Immunohematology Reference Lab CLS II

San Diego Blood Bank • San Diego, CA

2d

About The Position

Under the direction of department leadership, the Immunohematology Reference Laboratory Clinical Laboratory Scientist II performs IRL processes in accordance with cGMP-compliant policies and San Diego Blood Bank Standard Operating Procedures. This highly regulated laboratory requires successful completion of an initial training program and recurring competency assessments. The role supports laboratory operations, quality, safety, customer service, staff training, and process development, and participates in the IRL on-call rotation.

The CLS II performs advanced immunohematology testing on donor and referred patient samples, including red cell blood grouping and antibody identification, transfusion suitability determinations, compatibility testing, platelet crossmatching, antigen typing, and specialized antibody investigations. The role also performs DNA extractions and Next Generation Sequencing, provides technical consultation and reports to customers, investigates quality incidents, supports validations and controlled document revisions, and may cross-train in the Quality Control Laboratory.

The position requires a bachelor's degree, applicable laboratory certifications or equivalent experience, and more than three years of laboratory experience. Work takes place in a normal laboratory environment with biohazard precautions and possible exposure to blood or bodily fluids and hazardous chemicals. The role may require working or attending meetings outside routinely scheduled hours.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• MLS/MT(ASCP)CM or equivalent experience.
• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license.
• California Clinical Immunohematologist Scientist (CIS) license.
• Greater than three years of laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of AABB Standards, FDA, CLIA, and other regulations applicable to blood banking.
• Moderate to advanced understanding of laboratory technical aspects, blood banking concepts, molecular methods, hematology, and blood group antigens and antibodies.
• Ability to read and interpret SOPs, safety rules, and equipment operating and maintenance instructions.
• Ability to work independently and with a team, including with limited direct supervision.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently to support productive workflow.
• Ability to apply judgment to written or oral instructions.
• Above-average attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Clear and effective written and oral communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills to establish and maintain professional relationships.
• Decision-making skills, organization, and good time management.
• Self-motivation, integrity, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to perform under pressure and in stressful situations.
• Team orientation and teaching and training abilities.
• Ability to stand or sit for long hours and work on a computer 4–8 hours a day.
• Ability to communicate clearly.
• May be required to lift up to 40 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Perform assigned duties in compliance with internal SOPs and external regulations, including applicable GMP requirements.
• Provide laboratory guidance and expertise to meet SDBB customer needs in accordance with accepted standards and regulations.
• Support SDBB safety, GMP, and Quality Plan requirements and adhere to the Compliance Program.
• Assist with training new personnel and other staff, including competency activities when applicable.
• Assist with care, maintenance, and quality control of equipment and supplies.
• Maintain required department records, reports, and statistical data.
• Assist in developing laboratory processes and procedures and perform validations and new process development.
• Assist with laboratory quality and variance programs; investigate and review non-conformances through quality incident reporting.
• Participate in department meetings and educational programs.
• Participate in the IRL on-call rotation.
• Perform red cell blood grouping and antibody identification on donor and referred patient samples.
• Determine donor-unit suitability for transfusion when ABO or Rh groups are discrepant or unexpected red cell antibodies are present.
• Perform pre-transfusion compatibility testing as needed and platelet crossmatching.
• Perform adsorptions, elutions, red cell enzyme treatment, immunoglobulin removal, inhibition/neutralization testing, and titrations as needed.
• Identify antibodies to high- and low-prevalence antigens and cold-reactive antibodies; perform donor and patient red cell antigen typing.
• Use reducing agents as needed.
• Provide verbal and written reports, technical assistance, and consultation to customers.
• Perform DNA extractions and Next Generation Sequencing.
• Perform supervisory reviews and tasks as needed.
• Write and revise controlled documents.
• May cross-train in the Quality Control Laboratory.
• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Benefits

• Employees working 30 or more hours per week are eligible for employer-sponsored medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Earn up to 120 hours of paid vacation in the first year.
• Seven paid holidays and one personal holiday annually.
• 40 hours of paid sick time annually.
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 3% employer match starting on the first day.
• Employee Assistance Program, free for employees and their families.
• Service awards and recognition.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior