Medical Laboratory Scientist II

Quest Diagnostics•Wallingford, CT

About The Position

Perform moderate- and high-complexity laboratory testing with independent judgment and responsibility in specialties supported by the employee’s education, training, and experience. The role requires proficiency in departmental testing and troubleshooting applicable instruments and procedures. It also supports quality control, complex problem-solving, customer service, equipment maintenance, staff training, process improvement, and special projects. The position is in the Stat Lab (Generalist) department in Wallingford, Connecticut, with a Monday-to-Friday schedule from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The pay range is $35.89–$39.36 per hour. Salary offers consider relevant skills, training, experience, education, certifications, and market and organizational factors. Successful candidates may be eligible for annual performance bonus compensation. The role involves performing and reporting analytical tests under applicable standard operating procedures, maintaining quality-control standards and patient-result records, meeting turnaround times, and entering results into the Laboratory Information System. The employee maintains reagents, laboratory equipment, and work areas; completes training and competency requirements; follows applicable regulatory and safety requirements; and may assist with staff training or assume delegated lead responsibilities when a supervisor is absent and the employee is qualified.

Requirements

At least one year of full-time experience or training in high-complexity testing in a clinical laboratory setting.
Comprehensive theoretical and operational knowledge in the designated specialty and knowledge of organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
Degree or qualification meeting one of the stated pathways: a BS/BA in Medical Technology, Chemistry, or Biology; an associate degree in Laboratory Science or Medical Technology; or prior qualification as a Technologist under 42 CFR 493.1433, published March 14, 1990.
Foreign-educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF (International Education Research Foundation); U.S.-educated candidates must provide a detailed original transcript.
Other state-specific requirements may apply depending on the business unit’s state testing certifications; candidates should check with local HR or QA departments.
Proven leadership and problem-solving skills.
Detail-oriented, able to work independently, establish priorities, and handle several tasks simultaneously.
Interpersonal skills to deal courteously and effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and clients.
Communication skills to handle telephone inquiries from clients.
Ability to handle client information confidentially.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.
Ability to stand and work at a laboratory bench for extended periods; frequent walking and/or standing.
Manual dexterity to use a wide variety of manual and automated pipettes, laboratory instruments, and apparatuses.
Ability to lift and carry objects weighing 1–10 pounds frequently and 11–25 pounds occasionally; objects weighing 36–50 pounds are seldom lifted or carried, and objects over 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.

Nice To Haves

At least three years of clinical experience, with the most recent year in the present department.
Associate degree in Laboratory Science or Medical Technology.
Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Biology, or Chemistry.
ASCP Certification.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate proficiency in all areas of testing and troubleshoot applicable instruments and procedures.
Support departmental quality control, complex troubleshooting, customer support, instrument and equipment maintenance, staff training, process improvement, and assigned special projects.
Perform and report assigned analytical tests according to applicable Standard Operating Procedures and quality-control requirements.
Follow laboratory policies and procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analysis, reporting, and maintaining patient test-result records.
Meet analytical schedules and turnaround times, including STAT and critical results to clients.
Ensure reagents and test kits are labeled with received, expiration, and, when applicable, opened dates.
Perform and document quality-control analyses and make decisions about assay or test disposition.
Inform supervisory personnel of problems with test procedures, report actual or potential deviations, and cooperate with investigations.
Enter test results into the Laboratory Information System for standardized reports for physician review and interpretation.
Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional, and sanitary condition.
Complete applicable training and competency checklists and may assist with training other laboratory personnel.
Comply with CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, laboratory safety requirements, and directed use of personal protective equipment and controls.
Answer questions from clients or other laboratory personnel, as applicable.
Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections, if needed.
May assume qualified and delegated lead responsibilities in the absence of a supervisor.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical, supplemental health, dental, and vision benefits for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost health assessment program.
Blueprint for Wellness® health program.
healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one “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, with a buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.
Potential eligibility for annual performance bonus compensation.