Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Division of Infectious Disease Diagnostics (DIDD)

University of Washington • Seattle, WA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Washington Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology is hiring a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1 for the Division of Infectious Disease Diagnostics (DIDD) at the Renton Central Lab in Seattle, Washington. The role supports clinical virology diagnostic testing for human pathogens, including herpes group, HIV, hepatitis, respiratory, and enteric viruses. Laboratory results inform clinical decisions and may influence treatment in real time. The work involves hands-on use of instruments, molecular diagnostics, automation, and evolving laboratory methods, as well as troubleshooting assays and interpreting complex results.

This is a regular, 100% FTE evening-shift position scheduled Tuesday through Saturday, with rotating holidays. The role may be filled at the MLS Trainee or MLS 1 level, depending on the candidate’s qualifications. The DIDD is one of nine divisions in the Department of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Washington. The department provides clinical laboratory services supporting patient care, research, and education.

Requirements

• For the MLS Trainee level: an accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science, or equivalent education/experience.
• For the MLS Trainee level: eligibility to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months of hire. Failure to obtain certification within 18 months may result in a recommendation for termination.
• For the MLS 1 level: an 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 a license, certification, or registration, apply.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel, laboratory information systems, discipline-specific middleware, and institution-based computer systems.
• Maintain ASCP or other certification in accordance with applicable guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Perform clinical virology diagnostic laboratory tests; record, evaluate, and interpret results; and contact appropriate personnel regarding unusual or critical findings.
• Assist in developing and following procedures and troubleshooting procedures and problems, drawing on a comprehensive understanding of laboratory testing and medical laboratory science.
• Calibrate, operate, troubleshoot, and perform preventive maintenance on laboratory instruments and related equipment.
• Ensure quality control requirements are met to validate test results, record data, maintain a continual quality assurance program, and use the electronic quality control system.
• Use computer systems and programs, including Microsoft Word and Excel, laboratory information systems, discipline-specific middleware, and institution-based systems for test result entry and data acquisition.
• Assist in instructing and training new employees, post-doctoral fellows, residents, and students.
• Serve as a resource to other laboratory personnel, including Clinical Laboratory Technicians and Specimen Processing Technicians.
• Assist in the design, development, and evaluation of new procedures and processes.
• Prepare reagents, standards, and control samples and verify their quality.
• Keep ASCP or other certification up to date in accordance with national organization guidelines.
• Perform related duties as required.

Benefits

• Relocation incentive for eligible new employees.
• Vacation and sick time that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to six credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or participating colleges and universities.
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) covering multiple forms of regional public transportation.
• Healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
• Fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes through Whole U.

What This Job Offers

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