Technologist I, Immunohematology Reference Lab, Blood Bank Trainee Program

The American Red Cross offers a unique opportunity to be part of the world’s largest humanitarian network, where your career becomes a force for good. This role provides hands-on learning and growth within a mission-driven organization that values diversity, unity, and purpose.

About the Role

This short-term training position in the Blood Bank Technology (BBT) Program prepares candidates for certification and transition into a Technologist I role within the Immunohematology Reference Laboratory (IRL). Participants will gain comprehensive, hands-on experience in donor and patient testing, serologic interpretation, and laboratory operations while completing a structured curriculum designed to prepare them for the AAB Board of Registry (ABOR) MT–Immunohematology exam and, in some cases, the BB(ASCP) certification.

Responsibilities

• Perform telephone consultations, including receiving and completing orders for antigen-negative products.
• Coordinate the receipt, shipment, and transport of patient and donor blood samples.
• Manage supply and reagent inventory, including ordering, receiving, inspection, preparation, and quality control.
• Maintain equipment, reagents, and stock to ensure the quality and accuracy of laboratory test procedures.
• Perform and interpret basic donor and patient testing procedures under the guidance of an IRL technologist, including guided complex serologic problem resolution.
• Complete required quality control in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Recognize testing irregularities, identify causes, determine solutions, and resolve problems or escalate as needed.
• Maintain, edit, and review computer and manual records to ensure accurate and complete documentation.
• Successfully complete all BBT program requirements, pass applicable registry/certification exams, and obtain any required state licensure upon graduation.
• Work under clear guidelines and supervision to perform tasks and resolve problems within a specialized medical/scientific discipline.

Requirements

• MLT certification or meet one of the following educational criteria:
  • An associate degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology; or
  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with at least one of the following:
    • 24 semester hours in medical laboratory technology courses; or
    • 24 semester hours in science courses, including:
      • 6 semester hours of chemistry
      • 6 semester hours of biology
      • 12 additional semester hours in any combination of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology.
• Must hold a state license if required by the state.

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective interaction with internal and external customers.
• Basic proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Word.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Operational flexibility to meet sudden and unpredictable needs.
• Requires standing, stretching, stooping, and bending for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, pull, push, and move objects of up to 50 pounds.
• May work in walk-in refrigerator/freezers for extended periods.
• Ability to work under pressure and within time constraints.
• Required to wear protective clothing (e.g., lab coats, gloves, face shields) when exposed to blood and blood products.
• Ability to use a wide variety of laboratory or medical equipment.
• Ability to use a personal computer and applicable software for sustained periods.

Travel

May involve variable locations and some travel.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Health Spending Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Paid time off (PTO): Starting at 15 days per year, based on job type and tenure.
• 11 paid holidays (6 core holidays + 5 floating holidays).
• 401K with up to a 6% employer match.
• Paid Family Leave.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Service awards and recognition.