CLS Lead chemistry

LCMC Health•Metairie, LA

About The Position

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist Lead performs clinical laboratory testing of blood and body fluid constituents as requested by physicians, evaluates and reports data used in diagnosis and treatment, serves as an authority on laboratory test procedures, and assists with staff training and competency maintenance. The role oversees daily laboratory or section operations, supports quality and performance improvement, and provides technical guidance to laboratory staff. The position ensures specimen quality and integrity from accessioning through storage and testing; operates laboratory systems and methodologies; performs quality checks, calibrations, and maintenance; and evaluates results before reporting them to caregivers. It also manages supplies and inventory, follows laboratory procedures and regulatory standards, and works with laboratory leadership to monitor trends and implement corrective actions. The role is based at East Jefferson General Hospital within LCMC Health. The stated work shift is days.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in a general clinical laboratory.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, or equivalent.
Must be licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners as a CLS.

Responsibilities

Ensure specimens are appropriate, correctly labeled, accessioned, processed, transported, and stored under appropriate conditions; process histology samples when assigned to the histology section.
Operate laboratory systems and methodologies to produce patient, quality-control, and proficiency-testing data.
Perform daily bench quality-assurance checks and quality checks, including reagent calibrations and standardizations.
Safeguard sample identification and accurately enter patient demographics in accordance with SOPP.
Evaluate data before releasing results, considering sample integrity, system operation, and patient history.
Use computer systems and quality-assurance monitors, including delta checks and previous results, to evaluate data, document actions, and control workflow.
Perform scheduled weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual maintenance; review QC statistics and troubleshoot system problems.
Use supplies, tools, and equipment efficiently; manage supply inventory and properly receive and store supplies.
Follow site-specific SOPPs, manuals, instructions, and applicable regulatory agency guidelines.
Oversee daily department or section operations and serve as a point of contact for medical staff, nursing, regulatory and compliance agencies, and HIS/LIS departments.
Provide technical guidance to technicians and technologists, monitor the effectiveness of actions using QA monitors, and report results to staff and management.
Maintain current procedures, evaluate and implement new procedures, train staff, and help maintain staff competencies.
Work with laboratory leadership on quality and performance improvement programs, including monitoring and tracking trends and implementing corrective actions.