Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Renton Central Lab: Microbiology

About the Role

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Renton, WA has an opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1 with the Microbiology Team at the Renton Central Lab. The Microbiology Laboratory features state-of-the-art instrumentation and a first-class facility, providing an outstanding environment for high-quality diagnostic testing and professional growth. As a regional reference laboratory, the Renton Central Laboratory offers exposure to a diverse and complex test menu, collaboration with experienced professionals, and opportunities to expand technical expertise.

Responsibilities

• Prepares, evaluates, and reports direct smears including Gram stains, KOH preps, Pneumocystis DFA stains, Auramine-O stains, Kinyoun stains, and Wright/Giemsa.
• Performs tests for the identification of bacteria, yeast, mold, and parasites on routine benches per laboratory protocols.
• Conducts susceptibility tests (disk diffusion, E-test, MIC, and other methods) on pathogens per laboratory protocols.
• Performs serological procedures including PCR, EIA, and latex agglutinations.
• Rotates and maintains competency in all trained sections.
• Operates laboratory equipment (e.g., automated blood culture system, mass spectrometry instrument, automated susceptibility system, Verigene, BioFire, Cepheid Gene Xpert, microscopes, biological safety cabinet, anoxomat) and performs basic maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Uses the laboratory information system software and trains others on its use.
• Understands and follows quality control requirements to validate results.
• Manages workloads independently, requests assistance when needed, and performs work accurately and precisely.
• Recognizes, corrects, and documents errors.
• Interacts professionally with healthcare providers and follows policies for reporting critical or reportable results to medical staff, epidemiology, or Public Health Laboratory.
• Assists with the evaluation of new tests/equipment and research projects.
• Instructs new employees, students, residents, and fellows in routine procedures.
• Pursues continuing education through seminars, in-services, staff meetings, scientific journals, and CAP proficiency surveys.

Requirements

For an MLS Trainee:

• Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience.
• Eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months from date of hire. Failure to attain certification may result in termination.

For an MLS 1:

• Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience.
• Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with ASCP or equivalent certifying organization, or certification with a specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division.
• One (1) year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee. Up to one year of on-the-job experience in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward this requirement.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when legal requirements apply.

Benefits

• Vacation and sick time that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits per quarter at participating institutions.
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) for regional transportation.
• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, disability, and retirement plans.
• Access to fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes through the Whole U program.

Pay

Pay Range: $38.46 – $56.73 hourly

Schedule

• 100% FTE (full-time).
• Day shift (schedule to be discussed with hiring manager).

About the Department

The Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine is a regional resource for clinical laboratory services, combining accredited laboratories with academic resources to deliver innovative patient care, research, and educational programs. Recognized for clinical training excellence, world-class research, and community service, the department serves labs and medical facilities nationally and internationally.

About UW Medicine

UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system with a top-rated medical school and internationally recognized research center. Its mission is to improve public health through medical knowledge, outstanding care, and training future healthcare professionals. Nearly 29,000 employees work across UW Medicine’s organizations, including hospitals, primary care, specialty care, and the UW School of Medicine.