Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Hematopathology Lab

University of Washington • Seattle, WA

11d • Onsite

About The Position

UW Medicine’s Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology is hiring a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1 to join the Hematopathology Team at Fred Hutch Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington. The Hematopathology group performs clinical flow cytometry and hematopathology diagnostics to identify hematologic malignancies and immune disorders. The role supports patient care through high-complexity flow cytometric testing for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring of patients with hematopoietic disorders, using laboratory technology and automation and collaborating with pathologists and researchers across UW Medicine and Fred Hutch Cancer Center.

The position is 100% FTE, Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with rotating weekends and holidays. It is a regular first-shift position.

The MLS Trainee qualification requires an accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or equivalent education/experience, and eligibility to take the ASCP Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination within 18 months of hire. Failure to obtain certification within that period may result in a recommendation for termination. The MLS 1 qualification requires an accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or equivalent education/experience, current MLS certification from ASCP or an equivalent certifying organization (or certification with a specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division), and one year of experience as an MLS Trainee. Up to one year of on-the-job clinical testing experience through a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward that experience requirement. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except where legal requirements apply.

The role is part of UW Medicine, an academic health system focused on advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding care, and educating health professionals. The University of Washington describes its workplace commitment as inclusive, respectful, and welcoming.

Requirements

• For the MLS Trainee level: accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or equivalent education/experience.
• For the MLS Trainee level: eligibility to take the ASCP Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination within 18 months from date of hire; failure to attain certification within that period may result in a recommendation for termination.
• For the MLS 1 level: accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or equivalent education/experience.
• For the MLS 1 level: current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with ASCP or an equivalent certifying organization, or certification with a specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division.
• For the MLS 1 level: one year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee; up to one year of on-the-job clinical testing experience in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward this requirement.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except where legal requirements such as licensure, certification, or registration apply.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of flow cytometry principles.
• Experience with BD FACS Lyric cytometers.
• Knowledge of monoclonal antibodies.
• Knowledge of hematopoietic malignancies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Responsibilities

• Prepare peripheral blood, bone marrow, tissue (fresh, frozen, or paraffin-embedded), cellular body fluids, sorted cells, and cell line samples according to established procedures.
• Review and analyze flow cytometry data and generate preliminary reports.
• Review test results and quality control data for acceptability according to established procedures.
• Operate and troubleshoot laboratory instruments, including performing calibrations and preventative maintenance.
• Organize and prioritize workload efficiently.
• Enter test results in the EHR/LIS.
• Assist with instruction and training of new employees, postdoctoral fellows, residents, and students.
• Follow established test performance and troubleshooting procedures and assist in developing new procedures as needed.
• Answer phone calls and address questions from customers or other laboratory personnel.
• Develop and maintain the technical knowledge needed to work independently in all aspects of flow cytometry testing.
• Understand and apply working knowledge of the laboratory information system and other computer systems.
• Perform laboratory work accurately.
• Perform other duties as required.

Benefits

• Vacation and sick time accrue monthly.
• 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 U-PASS public transit pass covering multiple forms of regional public transportation.
• Healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
• Fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through Whole U.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level