician practices, more than 9,000 health care professionals, and Lexington Medical Center, a 607-bed teaching hospital in West Columbia, South Carolina. Recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Healthcare by Modern Healthcare and first in the state to achieve Magnet with Distinction status for excellence in nursing care, Lexington Health delivers over 4,000 babies and performs more than 34,000 surgeries annually. The network also includes an accredited Cancer Center of Excellence, the state’s first HeartCARE Center, the largest skilled nursing facility in the Carolinas, and an Alzheimer’s care center.

About the role

The Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) provides laboratory services for inpatients and outpatients, ensuring high-quality testing and accurate analysis to improve patient outcomes. The MLS performs routine and specialty testing to deliver fast, precise diagnostic information.

Responsibilities

• Perform manual and automated laboratory testing, including specimen collection via venipuncture and capillary punctures.
• Process laboratory specimens according to assigned departments and accreditation requirements.
• Perform instrument calibration, quality control, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting; document and communicate issues appropriately.
• Serve as a technical resource, including training employees on instrument operation, troubleshooting, and updates.
• Review patient and instrument data for accuracy, recognize abnormal results, and conduct follow-up actions as required.
• Perform quality assurance activities, such as process improvement analysis, to enhance productivity and service.
• Adhere to safety policies and procedures, promoting a safe work environment.
• Provide patient care/support appropriate to the cognitive, physical, and emotional needs of the patient group served.
• Evaluate and implement new test procedures or instruments, and update existing procedures as needed.
• Perform management duties as assigned, including DOS phone responsibilities on second/third shifts.
• Train new employees and students on technical procedures and equipment, both clinically and in classroom settings.
• Collaborate with healthcare teams to achieve optimal patient care goals.
• Notify appropriate personnel of critical or "alert" test results and provide accurate information or referrals.
• Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in all communications.
• Participate in continuing education and facilitate learning for coworkers, students, and healthcare team members.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and incorporate differences into patient care.
• Engage in research and process improvement to enhance laboratory operations.
• Ensure proper disposal, storage, and management of hazardous waste and pharmaceuticals, completing RCRA training as required.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from a nationally or internationally accredited educational institution.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as an MLS or MT.
• Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MT/MLS) from the American Society of Clinical Pathologist (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC) or equivalent state/governmental certification (e.g., NCA, AMT, AAB). Certification may be at the MLS level or categorical (e.g., chemistry, hematology, blood bank, microbiology).
• ASCP BOC Specialty Certification as SBB, SC, SH, SM, SMB, or SCYM (if applicable).
• For candidates without ASCP BOC Specialty certification, 10 years of supervisory experience may substitute for the 3-year experience and certification requirement, provided the individual is hired in the specialty area of supervision.
• Must complete annual competency assessments as an MLS II.

Benefits

• Day-one medical, dental, and life insurance benefits.
• Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
• 403(b) match plan with dollar-for-dollar matching up to 6%.
• Employer-paid life insurance equal to 1x salary; optional supplemental life insurance up to 3x salary.
• Adoption assistance.
• Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage after 90 days of eligible employment.
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan forgiveness.

Schedule

Full-time day shift: 07:00–15:30, with rotating weekends.