Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)

Hartford Healthcare•Manchester, CT

About The Position

The Medical Laboratory Scientist performs applied techniques for chemical, microscopic, immunologic, and/or microbiological testing to produce data used in diagnosing and treating disease. The role requires multitasking across laboratory departments, including Blood Bank, Hematology, Chemistry, and limited Serology and Microbiology. The scientist receives or obtains specimens, records test results, uses judgment to interpret and apply guidelines to specific work situations, performs training activities and special projects, and takes responsibility for ordering and assigning testing for CAP surveys. The position involves operating and troubleshooting laboratory instruments, maintaining competency across assigned laboratory sections, processing specimens within turnaround-time standards, assessing results before release, communicating results to healthcare providers, and supporting quality control, quality assurance, proficiency testing, training, and accreditation compliance. Specimen collection by various phlebotomy methods for patients of all age groups is also required. Reliable transportation is needed because travel between multiple work sites is required. Hartford HealthCare describes the role as bonus eligible, with an $8K bonus. The organization offers career development and growth opportunities and a competitive benefits program intended to support work/life balance.

Requirements

A Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, or an associate degree with proof of a license accepted/accredited by the states of New York, Florida, or California.
ASCP certification or eligibility as a Medical Technologist, or ASCP Categorical Certification specific to the laboratory section employed in (H, C, M, BB).
Provide an education transcript before the start of employment.
Knowledge of laboratory automation and information systems.
Reliable transportation to travel between multiple work sites; travel is required to perform essential duties.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of clinical laboratory experience is preferred.
Phlebotomy experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Operate laboratory instruments efficiently and demonstrate knowledge of basic instrument theory and component functions.
Multitask across Laboratory departments, including Blood Bank, Hematology, Chemistry, and limited Microbiology and Serology.
Maintain competency in Blood Bank.
Maintain competency in Hematology and Coagulation.
Maintain competency in Chemistry.
Perform limited Microbiology and Serology work, including gram staining and stat Serology.
Meet Laboratory turnaround-time standards and process specimens efficiently to produce results within established timelines.
Troubleshoot instruments according to instrument-specific manuals and assess problems as they arise.
Perform instrument or pipette calibration functions.
Assist in coordinating proficiency testing results and perform section backup procedures according to instrument-specific requirements.
Follow Quality Control policies and procedures, take action when outliers occur, and assist with monitoring Quality Control over time.
Assess test results for accuracy and use critical thinking and sound judgment before releasing results.
Promptly call and document results to ensure they are communicated to the appropriate healthcare provider.
Take inventory and order supplies as needed.
Perform temperature and eyewash checks and review records as needed.
Assist in coordinating training for employees in the employee’s area of expertise.
Collect specimens from patients of all age groups using various phlebotomy methods and follow designated collection procedures and specimen requirements.
Assist in working toward full compliance with accreditation standards and coordinate Quality Assurance activities.
Order and assign testing for CAP surveys.
Receive or obtain specimens for laboratory analysis and record laboratory test results.
Perform training activities and special projects.