MLS Specialist - ECC Mont Belvieu

Houston Methodist•Baytown, TX

18h

About The Position

The Medical Laboratory Scientist Specialist performs routine and complex laboratory analyses at a subject matter expert level, using knowledge of laboratory techniques, principles, equipment, and their interrelationships. The role uses critical thinking and sound judgment to solve problems, ensures specimens are accessioned and processed promptly, and delivers quality results efficiently and cost-effectively. The specialist serves as a role model and preceptor for staff and leads quality control initiatives for the laboratory section. The specialist performs qualitative and quantitative testing using analyzers and manual methods, troubleshoots workflow and technical issues, and meets turnaround-time expectations. The role oversees quality practices, including test-system competency, investigation of discrepancies, review and documentation of monthly quality-control data, CAP accreditation checklist responses, validation planning and analysis, instrument maintenance and repair coordination, and policy review. The specialist also mentors team members and students, administers and grades staff competency assessments, supports laboratory and organizational initiatives, manages resources and inventory responsibly, and seeks opportunities to improve quality and service. This is a day-shift clinical position. Scrubs or business-professional attire are specified. On-call work may be required during emergencies, and travel within and outside the Houston metropolitan area may be required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
Three years of experience in a clinical laboratory as a Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist or comparable role. Houston Methodist employees may be considered with two years of experience, including at least one year as a Houston Methodist Medical Laboratory Scientist, and demonstrated progressive responsibilities.
One of the following certifications is required: Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Scientist, or categorical certification by the ASCP Board of Certification; Medical Technologist certification by AMT; or Clinical Laboratory Scientist certification by NCA.
For HLA work, one of the following is required: MT(ASCP) or MLS(ASCP) certification, or certification by the American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ABHI).
For Microbiology work, one of the following is required: MT(ASCP) or MLS(ASCP) certification, M(ASCP) certification, or a clinical microbiology registry from the American Society for Microbiology, RM(AAM).
Demonstrate the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, as assessed through ongoing skills and competency assessments and performance evaluations.
Have sufficient English speaking, reading, and writing proficiency to perform essential functions, especially those affecting patient or employee safety or security.
Communicate effectively with patients, physicians, family members, and coworkers using a customer-service focus and positive language.
Demonstrate strong interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills and support excellent customer service.
Adapt to multiple ongoing priorities, organize heavy workflow, and work with minimal supervision.
Show strong attention to detail and maintain accuracy.
Work independently and demonstrate above-average technical skills.
Use sound judgment and discretion to recognize problems, identify causes, and take corrective action.
Possess basic computer knowledge and operate hospital/laboratory information systems and office software to maintain patient and testing records and related documents.
Recognize changes that are critical to patient care.
Adjust work schedule to accommodate departmental or organizational needs.
Be available for on-call duties during emergencies; travel within and outside the Houston metropolitan area may be required.

Responsibilities

Perform qualitative and quantitative tests and examinations using analyzers and/or manual methods.
Set the pace for workload and troubleshoot laboratory-section workflow issues.
Meet turnaround-time expectations defined by management and assist others with additional tasks when possible.
Perform the six elements of competency for test systems used to generate patient test results in assigned areas.
Recognize, investigate, and resolve test discrepancies; take appropriate action on problems and notify management for follow-up.
Compile and review monthly quality-control data, identify variances, take action, and document findings.
Oversee section compliance by reviewing and responding to CAP Accreditation Checklists questions and findings, and complete online CAP Inspector Training.
Develop validation plans, lead implementation, and perform data analysis.
Coordinate instrument maintenance and repairs and independently resolve complex section problems and issues.
Assist with policy review and submission.
Orient, guide, and mentor team members and students.
Administer and grade staff competency assessments.
Collaborate with the patient-care team and communicate pertinent patient-care information and data.
Participate in laboratory and organization-wide initiatives.
Adjust work schedule to accommodate departmental and organizational needs and use the time-recording system appropriately.
Use resources efficiently and participate in inventory management.
Generate and communicate ideas to improve quality or service and pursue continued development.