Medical Laboratory Scientist I

Worland, Wyoming – Gen Lab-Washakie, Day shift, full-time (32 hours/week)

About the role

This position is responsible for a high level of technical knowledge and its application to department testing, clinical relevance, and complex problem-solving. It serves as a department resource and assists with compliance for all pertinent laboratory accrediting agency and regulatory requirements (e.g., CLIA ’88, JCAHO, CAP, OSHA). The role may include collection, receipt, and processing of biological specimens into the laboratory and performs all functions according to established policies, procedures, regulatory, and accreditation requirements, as well as applicable professional standards.

Responsibilities

• Performs testing accurately and timely according to established policies and performance standards.
• Responsible for startup, calibration, and accuracy of procedures and instrumentation.
• Actively participates in problem-solving activities within the department using advanced decision-making skills.
• Demonstrates advanced knowledge and application of all computer systems used in the department.
• Demonstrates advanced knowledge of theory and clinical relevance of testing.
• Assists in ensuring compliance with accrediting agencies and regulatory requirements.
• Assumes lead responsibility in the absence of on-site departmental leadership personnel.
• Recognizes, ensures validity, and assists in monitoring abnormal patient and/or QC results of testing.
• Ensures accuracy of test results and participates in detecting/documenting occurrences that deviate from defined procedures.
• Participates in department and LSA/SQL System process improvement and quality assurance activities, including monitoring indicators of productivity and quality.
• Monitors and controls inventory and assists in providing financial data for the department.
• Actively participates in process improvements to decrease costs, improve productivity, and enhance service.
• Contributes to additional department/System projects and actively trains department employees.
• Participates on at least one committee, team, or special project identified with department management.
• Exhibits awareness of medical/legal consequences of professional actions.
• May assist in new employee orientation, training, and competency assessments.
• Provides input for competency and annual assessments for employees in appropriate time frames.
• Completes training modules for newly hired/transferred personnel.
• Acts as a department resource by providing educational information to internal and external customers.
• Demonstrates advanced verbal and written communication skills, attendance, and participation at staff meetings.
• Demonstrates preceptor and coaching skills, promoting a constructive environment that encourages learning and development.
• Processes and/or prepares patient samples as required, including specimen collection, general laboratory specimen processing, and referral laboratory processing, ensuring correct patient/specimen identification and integrity.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science/medical technology, OR
• Bachelor’s degree in chemical or biological science (transcripts may be reviewed to determine eligibility), AND
• Either certification (MLS or categorical) OR a certificate of completion/letter of attestation on school letterhead documenting completion of any categorical or combination of categoricals from an accredited Medical Laboratory Science program.
• Individuals working in Nevada or California are required to maintain their certification throughout their time in the position.
• Foreign-educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF (International Education Research Foundation) or another nationally recognized credentialing agency for review to determine eligibility.
• For certain specialty disciplines (e.g., Toxicology, HLA, HCTT) where no certification is available, a bachelor’s degree with one year of experience in that discipline is required.
• Demonstrated competency in phlebotomy in departments where applicable.

Preferred Qualifications

• MLS/MT or categorical certification (ASCP, AMT, HEW, AAB).
• Basic knowledge of specimen requirements and medical terminology.
• Previous experience with phlebotomy and processing.
• Additional related education and/or experience.