Medical Laboratory Scientist - Hematology

About the role

The Quest Diagnostics laboratory team is growing in Houston, TX and hiring for the Hematology lab. Full time positions are presently available on night shift. New Grad MLS and MLT are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate proficiency in all areas of testing and troubleshoot applicable instruments/procedures in the department.
• Provide support in quality control, troubleshooting complex problems, customer support, instrument and equipment maintenance, staff training, process improvement, and completion of special projects as assigned.
• Perform and report assigned analytical tests in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), ensuring quality control requirements are met.
• Support and comply with laboratory policies and procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analysis, reporting, and maintaining records of patient test results.
• Adhere to analytical schedules to maintain turnaround time of results, including STATS or critical results to clients.
• Ensure reagents/test kits have received dates, expiration dates, and opened dates documented.
• Perform and document QC analysis to ensure accuracy of clinical data and proper instrument function; make quality control decisions regarding assay or test disposition.
• Inform supervisory personnel of all problems associated with proper performance of test procedures.
• Report any actual or potential deviation from standard or accepted testing procedures and cooperate fully with any investigation.
• Enter test results into the Laboratory Information System for standardized report generation for physician review and interpretation.
• Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional, and sanitary condition.
• Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate; may assist supervisor with training of other laboratory personnel.
• Adhere to all established CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, and laboratory safety requirements; use personal protective equipment, engineering controls, and/or work practice controls as directed.
• Answer questions from clients or other lab personnel, if applicable.
• Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections, if needed.
• May be required, in the absence of a Supervisor, to assume lead responsibilities if qualified and delegated.

Requirements

• One (1) year full-time experience or training (high complexity testing) in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Hematology experience preferred.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Lifting and carrying objects: Objects 1 to 10 pounds frequently; 11 to 25 pounds occasionally; 36 to 50 pounds seldom; over 50 pounds not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
• Ability to stand and work at the bench for long periods of time.
• Frequent walking and/or standing.
• Use of a wide variety of manual and automated pipettes and laboratory instruments requiring significant manual dexterity.

Qualifications

• Comprehensive theoretical and operational job knowledge in designated specialty required.
• Knowledge of organizational/departmental policies and procedures.
• BS/BA in Medical Technology, Chemistry, or Biology; or Associates degree in a Laboratory Science or Medical Technology; or previously qualified as a Technologist under 42 CFR 493.1433.
• Foreign educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF (International Education Research Foundation). United States-educated candidates must provide a detailed original transcript.
• Other state specific requirements may apply depending on BU’s state testing certifications.

Skills

• Proven leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented with ability to work independently, establish work priorities, and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and clients.
• Communication skills necessary to handle telephone inquiries from clients.
• Ability to handle client information in a confidential manner.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.

Education

• Associates Degree in Laboratory Science or Medical Technology (Preferred)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Technology, Biology, or Chemistry (Preferred)

Licenses and Certifications

• ASCP Certification (Preferred)

Pay

Pay range: $29.50+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Salary offers are based on relevant skills, training, experience, education, certifications, market, and organizational factors. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.

Benefits

• Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for full-time employees working 30+ hours
• Best-in-class well-being programs
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program
• Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program
• Vacation and Health/Flex Time
• 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
• FinFit financial coaching and services
• 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Annual incentive plans
• Matching gifts program
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
• Career advancement opportunities