Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)

The US Oncology Network•Austin, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Texas Oncology is seeking a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) to join their team at the Austin Midtown location. This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, with no weekend, call, or major holiday work. The role can be hired at a level 1, 2, or Sr, depending on the candidate's experience. Texas Oncology is a leading community oncology provider in the country, dedicated to making advanced cancer care accessible in communities. They utilize cutting-edge technology and research to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care, aiming for "More breakthroughs. More victories." in the fight against cancer. The company treats a significant portion of Texans diagnosed with cancer annually.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related health care field OR Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university with a major in biological science or chemistry with a combination of 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) in biology and chemistry, which may be obtained within, or in addition to, the baccalaureate degree.
Except for grandfathered situations, bachelor's degree in Medical Technology required.
Current state license if required.
Position is entry level and requires no experience (for Level 1), however lab experience is preferred.
4-year degree candidates are required to take Hematology and/or Chemistry exam after 1 year of completion of training.
Licensure and certification requirements depend on the state.
Minimum of three years of experience (for Level 2).
Five years of experience (for Level Sr).

Nice To Haves

AMT, ASCP or equivalent certification preferred.
Lab experience is preferred (for Level 1).
Experience with Flow cytometry preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform moderate and high complexity laboratory testing.
Accurately perform specimen analysis, instrument maintenance, and quality control procedures.
Initiate and follow quality assurance and safety policies and procedures.
Perform specimen collection and assist with patient flow as needed.
Train employees in laboratory procedures.
May act as primary operator for at least one laboratory instrument.
Act as a resource for laboratory science information.
May oversee daily laboratory activities in the absence of a supervisor.
Perform clinical tests used in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases.
Demonstrate clinical thinking and technical skills to assess result appropriateness and the need for retesting or equipment recalibration.
Perform and monitor specialized diagnostic laboratory tests.
Work within clearly defined standard operating procedures and/or scientific methods and adhere to quality guidelines.
Assist with performing phlebotomy and collecting appropriate specimens from patients as ordered.
Assure pre-authorization and complete appropriate consent forms (ABN) prior to collection of limited coverage tests.
Assist with special procedures as needed (i.e. bone marrows in the room).
Follow the laboratory’s procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting, and maintaining records of patient results.
Perform specimen analysis of all Chemistry, Hematology and Immunology specimens.
Maintain and operate all laboratory equipment. Perform daily, weekly and monthly instrument maintenance as indicated.
Adhere to the laboratory’s quality control policies and document all QC activities, instrument and procedural calibrations, and instrument maintenance. Record proper lot numbers of all controls, calibrators, and reagents.
Participate in proficiency testing by performing sample analysis and reporting results at least once a year.
Prepare peripheral blood smear and competently perform complete WBC differential on normal and abnormal smears.
Perform microscopic examination of urinary sediment.
Record results on appropriate worksheet and computer system and perform file maintenance.
Process specimens for send-out testing.
Follow the laboratory’s policies whenever test systems are not within the laboratory’s established acceptable levels of performance. Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either correct the problem or notify supervisor. Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory’s established performance specifications.
Maintain proper documentation as described by the quality assurance program including accessioning logs, test report logs, quality control logs, equipment records and checklists. Verify all critical results and document with accurate follow-up.
Maintain adequate inventory of supplies and ensure that all supplies are viable before using in patient testing. Prepare reagents, stains and other chemical solutions as needed. Restock the laboratory area as needed.
Send specimens to reference laboratories for any testing not performed in house.
Process incoming orders for lab testing including reference laboratory specimens.
Process in-house and in-coming results for charting.
Chart patient results in a timely manner as needed.
Properly identify and band patients for blood product transfusion. Process properly labeled specimens according to local bloodbank policy.
Participate in development of new instruments and procedures as needed.
Comply with quality assurance standards.
Adhere to all OSHA compliance laws and Universal Precaution procedures. Comply with applicable regulatory agency standards.
Properly dispose of hazardous materials.
Maintain a clean working environment.
Maintain confidentiality of all information related to patients and medical staff.
Perform CLIA classified Moderate and High complexity testing with minimal supervision.