Medical Lab Technologist (DNA)

Job Summary

The Medical Technologist works under the supervision of the Medical Lab Director / Medical Laboratory Manager and is responsible for performing tests and reporting results to the physician for use in diagnosis, treatment and/or monitoring treatment of diseases.

About the Role

Works in all areas of the laboratory according to established laboratory protocols and procedures. Conducts micro pipetting techniques on DNA lab sample preparation according to the Laboratory SOPs. Properly uses single channel, multichannel and repeater micropipettes. Instructs physicians and/or customers on the appropriate way to obtain sample specimens according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Processes specimens utilizing protocols and technical knowledge. Calibrates, standardizes and maintains instruments following established procedures. Performs quality control, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting protocols to ensure proper functioning of instruments, reagents, procedures. Validates and reports results of tests performed. Delivers patient reports according to times indicated in policy and collection manual. Assists with orientation and teaching students and new employees. Researches and develops new procedures as assigned. Follows established safety practices including biohazards, exposure control plan (blood-borne pathogens), infection control to include universal precautions, employee right to know (hazardous chemicals), and chemical hygiene standard. Promotes effective working relationships and works effectively as part of a department/unit/team inter and intra departmentally to facilitate the department/unit's ability to meet its goals and objectives. Attends all in-service education as required by the company and according to Florida licensure requirements. Demonstrates respect and regard for the dignity of all patients, families, visitors and fellow employees to ensure a professional, responsible and courteous environment. Completes all annual compliance OSHA and HIPAA training requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform tasks, duties and/or complex tests in all areas of the laboratory according to established laboratory protocols and procedures.
• Conduct micro pipetting techniques on DNA lab sample preparation according to the Laboratory SOPs. Properly use single channel, multichannel and repeater micropipettes.
• Instruct Physicians and/ or customers on the appropriate way to obtain sample specimens according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
• Process specimens utilizing protocols and technical knowledge.
• Calibrate, standardize and maintain instruments following established procedures.
• Perform quality control, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting protocols to ensure proper functioning of instruments, reagents, procedures.
• Validate and report results of tests performed.
• Deliver patients reports according to times indicated in policy and collection manual.
• Assist with orientation and teaching students and new employees.
• Research and develop new procedures as assigned.
• Follow established safety practices including biohazards, exposure control plan (blood-borne pathogens), infection control to include universal precautions, employee right to know (hazardous chemicals), and chemical hygiene standard.
• Promote effective working relationships and works effectively as part of a department / unit / team inter and intra departmentally to facilitate the department/unit’s ability to meet its goals and objectives.
• Attend all in-service education as required by the company and according to Florida licensure requirements.
• Demonstrate respect and regard for the dignity of all patients, families, visitors and fellow employees to ensure a professional, responsible and courteous environment.
• Complete all annual compliance OSHA and HIPAA training requirements.

Requirements

• Educational background must meet one (1) of the following specifications:
  • Ninety (90) college-level credits completed plus completed a clinical laboratory training program.
  • Associate degree in clinical/medical technology from accredited institution.
  • Associate degree plus completed a military clinical laboratory training program of at least 1500 hours.
  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Biology, Chemistry, or other scientific discipline with either a completed clinical laboratory training program OR three (3) years of experience.
• Pass the ASCP, NCA, AAB, AMT, or AAB’s Board of Registry’s examination for Medical Technologist.
• Valid Florida License as a Medical Technologist in all areas.
• Minimum one year direct experience in a clinical laboratory setting with molecular diagnosis required.
• Knowledge, Skills And Abilities:
  • Strong knowledge of and skills in molecular genetic laboratory including: extraction of nucleic acids from human saliva, standard and real-time PCR, automated DNA sequencing and fragment analysis, and next generation sequencing.
  • Fully proficient with micro pipetting techniques on DNA lab sample preparation according to the Laboratory SOPs. Knows how to properly use single channel, multichannel and repeater micropipettes.
  • Knowledge of chemistry techniques, laboratory best practices and safety management techniques, HIPAA, FDA Health Regulations, Infection Control, and Clinical Lab Testing.
  • Strong clinical toxicology knowledge and practical skills, especially with urine sample preparation, hydrolysis, sample injection into LCMSMS analyzers, data quantitation and troubleshooting.
  • Understanding of Mobile Phase Preparation, Internal Standards and Quality Control Materials.
  • Strong documentation and analytical skills.
  • Computer skills- proficient in Microsoft Office, LIS, and EHR management in a laboratory information system.
  • Ability to read and communicate effectively in English. Additional languages preferred.
  • Ability to communicate in a professional manner-- able to counsel/teach customers, train co-workers, and positively contribute to marketing/public relations.
  • Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from patients, regulatory agencies, or members of the medical and business community.
  • Ability to work 50% or greater of work day performing pipetting techniques on both toxicology lab samples(specimens).