Medical Laboratory Scientist - Casual

Grande Ronde Hospital•La Grande, OR

49d•Onsite

About The Position

The Medical Laboratory Scientist I (MLS I) is responsible for performing clinical laboratory testing and procedures under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, Laboratory Medical Director, and MLS Section Lead. This role conducts analyses in areas including microbiology, chemistry, hematology, serology, immunology, immunohematology (blood bank), hemostasis, parasitology, virology, urinalysis, and phlebotomy. The MLS I participates in quality assurance, quality improvement, and cost management initiatives, contributes to laboratory operations, and may perform special projects, section leadership tasks, or serve on hospital committees to support optimal patient care and efficient laboratory function.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED equivalent required
Current American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) certificate required within three (3) months of hire.
Associate of Science (AS) or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in medical technology, a biological science, or a chemical science from an accredited institution required.
Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), Medical Technologist (MT), or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification through the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or equivalent certification within two (2) years from the date of hire.
At least two (2) years prior experience in a hospital, clinical, or high-volume laboratory setting required.
Knowledge of infection control, bloodborne pathogens, and standard precautions.
Knowledge of specimen handling, processing, and transport requirements.
Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology to accurately perform tests and communicate findings.
Ability to accurately identify patients, label specimens, and follow collection protocols.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Ability to accurately analyze test results, interpret microscopic findings, troubleshoot technical issues, and apply critical thinking to resolve laboratory problems.
Ability to provide precise documentation, specimen labeling, and workflow prioritization to maintain efficiency and accuracy in a high-volume laboratory environment.
Skilled in basic computer functions for entering patient and specimen information into laboratory information systems.
Skilled in operating, calibrating, and maintaining laboratory instruments, performing specimen collection, and conducting microscopic examinations.
Skilled in customer service, demonstrating courtesy, professionalism, and responsiveness to enhance the overall experience for patients, staff, and visitors.

Nice To Haves

Graduate of a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program with internship from an accredited institution preferred.
At least two (2) years of experience as an MLS or MLT preferred.

Responsibilities

Performs clinical laboratory testing in areas including chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology, serology, immunohematology (blood bank), hemostasis, urinalysis, virology, and parasitology for patients of all age groups.
Collects, prepares, and processes patient specimens (blood, urine, tissue, and other bodily fluids) following established protocols.
Operates, calibrates, troubleshoots, and maintains laboratory instruments and equipment to ensure accurate and reliable testing.
Documents and verifies laboratory test results in laboratory information systems (LIS) and hospital records in compliance with policies and regulatory standards.
Participates in quality assurance, performance improvement, regulatory compliance and accreditation activities, contributing to departmental audits, evaluations, and best practice initiatives to maintain accuracy, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
Adheres to laboratory safety, infection control, and bloodborne pathogen protocols while handling biohazardous materials.
Assists in laboratory workflow management by supporting section leads, prioritizing testing, and coordinating schedules to ensure timely and efficient patient care.
Collaborates with healthcare providers to interpret test results and provide accurate, timely information for patient management.
Participates in cost management, resource utilization, and operational efficiency initiatives, including inventory control.
Provides training, guidance, and mentorship to new staff, students, or other laboratory personnel.
Participates in special projects, quality improvement initiatives, hospital committees, and continuing education to maintain professional knowledge and improve laboratory operations.
May work a flexible schedule or take call, including weekends and holidays, with shifts assigned equitably to meet patient care needs.