Medical Laboratory Scientist - Blood Bank

About the role

Under the general supervision of the Specialist, Manager, or Director, performs various complex clinical laboratory tests in one or more of the laboratory sections of the Pathology Department. The work requires a professional level of knowledge to read and interpret test results, especially abnormal or atypical ones. Responsibilities may include calibration of equipment, performance and interpretation of highly complex testing and corresponding Quality Control results, and troubleshooting of equipment as needed. All functions reflect the age-specific needs of the patient.

Brown University Health employees are expected to role model the organization's values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence in everyday actions with patients, customers, and one another.

Responsibilities

• Receives specimens, confirms patient identification, validates physician orders and labels, and avoids specimen contamination.
• Prepares and determines suitability of solutions, reagents, and stains following standard formulas and procedures; confirms expiration dates.
• Dates, initials reagents and QC materials appropriately once opened.
• Follows established procedures to perform complex clinical tests using methodologies including EIA, IFA, Chemiluminescence, RIA, Electrophoresis, Immunoassay, and Colorimetry.
• Performs complex clinical laboratory tests requiring professional knowledge to monitor procedures, interpret and analyze results, and determine clinical significance.
• Collaborates with other technologists to confirm unusual results or procedural variations; may review with Specialist, Manager, or Director.
• Records and reports test results to ordering physician or Department of Health as required.
• Assists in instruction of students, residents, and orientation/training of new employees in assigned laboratory section.
• Performs quality control checks on equipment and reagents, records values, and identifies potential problems.
• Performs new tests during developmental stages and recommends modifications or establishment of new procedures.
• Monitors, sets up, and calibrates equipment; troubleshoots operational problems; performs preventative maintenance and minor repairs with manufacturer support as needed.
• Cleans and maintains laboratory equipment, glassware, instruments, and work benches.
• Helps maintain inventory control, including stocking supplies to ensure laboratory readiness.
• Participates in quality assurance and improvement programs as needed.
• Maintains Rhode Island State CLS License, requiring a minimum of 15 hours per year in continuing education and current knowledge of clinical laboratory theories and technologies.
• Complies with all QA, Safety, Infection Control, and HIPAA guidelines per hospital and departmental policies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a lab science such as chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, medical technology, or closely related field, or equivalent education and experience as defined by CLIA standards.

Credentials

• National certification by ASCP or equivalent in categories such as Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Hematology, or other recognized categorical certifications.
• OR eligible for national certification with laboratory training including completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by ABHES, NAACLS, or other HHS-approved organization.
• OR previously qualified or could have qualified as a technologist as defined by CLIA standards for testing personnel.

Requirements

• Ability to operate equipment and instruments and perform all procedures and tests within the assigned laboratory section and interpret them accurately.
• Physical and visual dexterity necessary to conduct and interpret tests.
• Physical ability to stand and work at laboratory benches.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills to provide patient care considering aging processes, human development stages, and cultural patterns.

Experience

• One year of experience in a clinical laboratory.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Exposure to odors, infectious materials, toxins, and other hazardous substances.
• Visual strain from closely examining specimens.
• Regularly required to stand, lift, and carry supplies.

Pay

$29.53–$48.72 per hour

Schedule

• First shift
• Rotating weekends and holidays
• Day shift
• 8 hours daily
• Driving not required