Medical Laboratory Scientist - Immunology, Full-Time, Days (Sign-On Bonus Offered)

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare • Chicago, IL

9d

About The Position

The Medical Laboratory Scientist performs test procedures in a clinical laboratory and conveys results accurately and promptly to physicians or their designees to support patient diagnosis and treatment. The role upholds Northwestern Medicine’s mission, vision, values, Code of Ethics, Corporate Compliance Program, applicable policies and procedures, and regulatory and accreditation standards.

The scientist manages pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic workflows for the assigned laboratory section. This includes verifying orders and specimen information, collecting and processing specimens, performing tests and quality control, reviewing and interpreting results, troubleshooting issues, reporting results, maintaining records, and handling billing or charge capture when applicable. The role also supports safe, high-quality laboratory operations, employee and student training, and service to patients, visitors, and colleagues.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemistry, Biology, or Allied Health that qualifies the applicant to take the ASCP or equivalent certification examination.
• General MLS or MT (ASCP) certification or eligibility, or categorical BB, C, H, or M (ASCP) certification or eligibility.
• If hired after January 19, 2025, must obtain ASCP certification or equivalent certification within one year of employment.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-analytic workflow, including verifying orders and specimen information, resolving unclear or duplicate orders, and confirming specimens are appropriate and available for testing.
• Collect, receive, evaluate, process, prioritize, document, and prepare specimens according to established protocols; take corrective action for unacceptable specimens.
• Perform analytical testing according to written protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain instruments, equipment, reagents, and supplies; perform preventive maintenance, monitor inventory, and complete and evaluate required quality control.
• Prioritize and complete testing within defined turnaround times, adapting to STAT tests, workflow changes, and fluctuations in work volume.
• Review and interpret test results for completeness, correctness, and consistency; perform visual interpretations, reflex testing, and follow-up actions as appropriate.
• Follow protocols for communicating critical values, abnormalities, and results requests; troubleshoot test-system problems and escalate unresolved issues.
• Store and retrieve specimens and related materials according to established protocols.
• Complete post-analytical workflow, including verifying and releasing results, generating and reviewing reports, amending erroneous reports, responding to inquiries, and storing documents and records.
• Perform billing, charge capture, or credits for tests and services when applicable, and escalate billing problems.
• Follow SOPs, instrument and computer procedures, downtime procedures, quality-system responsibilities, proficiency requirements, and competency standards.
• Participate in training new employees and students, operational review of new SOPs, and development, validation, and implementation of new tests.
• Attend at least one personal development session per year and perform other duties as assigned or needed to maintain quality operations.
• Follow safety procedures, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Answer telephone calls using Northwestern Medicine telephone etiquette and maintain patient confidentiality, including protected health information.
• Assist patients, visitors, and other contacts when needed.

Benefits

• A $3,000 sign-on bonus is offered, subject to eligibility rules.
• Tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness are mentioned among the company’s competitive benefits.
• 401(k) matching.
• Lifecycle benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time