Medical Laboratory Scientist II - Microbiology

Quest Diagnostics•Chantilly, VA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Medical Laboratory Scientist II - Microbiology performs test procedures of moderate/high complexity requiring independent judgment and responsibility in specialties for which they are qualified by education, training, and experience. This role requires proficiency in all areas of testing and troubleshooting applicable instruments/procedures within the department. The position provides support in quality control, complex problem troubleshooting, customer support, instrument and equipment maintenance, staff training, process improvement, and special projects. The Medical Laboratory Scientist II adheres to analytical schedules to maintain turnaround times, ensures proper reagent/test kit management, and enters test results into the Laboratory Information System. They also maintain laboratory areas and equipment, complete training and competency checklists, and may assist with training other personnel. Adherence to CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, and laboratory safety requirements, including the use of personal protective equipment, engineering controls, and work practice controls, is mandatory. The role may involve answering client questions, participating in regulatory inspections, and assuming lead responsibilities in the absence of a supervisor.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science with certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist from the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP), or the American Medical Technologists (AMT) dated after 1/1/2014, or American Association of Bio analysts (AAB).
BSMT, Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, from accredited college or university in the US.
BS or BA degree with a major in Microbiology or Bacteriology from accredited college or university in the US, plus 1 year training and/or experience testing in a clinical setting. Must include a course in Medical/Pathogenic Microbiology or Bacteriology.
BS or BA degree in a biological science from accredited college or university in the US with 25 semester hours inclusive but not limited to the courses below, plus 1 year training and/or experience testing in a clinical setting. Must have courses: General Biology, General or Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology.
Foreign educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from National Association Credential Evaluation Services, Inc. (NACES) or Association of International Credential evaluators, Inc. (AICE).
CAP, California, and New York specific requirements may apply depending on BU's state testing certifications.
1 year laboratory experience and/or training (high complexity testing) in the specialties/sub-specialties in which testing will be performed.
Ability to stand and work at the bench for long periods of time.
Ability to lift and carry objects: Objects 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally; objects 36 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted or carried and objects over 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
Frequent walking and/or standing.
May be required to use a wide variety of manual and automated pipettes and laboratory instruments and apparatuses all of which demand significant manual dexterity.
Required to handle biological samples and potentially hazardous chemicals.
Theoretical and operational job knowledge in designated specialty required.
Knowledge of organizational/departmental policies and procedures.
Proven problem-solving skills.
Must be detail-oriented, can work independently, establish work priorities and to handle several tasks simultaneously for maximum department efficiency.
Interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and clients.
Communication skills necessary to handle telephone inquiries from clients.
Ability to deal with client information in a confidential manner.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.
Ability to plan, organize and complete all work assignments even under stressful conditions.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology
ASCP Certification
Clinical Laboratory Scientist (e.g. California) preferred

Responsibilities

Perform test procedures of moderate/high complexity requiring the exercise of independent judgement and responsibility.
Demonstrate proficiency in all areas of testing and proficiently troubleshoot all applicable instruments/procedures in the department.
Provide support to the department in quality control, troubleshooting complex problems, customer support, instrument and equipment maintenance, staff training, process improvement, and completion of special projects.
Perform and report on assigned analytical tests in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), ensuring quality control requirements are met.
Actively support and comply with laboratory policies and procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analysis, reporting, and maintaining records of patient test results.
Adhere to analytical schedules to maintain turnaround time of results, including STATS or critical results.
Ensure reagents/test kits have received dates, expiration dates, and if applicable, opened dates.
Perform and document QC analysis to ensure accuracy of clinical data and proper instrument function.
Make quality control decisions regarding the disposition of an assay or test.
Inform supervisory personnel of all problems associated with the proper performance of test procedures.
Report any actual or potential deviation from standard or accepted testing procedures and cooperate fully with any investigation.
Enter test results into the Laboratory Information System for standardized report generation.
Qualified to release California results.
Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional, and sanitary condition.
Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate.
May assist supervisor with training of other laboratory personnel.
Adhere to all established CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, and laboratory safety requirements.
Use personal protective equipment, engineering controls, and/or work practice controls as directed by management.
Answer questions from clients or other lab personnel, if applicable.
Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections, if needed.
May be required, in the absence of a Supervisor, to assume lead responsibilities if qualified and delegated.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
Best-in-class well-being programs
Annual, no-cost health assessment program
Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program
Vacation and Health/Flex Time
6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
FinFit financial coaching and services
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
Employee stock purchase plan
Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
Flexible Spending Accounts
Annual incentive plans
Matching gifts program
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
Career advancement opportunities