Medical Lab Technician (MLT) / Medical Lab Scientist (MLS)

UNC Health Appalachian•Boone, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

UNC Health Appalachian is hiring a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) to perform laboratory testing that supports physicians in diagnosing and treating patients. The role performs chemical, hematologic, microscopic, and serological tests and procedures, and analyzes bodily fluids, tissues, and other specimens. The position is PRN and scheduled Friday through Sunday, 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., in Boone, North Carolina. Hiring is available at both MLT and MLS certification levels, with compensation based on education and experience. The role requires safe and effective specimen handling, accurate testing and documentation, adherence to laboratory quality control and assurance procedures, and use of laboratory computer programs to track and report results. Staff communicate with patients, families, colleagues, and physicians and respond promptly and accurately to emergencies and changes in patient condition. MLS staff also perform phlebotomy as part of specimen collection. UNC Health Appalachian describes opportunities for career growth through tuition reimbursement, certification bonuses, ongoing professional development, and potential advancement from MLT to MLS. The organization operates three hospitals, 13 medical practices, and specialty centers in the High Country. Employment is contingent on successful completion of a background and drug screen.

Requirements

MLT: Associate’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or a related field.
MLS: Graduation from an accredited school of medical technology, or a combination of chemistry, biology, and microbiology coursework sufficient to achieve certification by an accredited agency.
MLS: Training experience through an accredited Medical Technology or university program.
Strong communication skills and ability to work within the chain of command using positive verbal and non-verbal techniques.
Competence in safe and effective specimen processing within the limits of certification and hospital policy.
General knowledge of all laboratory sections sufficient to perform duties under general supervision.
Exceptional customer service for patients, families, staff, and physicians.
Proficiency with laboratory computer programs and ability to type at least 25 WPM.
Ability to access all areas of the hospital, including patient bedsides and laboratory storage areas.
Ability to stand and walk continuously, often for more than eight hours per shift, and to bend, squat, kneel, twist, turn, and reach frequently.
Ability to frequently lift, carry, push, or pull 50 pounds or more.
Manual dexterity sufficient to operate laboratory equipment, including microscopes, centrifuges, and analyzers.
Near visual acuity to read procedure manuals and interpret test results by color and intensity, and auditory acuity sufficient to hear phones, timers, and alarms.
Ability to work with regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, reagents, and laboratory specimens; hazards from electrical and mechanical equipment; ionizing and nonionizing radiation, including x-ray and microwave; and emergencies.

Nice To Haves

MLT: Certification through a recognized agency such as ASCP is recommended but not required.
MLS: Certification through an accredited testing agency is preferred.
MLT: Previous experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
MLS: Previous Medical Technologist experience.

Responsibilities

Perform chemical, hematologic, microscopic, and serological laboratory tests and procedures to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating patients.
Analyze bodily fluids, tissues, and other specimens accurately.
Accept and process laboratory test orders from physicians and nursing units according to hospital policy.
Collect blood, urine, and sputum specimens from nursing units or directly from patients according to established protocols; MLS staff also perform phlebotomy.
Process and handle specimens safely and effectively within legal limits, certifications, and laboratory policies and procedures.
Follow laboratory Quality Control and Quality Assurance policies and procedures.
Prepare reports and maintain accurate, timely records.
Use laboratory computer programs to log, track, and report results.
Communicate courteously and effectively with patients, families, staff, and physicians, working within the chain of command.
Respond quickly and accurately to emergencies and changes in patient condition.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, where applicable.
Health Savings Account option.
Supplemental insurance options.
403(b) retirement plan with employer match.
Paid time off.
Tuition reimbursement and certification bonuses.
Paid parental leave.
Wellness incentives and an award-winning wellness program.
May be eligible for childcare assistance.
Employee discounts, including discounts to attractions such as Dollywood and Tweetsie Railroad.
Student loan refinancing and college savings resources.
Employee-to-employee financial assistance.
Ongoing professional development.