Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Renton Central Lab: Microbiology

University of Washington • San Diego, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA is seeking a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Trainee/1 for the Microbiology Team at the Renton Central Lab. This role is crucial to laboratory operations, involving training across all benches and responsibility for accurate reading, interpretation, and reporting of laboratory test results. The MLS Trainee/1 will also play a key role in onboarding and training new employees to ensure consistent quality standards. The Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology is a regional resource for clinical laboratory services, recognized for excellence in clinical training, research, and community service, serving labs and medical facilities nationally and internationally. UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system with a top-rated medical school and research center, dedicated to improving public health through advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding care, and preparing future health professionals. Employees collaborate to perform high-quality work with integrity and compassion in a respectful and welcoming environment.

Requirements

• Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience (for MLS Trainee).
• 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).
• Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience (for MLS 1).
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Perform manual, semi-automated, and automated patient and proficiency testing without errors by following SOPs as identified by current policies and procedures in the areas trained.
• Report critical values, STAT results, reportable/notifiable conditions, courtesy notifications, and routine results according to established protocols.
• Ensure turnaround times are consistent with guidelines and documentation is complete.
• Utilize information systems in addition to the LIS as needed.
• Perform and document routine quality control and preventative maintenance according to established protocols.
• Exercise knowledge, judgment, and decision-making skills needed to recognize, troubleshoot, correct, and document problems associated with patient testing, quality control, and preventative maintenance.
• Assist in instruction and training of employees, post-doctoral fellows, residents, medical students, medical technology students, etc.
• Provide evaluation feedback in a timely manner.
• Actively participate in continuing education activities, e.g., Plate Rounds, CAP online education, reading job-related journal articles, etc.
• Assist in the development and evaluation of new procedures/processes and assess the relevance and accuracy of current procedures/processes.
• Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care or other services based on physical, psychosocial, educational, safety, and related criteria appropriate to the age of the patient.
• Performs related duties as required.

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.
• Outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

What This Job Offers

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