Medical Technologist III

Texas Health & Human Services Commission•Austin, TX

64d•Onsite

About The Position

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage. Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people's lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS is comprised of nine psychiatric hospitals, one youth residential treatment facility, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below. Work is performed within Austin State Hospital and under the direction of the Laboratory Manager serving the Texas State Hospital Systems. Performs routine clinical laboratory work on bodily tissues and fluids; Analyzes, logs and reports test results. Operates and maintains laboratory instruments, including microscopes, automated analyzers, and other equipment. Assures adherence to quality control standards to meet agency, state, and federal requirements; teaches Medical Laboratory Science trainees on bench and in presenting didactic lectures. Duties are performed independently with general supervision, with moderate latitude for independent judgment.

Requirements

Knowledge of general laboratory concepts and practices, specifically as applied to Chemistry and Urinalysis laboratory testing.
Knowledge of laboratory safety, including sample-handling techniques.
Knowledge of education methods and administration.
Knowledge of compliance standards for applicable regulatory requirements.
Skill to keep accurate, detailed records.
Skill to use and troubleshoot various items of laboratory equipment associated with work area.
Skill to use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material.
Skill to maintain work area instruments and automated testing equipment.
Skill to manipulate standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy and safety.
Skill to use a computer.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to prioritize and organize detailed tasks to maintain the required team timeframes.
Ability to recognize and solve work area problems.
Ability to work in harmony with other team members.
Ability to work as part of a team adhering to structured deadlines for completion of critical laboratory procedures that are performed in high volume.
Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.
Ability to teach work area procedures to co-workers and students.
Ability to prepare diagnostic (analytical) reagents and/or controls accurately.
Certified as a Medical Technologist (MT) OR Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), ASCP OR Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), ASCP, or equivalent.
Have earned a baccalaureate degree or associates degree.
Must be certified as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Performs clinical laboratory procedures in Chemistry/Urinalysis department according to standards and protocols. Analyzes samples, operates equipment and maintains records to support medical diagnosis and treatment.
Evaluates and interprets complex data prior to releasing results. Enters data into laboratory information systems.
Performs start up, cleanings, calibrations, and minor maintenance on laboratory equipment. Performs troubleshooting and makes routine adjustments as indicated.
Performs instruction and bench supervision of Medical Laboratory Science trainees and new employees.
Actively participates in quality control review and proficiency testing.
Maintains inventory of supplies. Ensuring orders being placed are received on time and ready for use without work stoppage for supplies.
Demonstrates skill in medical technology competencies in Chemistry and Urinalysis.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.