Medical Technologist I - Hematology

Location: Chicago, IL (on-site)

About the Organization

The University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health) provides comprehensive care, education, and research to the people of Illinois and beyond. A part of the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), UI Health comprises a clinical enterprise that includes a Joint Commission-accredited tertiary care hospital and outpatient clinics, and the Mile Square Health Center network of federally qualified health centers. It also includes the seven UIC health science colleges: the College of Applied Health Sciences; the College of Dentistry; the School of Public Health; the Jane Addams College of Social Work; and the Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Nursing, including regional campuses in Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford, Springfield, and Urbana. UI Health is dedicated to the pursuit of health equity.

About the Role

The Medical Technologist I performs a variety of moderately or highly complex tests on patient samples and performs quality control for hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, stool, and body fluids procedures based on laboratory policies. This role involves both manual methods requiring technical and scientific knowledge, and automated analyzers requiring troubleshooting and maintenance skills. The position also assists in training laboratory personnel, new employees, medical residents, and students in medical technology principles and techniques.

Responsibilities

• Performs moderately and highly complex tests using analyzers and/or manual methods on blood, urine, body fluids, stool, and other specimens following established procedures.
• Reviews test results for validity and clinical relevance using technical and scientific knowledge.
• Follows laboratory procedures and policies, notifying caregivers of critical results in compliance with HIPAA standards.
• Performs quality assurance procedures (quality control testing, instrument function checks, calibrations) and documents irregularities.
• Operates, troubleshoots, and resolves technical problems with instruments, documenting corrective actions.
• Responds to error flags for critical results, delta checks, required dilutions, and result patterns; notifies physicians of life-threatening results.
• Assesses accuracy and validity of test results using scientific principles, identifying critical changes for patient care.
• Prepares specimens for testing or referral to other laboratories.
• Maintains a safe, orderly, and OSHA-compliant working environment.
• Provides professional and helpful customer service to physicians, patients, staff, and visitors.
• Participates in CAP proficiency testing, internal/external proficiency testing, and quality assurance monitoring.
• Completes Continuing Education (CE) requirements annually.
• Performs LIS-related functions, including instrument checks, status reports, and basic maintenance.
• Assists in training laboratory personnel, new employees, medical residents, and students in medical technology principles and techniques.
• Performs other related duties and participates in special projects as assigned.

Discipline-Specific Areas

• Complete Blood Counts Testing
• Manual Differentials Testing
• Hemostasis Testing
• Urinalysis Testing
• Body Fluid Analysis Testing
• Automated, High-Volume Testing
• Miscellaneous Manual Hematologic and Hemostasis Methods Testing

Requirements

• High school graduation or equivalent.
• Meets CLIA standards for laboratory testing personnel (Subpart M, Section 493.1489).
• Bachelor’s degree in Science meeting CLIA requirements for high complexity testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of procedures for handling infectious specimens safely.
• Ability to identify technical and clinical problems and escalate to senior staff.
• Complete understanding of theoretical applications in Hematology, including cell identification.
• Ability to perform microscopic examinations with normal color perception and concentration for long periods.
• Thorough knowledge of quality control and safety procedures.
• Strong communication skills with peers, supervisors, healthcare staff, and visitors.
• Understanding of laboratory functions in healthcare and the importance of flexibility, professionalism, and quality assurance.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents

Pay

$35.01–$62.90 hourly (final salary determined by market data, internal equity, candidate experience, and budget).

Schedule

• Full-time (1.0 FTE)
• Monday–Friday, with rotational weekends
• Night shift