Medical Laboratory Scientist
Fairview is seeking a Medical Laboratory Scientist for M Health Fairview Ridges Hospital in Burnsville, MN. This is a 0.7 FTE position with 56 hours per 2-week pay period on the evening shift (2:30pm–11pm), including every other weekend and rotating holidays. Eligible for a $700 shift incentive bonus paid out every 6 months (pro-rated by FTE).
About the role
The Acute Care Laboratory at M Health Fairview Ridges Hospital performs clinical hematology, chemistry, blood gas, coagulation, urinalysis, transfusion medicine, and blood collection and processing. The hospital serves a variety of pediatric and adult patients and operates the busiest Emergency Department in the system. The laboratory team includes approximately 90 employees, including five pathologists, and is staffed 24/7.
The Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) functions independently in performing all major work responsibilities of professional laboratory practice, including complex diagnostic and therapeutic testing. The MLS acts as a resource for problem resolution, correlates data based on clinical knowledge and technical expertise, and collaborates with laboratory customers to promote satisfaction. The MLS also participates in laboratory performance improvement activities.
Responsibilities
- Follow established guidelines to obtain specimens and prioritize work.
- Obtain specimens from patients of all ages and degrees of physical and/or mental disability.
- Properly verify patient identity and assess specimen integrity before testing.
- Perform waived, moderate, or high complexity testing as defined by CLIA ’88.
- Operate laboratory instrumentation and information systems according to procedure.
- Complete specified maintenance on instruments and recognize/resolve problems.
- Act as a resource for troubleshooting lab procedures and unexpected events.
- Initiate proper safety or emergency responses and consult with supervisor if needed.
- Evaluate testing results for accuracy and determine if results fall within normal parameters.
- Correlate data based on clinical knowledge and technical expertise.
- Communicate abnormal and critical results directly to caregivers.
- Document deviations, reagent checks, and compliance with regulations.
- Participate in laboratory performance improvement programs.
- Orient and mentor new employees and students in testing methodology and instrumentation.
- Adjust care or service approaches to reflect developmental and cultural differences.
Requirements
- Baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited college/university in a related laboratory field, including lab practicum or equivalent routes meeting CLIA ’88 qualifications for high complexity testing personnel. Transcript or diploma must be provided.
- One of the following educational paths:
- Baccalaureate degree in chemical, biological, clinical, or medical laboratory science.
- Baccalaureate degree with 16 semester hours in biology (including one semester in microbiology) and 16 semester hours in chemistry (including one semester in organic or biochemistry).
- Transcript evaluation verifying equivalency to a U.S. Baccalaureate degree.
- Completion of a 50-week U.S. military medical laboratory training course plus a Baccalaureate degree with 16 semester hours in biology (including microbiology) and 16 semester hours in chemistry (including organic or biochemistry).
- Master’s degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, chemistry, biology, cytology, immunology, immunohematology, microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or a related field.
- Possess or be eligible to receive HHS-approved laboratory certification (ASCP, ASCPi, or AMT - MLS or MT) within 1 year, or hold HEW Medical Technologist certification.
Benefits
Fairview offers a generous benefit package, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision plans
- Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance
- Paid time off (PTO) and Sick and Safe Time
- Tuition reimbursement
- Retirement plans
- Early access to earned wages
Additional information: https://www.fairview.org/careers/benefits/noncontract
Pay
Compensation is determined by skills, knowledge, relevant education, experience, and market conditions. Pay equity is prioritized, and hiring at the maximum of the range is not typical. If eligible, a sign-on bonus may be offered based on the approved program at the time of hire.
Schedule
- 0.7 FTE (56 hours per 2-week pay period)
- Evening shift: 2:30pm–11pm
- Every other weekend and rotating holidays