Medical Laboratory Scientist

Mercyhealth Wisconsin and Illinois•Freeport, IL

5d•$29 - $44

About The Position

The Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) performs and analyzes complex laboratory tests across specialties including hematology, chemistry, urinalysis, blood bank, and microbiology, ensuring accurate and timely patient results. The role also includes quality control, troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation, maintaining regulatory standards, supporting process improvements, and serving as a resource and mentor for students and laboratory partners. This is a full-time position with a variable shift as needed. Some independent judgment is required, though alternatives are limited by standard practices or procedures. The role has no supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology, or an associate degree in Medical Technology and MLT certification.
Must be qualified to perform high-complexity testing according to CLIA 493.1489, Testing personnel qualifications.
MT/MLS Generalist Certification or specialty certification in Blood Bank, Chemistry, Hematology, or Microbiology is required within 12 months of hire, or MLT Certification and five years of experience.

Responsibilities

Use the Information System to receive patients, order and collect samples, result tests, answer questions from nurses and physicians, document quality control activities, and produce reports required for job tasks.
Confirm patient sample identification, evaluate specimen quality, document quality concerns and their potential impact on test values, and initiate recollection when indicated.
Perform waived, moderate, and high complexity laboratory tests in hematology, urinalysis, chemistry, and blood bank or microbiology using automated and manual methods in accordance with policies and procedures.
Analyze test results for validity and accuracy before release; recognize testing problems, troubleshoot suspect results, and implement corrective action when inaccurate or inappropriate findings, results, or reports are identified.
Perform high-complexity tests such as bone marrow testing and sperm morphology.
Meet designated turnaround times and appropriately report and document critical results.
Perform quality control and proficiency testing procedures and interpret and troubleshoot quality control results.
Perform preventative maintenance, advanced troubleshooting, and calibration of laboratory instrumentation.
Participate in method and instrument evaluation and implementation.
Investigate and resolve technical issues.
Participate on interdepartmental committees or teams.
Teach students and train new partners.
Complete and sign off on competency checklists for technicians.
Develop or update procedures as requested.
Serve as a resource to inexperienced partners.
Perform additional tasks such as scheduling and antibiograms.
Maintain competency in current procedures and gain competency for new methods.