Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Sutter Health•Oakland, CA

23d•$70 - $98

About The Position

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist performs procedures in assigned laboratory areas to deliver accurate results in a timely manner. The role maintains competence in pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic procedures on biological specimens to support the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and prevention of disease. Duties may include phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control and assurance, and waived, moderate, or high complexity testing under CLIA. Assignments and scope of duties are consistent with the type of CLS license. If assigned to the Transfusion Service, the scientist performs applicable testing, manages blood inventory, prepares blood products, and issues them for transfusion. The role follows applicable regulations, standards, policies, and procedures to protect patient privacy and maintain safe, reliable testing. This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position on the day shift, Monday through Friday, with 8-hour shifts and 40 hours per week. No weekend work is required. The posted pay range is $69.88 to $97.82 per hour; compensation may vary by location and other factors. Eligible positions include a comprehensive benefits package.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree before the start date; equivalent experience may be accepted in lieu of the required degree or diploma.
One applicable license based on the department supported: Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist License (CLSPCG), Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist License (CGMBSL), Clinical Hematologist Scientist License (CHSL), Clinical Histocompatibility Scientist License (CHSL), Clinical Immunohematologist Scientist License (CISL), Clinical Microbiologist Scientist License (CMS), Clinical Toxicologist Scientist License (CTSL), Clinical Reproductive Biologist Scientist License (CRBSL), or Clinical Lab Scientist Generalist (CLS).
Demonstrated knowledge and technical competence in routine specimen collection, preparation, testing applications, laboratory operations, and quality assurance in one or more assigned clinical specialty areas.
Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks, with sound judgment and problem-solving relevant to assigned duties.
Ability to interact compassionately and effectively with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs, and behaviors.
Ability to manage workflow in response to volume fluctuations, unexpected situations or equipment/information-system failures, shift hand-offs, STAT orders, specimen integrity issues, and review of pending logs and priorities.
Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence.
Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures for patient privacy and safety.
Ability to organize and prioritize duties and tasks for completion within expected timeframes.

Responsibilities

Complete test order entry, collect specimens, and perform specimen processing and handling.
Analyze biological specimens using automated and manual methods for waived, moderate, or high complexity testing under CLIA.
Perform post-analytic procedures, including interpreting, releasing, and reporting results; amending or correcting results; responding to inquiries; and storing and retrieving specimens.
Recognize when patient results require additional action before reporting, such as delta checks and critical values, and take appropriate action.
Calibrate and adjust laboratory equipment according to requirements and manufacturer guidelines; perform preventive maintenance and minor adjustments or repairs as applicable.
Maintain a safe and orderly work area; manage inventory; perform quality control and proficiency testing; maintain records and confidentiality; and contribute to continual process improvement.
Recognize when test systems are not functioning within control and take appropriate action.
Maintain current operational information and job knowledge, use critical thinking to make sound decisions and solve problems within the role's scope, and escalate issues as appropriate.
Complete assigned competency assessment activities.
Respond to and resolve internal and external customer inquiries, complaints, and problems, or escalate them appropriately.
If assigned to the Transfusion Service, manage blood product inventory and maintain adequate working and safety stock.
If assigned to the Transfusion Service, perform pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic procedures for moderate and high complexity testing.
If assigned to the Transfusion Service, prepare and issue blood products for transfusion.
Comply with applicable laws, regulations, codes, accreditation standards, policies, processes, and procedures.