Microbiology Supervisor

University of Illinois at Chicago•Chicago, IL

29d•$69,181 - $140,005•Onsite

About The Position

The Microbiology Supervisor (Medical Technologist II) oversees and coordinates the activities of the subordinate technologists, technicians, aides, and assistants performing a variety of tests of a moderately or highly complex nature on patient and quality control samples. In this capacity, s/he ensures efficient, accurate and timely reporting of results of tests and examinations. S/he also performs routine and complex tests which involve delicate and exacting steps requiring measured judgment as to the appropriate procedures to be employed. Such testing may be performed by manual methods involving technical interpretation, and by automated analyzers involving maintenance and troubleshooting. The Medical Technologist II may also assist with the instructing of laboratory personnel, medical students, pathology residents and medical technologist students. S/he must be experienced in Bacteriolgy, Mycology and Mycobacteriology diagnostics and laboratory workflow in depth. Knowledge of regulatory standards (e.g., CAP, CLIA) and quality assurance practices specific to bacteriology.

Requirements

High school graduation or equivalent.
Meets basic standards and qualifications for laboratory testing for general supervisory personnel under Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), Subpart M, Section 493.1461.
Bachelor's degree in Science that meets the CLIA requirements to perform high complexity testing.

Nice To Haves

Medical technology training and a minimum of two year's experience working in clinical microbiology.
Able to organize, prioritize and coordinate all activities within the sections of responsibility.
Must have good communication skills in order to teach microbiologic techniques and procedures and speak with physicians, patients and staff.
Must have good writing skills in order to update and write procedures and manuals.
Must be able to operate and perform troubleshooting of equipment and instruments in areas of responsibility.
Must be able to perform and interpret testing within areas of responsibility (Gram stains, AFB stains, DFA stains, isolation and biochemical testing for organism identification, susceptibility testing, manual and automated, ELISA testing, Instrument testing, etc.)
Must be aware of types of pathogenic organisms that may be present in clinical material collected from various anatomical sites.
Must have knowledge of correct procedures for handling potentially infectious specimen material of patient origin so as not to contaminate self, coworkers, or the work area.
Must have knowledge and understanding of the importance of appropriate waste handling and disposal.
Must understand the applications and purpose of laboratory quality assurance programs and procedures.
Be able to identify personnel problems and have knowledge of the University's Civil Service Policies and Rules for Non-academic Personnel in executing progressive discipline.
Extensive hands-on experience in clinical microbiology, with a strong emphasis on bacteriology, including culture interpretation and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Experience in Mycology & Mycobacteriology diagnostics and laboratory workflow.
In-depth knowledge of regulatory standards (e.g., CAP, CLIA) and quality assurance practices specific to bacteriology.

Responsibilities

Perform and interpret testing in areas of responsibility, including all manual and automated testing.
Directly supervise the Microbiology Laboratory technologists and technicians involved in the above testing.
Train the Microbiology staff on any newly developed/validated assays.
Prepare documentation for new assays including procedure, QC/PCR sheets and implement database when appropriate.
Prepare and conduct Performance Management reviews.
Institute employee discipline and counseling.
Assist in employee recruitment and interview process.
Review Laboratory Information System Quality Assurance (QA) report.
Prepare staffing schedules.
Conduct periodic staff meetings.
Ensure that the staff are aware and knowledgeable of new policies and procedures.
Ensure continuous workflow of the laboratory by working closely with other supervisors by communicating verbally and through the Shift Change Log(s).
Plan, assign and adjust work assignments to achieve maximum efficiency without compromising the highest standards of accuracy of results and the timeliness of their reporting.
Coordinate training of personnel, complete training checklists and complete competency evaluation.
Perform advanced maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure continuous operation of all instrumentation and track systems.
Verify that all QC is being performed and documented.
Coordinate instrument comparisons and AMR studies.
Coordinate CAP proficiency testing.
Inventory and orders supply and reagents.
Perform Quality Assurance (QA) functions: review daily outlier report; review weekly Levey Jennings charts; edit quality control results and update ranges; evaluate new QC materials.
Perform CLIA validation studies for new instruments, tests, procedures.
Coordinate and participate in R&D projects.
Prepare, review and update laboratory procedure manuals.
Ensure readiness for inspection by regulatory bodies.
Assist in payroll/Kronos preparation.
Review maintenance logs.
Review quality control reports.
Ensure Pending logs for all benches are clear.
Ensure staff meet TAT's and Quality Assurance standards in all areas of testing.
Interact with physicians, patients, staff, visitors, and all customers via telephone conversations and in person, in a pleasant and helpful manner.
Work cooperatively with the administrative staff to prepare for inspections. and surveys related to accreditation requirements.
Complete Shift Report or Problem Analysis Log to thoroughly document any matters requiring follow-up or corrective action.
Responsible for verification and validation of molecular and non-molecular FDA-Approved tests, modified FDA approved tests, and lab developed tests, following Instructions and input by lab directors.