MLS Technical Specialist, Chemistry

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Technical Specialist is a highly specialized laboratory role requiring advanced skill in a specialty area. As CLIA-defined testing personnel, the specialist may perform waived and non-waived testing, follows laboratory policies and standard operating procedures, and works independently to produce accurate results and maintain records. The role requires professional knowledge to read and interpret test results used by providers to diagnose and treat disease. Under general supervision, the specialist performs specimen processing, testing, and reporting, and maintains quality control, calibration, maintenance, proficiency-testing, and corrective-action documentation. The specialist identifies problems that could affect test performance or result reporting and either resolves them or promptly notifies the appropriate laboratory leadership. The role also includes technical or general supervisory responsibilities delegated under CLIA, particularly day-to-day oversight of trainees and training operations. Under the general supervision of the Technical Director and Clinical Supervisors, the Technical Specialist–Education supervises trainees at assigned workstations, reviews quality control, and oversees training and competency assessment. The specialist develops and maintains training programs and materials, coordinates competency reviews with supervisors and the Technical Director, reviews training documentation, and helps incorporate an education perspective into new procedures and SOPs. This position does not require patient care.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology or Laboratory Sciences.
Medical Technologist (ASCP) credential from the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC).
Four years of experience in a Specialty Laboratory.
Practical and theoretical knowledge of tests and procedures sufficient to review findings and advise and direct subordinates.
Advanced analytical skills and judgment.
Understanding of computer technology and its application to analytical procedures and quality control.
Comprehensive understanding of laboratory equipment, its operation, maintenance and repair, and analytical techniques.
Ability to work independently, evaluate situations, and act appropriately.
Detailed knowledge of applicable federal, state, and accreditation requirements.
Ability to multitask and manage validations and projects in a fast-paced environment.
Advanced computer skills and comprehensive understanding of test principles, equipment operation, and computer system operations.
Ability to make appropriate decisions and develop and complete follow-up actions with laboratory leadership.
Ability to provide direction and guidance to less experienced technologists as a senior team member.
Careful attention to detail and ability to follow written protocols and communicate identified issues to supervisors.
Ability to work as a team member.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact professionally and effectively with staff, physicians, hospital personnel, employees, and patients.

Responsibilities

Process specimens, perform tests, and report test results in accordance with laboratory procedures and authorized testing responsibilities.
Follow procedures for specimen handling, test analyses, reporting, and maintenance of patient test-result records.
Maintain records showing proficiency-testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient samples.
Document quality-control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations, and maintenance.
Follow established corrective-action procedures when test systems do not meet acceptable performance levels.
Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or result reporting, resolve them when appropriate, or immediately notify the designated laboratory supervisor or director.
Document corrective actions when test systems deviate from established performance specifications.
Create, document, maintain, plan, and implement training programs, including competency assessments for new procedures adopted into the Specialty Labs.
Manage competency reviews with Supervisors and the Technical Director, involving the Compliance Officer as needed.
Review and approve completed training paperwork and documentation, ensuring records and signoffs are maintained in the MediaLab Compass module.
Receive training on new processes and contribute an education perspective to the development of SOPs.
Help determine whether new competency assessments are needed.
Review training materials for alignment with current laboratory workflows and approve required updates to training guidelines.
Develop training procedures for technical staff and students from affiliated programs and the MGB MLS Training Program.
Supervise trainees at assigned workstations, including quality-control review, training, and competency assessment.