Medical Laboratory Scientist 1, Lab Med - Lab Med Develop - S S (12)

University of Washington • Renton, WA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA is seeking a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) 1 for the Molecular Microbiology Team at the University of Washington Medical Center – Montlake. The Molecular Microbiology Lab specializes in broad-range detection of bacteria, AFB, and fungi, serving UW Medicine patients and receiving specimens nationally. The team consists of MLSs and Clinical Laboratory Technicians (CLTs) who collaborate to deliver timely test results and stay current with molecular technology by launching new tests and improving existing ones. The MLS 1 is responsible for performing laboratory tests, interpreting results, and reporting them in the laboratory information system, playing a crucial role in patient care. This position involves supporting other MLSs, faculty, and students, and requires courteous and clear communication with hospital and laboratory staff to resolve issues. The MLS 1 is also expected to maintain a positive attitude towards themselves, others, and the workplace.

Requirements

• Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience
• Eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months from date of hire (for MLS Trainee)
• Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division (for MLS 1)
• One (1) year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee (for MLS 1)
• Up to one (1) year of on-the-job experience performing clinical testing in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward the experience requirement

Nice To Haves

• Experience in molecular biology lab work

Responsibilities

• Performs various PCR tests for the identification of bacteria, yeast and parasite in the Molecular Diagnostic Division per laboratory protocols.
• Performs DNA extraction by manual methods and sets up PCR reactions, real-time PCR reactions and DNA sequencing reactions.
• Understands and operates a variety of molecular laboratory equipment (Qiacube and EZ2 DNA extractor, Qiagility liquid handler, ZAG DNA analyzer, 3730xl DNA sequencer, Illumina MiSeq DNA sequencer, Biomek Nxp, and NGS Star), and performs basic maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Exhibits a working knowledge of the laboratory information system software and teaches it to others.
• Uses Molecular database (mmdb) to enter data, print worksheets, analyze DNA sequences and prepare case reports.
• Uses DNA analyzing software such as BLAST, ClustalW.
• Understands quality control requirements and follows policies to validate results.
• Works independently to manage average workloads and knows when to request assistance in case of heavier workloads.
• Performs work accurately and precisely and recognizes, corrects and documents errors when they occur.
• Interacts with health care providers in a professional manner.
• Knows what results are critical or reportable and follows the policies and procedures for reporting them to appropriate medical staff, epidemiology or Public Health Laboratory.
• Assists with the evaluation of new tests/equipment and research projects.
• Instructs new employees, medical laboratory students, medical students, residents and fellows in routine procedures and is patient and tolerant with them.
• Continues education and maintain certification by attending Lab Medicine & Pathology seminars, in services, staff meetings and/or by reading scientific journals and participating in CAP proficiency surveys.
• Performs other tasks in the laboratory as assigned.

Benefits

• Relocation incentive for eligible new employees
• Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region
• Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options
• Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees