Clinical Lab Scientist I - Serology

Quest Diagnostics

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Clinical Lab Scientist I is accountable for performing clinical laboratory testing in the Serology department while following applicable policies and procedures. The role performs moderate to highly complex tests, prepares and evaluates reagents and controls, assesses specimen suitability, calculates and enters test results, and verifies the accuracy and acceptability of results before release. The scientist also maintains laboratory equipment, performs quality control and calibration, troubleshoots technical issues, and initiates corrective action when test systems do not meet established criteria. The position supports safe and orderly laboratory operations, accurate tracking of supplies, effective communication with colleagues and customers, and participation in staff and quality improvement meetings. It may also take on projects such as evaluating new techniques, comparing methods, analyzing costs, establishing reference ranges, revising procedures, and assessing productivity. The role may provide direct supervision and training to unlicensed staff, support training programs, and requires continuing education that meets California state licensure requirements.

Requirements

Zero to three years of direct experience in a laboratory setting.
Bachelor's degree in medical technology or another life or physical science from an accredited college or university.
Current state Clinical Laboratory Scientist license when necessary, such as in California.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Ability to perform repetitive tasks and frequent simple grasping, reaching, and fine manipulation.
Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods and to perform work requiring good eye-hand coordination.
Ability to lift and carry objects: 1–10 pounds frequently, 11–25 pounds occasionally, and 26–50 pounds seldom; objects over 50 pounds require assistance.
Color blindness testing is required upon hiring or transfer into technical functions requiring detection of or rating the intensity of colors.

Nice To Haves

Strong typing skills.
Other automation skills.

Responsibilities

Independently perform moderate to highly complex clinical tests according to required procedures and policies.
Perform newly introduced laboratory tests requiring defined skills.
Prepare or oversee the preparation of reagents, media, stock solutions, standards, and controls.
Test new reagents and controls and evaluate their usefulness against standard criteria.
Determine whether specimens are acceptable for testing according to established criteria.
Calculate results using manual or computerized procedures and accurately enter test results.
Review computer reports, adhere to analytical schedules, and evaluate analyses before releasing patient reports.
Recognize critical, unusual, or unexpected results, take appropriate action, and document actions taken.
Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, instrument performance checks, and required linearity, accuracy, and precision checks.
Perform quality control and calibrations at the required frequency, evaluate results, and select and assess control materials.
Initiate corrective action when test systems do not perform according to established criteria.
Accurately perform and record proficiency testing and detect and correct technical or operational problems.
Notify the supervisor and contact manufacturer or field service support when additional assistance is needed.
Track and label reagents and supplies accurately and maintain a safe, neat work area.
Communicate effectively with staff, managers, suppliers, and internal and external customers; participate in staff and quality improvement meetings as assigned.
Take on additional business-related responsibilities or projects as delegated, including evaluating techniques and procedures, method comparison, cost analysis, establishing reference ranges, revising technical procedures, and evaluating productivity and key results measures.
Follow company safety, environmental, and infection-control procedures and guidelines, collect and dispose of waste properly, and use required personal protective equipment.
Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate integrity and honesty.
Provide direct and constant supervision to unlicensed staff as necessary, train staff in routine and complex procedures, and support training programs where applicable.
Maintain professional growth through continuing education that meets California state licensure requirements.
Answer phones, transfer calls, or take accurate messages.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical and supplemental health, dental, and vision benefits for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost health assessment program.
Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one 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, with buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.
Potential annual performance bonus compensation.
$5,000 sign-on bonus for external candidates only.