Laboratory Technologist

Independence Health System Careers•Latrobe, PA

About The Position

The Laboratory Technologist uses clinical laboratory science knowledge, analytical skills, and judgment to provide accurate, timely results. The role performs high-complexity testing using laboratory methods and instrumentation and works independently in multiple laboratory areas. Duties include specimen collection and processing, phlebotomy, test performance and result interpretation, quality management, instrument and method maintenance, and communication with healthcare providers. The technologist maintains knowledge of procedures in two or more laboratory sections and supports compliance with applicable regulatory requirements. The position may involve rotating shifts, standby, and on-call scheduling based on operational needs. Local travel between system locations may be expected. A $10,000 sign-on bonus is available to eligible candidates.

Requirements

Associate of Science degree or higher from an accredited institution in chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology; alternatively, equivalent laboratory training and experience meeting CLIA 88 requirements for individuals performing high-complexity testing.
Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory information systems.
Functional skills in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook.
Strong leadership and organizational skills, independent and critical-thinking ability, and sound judgment.
Knowledge of legal aspects and liability of nursing practice, as stated in the posting.
Ability to communicate complex and/or controversial topics and concepts to a wide and diverse audience.
Act 33 clearance with renewal.
Act 34 clearance with renewal.
Act 73 FBI clearance with renewal.
Ability to work a schedule based on operational need, which may include rotating shifts, standby, or on-call work.
Ability to travel locally between system locations if needed.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience within a clinical laboratory.
ASCP certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

Procure, prepare, and process specimens using approved techniques and procedures; perform phlebotomy according to established procedures and customer service expectations.
Receive specimens into the laboratory information system (LIS), verify orders and priorities, validate order and specimen appropriateness, and ensure required documentation is present.
Maintain specimen integrity and identity; investigate, resolve, and document tracking, integrity, rejection, and irretrievable specimen issues.
Research unusual reference test orders, arrange appropriate specimen collection, and communicate and document relevant information.
Package specimens for transport according to regulations and established protocols.
Prepare and maintain reagents and consumables, monitor supplies, and report unusual supply or utilization issues.
Perform preventative and corrective maintenance, anticipate equipment problems, and take preventative action to avoid delays in patient care.
Perform low-, moderate-, and high-complexity assays; evaluate and interpret results, determine appropriate instrument settings, and make adjustments as needed.
Perform assigned laboratory tests according to established protocols while considering accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, turnaround time, and cost management.
Assess testing methods and results for procedural validity and accuracy, including re-evaluating patient data when instrument or methodology malfunctions are suspected.
Perform and document quality control, maintenance, and variances; compose correlation studies and QC reports and maintain monthly logs.
Maintain in-depth knowledge of methods and procedures in two or more laboratory sections and correlate patient results with the clinical picture.
Investigate and resolve questionable test orders or results using disease state, diagnosis, patient history, specimen quality, and other clinical information.
Participate in quality management, including quality control and assurance, competency assessment, and appropriate utilization of laboratory services.
Participate in laboratory readiness for CAP, JCAHO, OSHA, and DOH compliance.
Use HIS and LIS functions to obtain patient and order information, accession and receive specimens, report results, monitor testing, and process supply or work orders.
Participate in initial and monthly validation of LIS and instrument interfaces.
Evaluate laboratory data for possible specimen recollection, follow-up or reflex testing; redirect testing to backup or secondary methods when appropriate and work to resolve primary testing issues.
Communicate with healthcare providers regarding test appropriateness, quality, accuracy, procedural requirements, and interpretation of laboratory results within the framework of medical technology.
Assist in evaluating and developing new methods and instruments; recommend and help implement workflow improvements.
Report and document critical values and read-back verifications according to policy.
Follow the laboratory and section-specific Environmental Control Plan; enter reflex testing codes into the LIS when appropriate and retain instrument printouts and specimens according to policy.
Perform other duties as assigned.