Per Diem Clinical Lab Scientist

About the position

The position involves performing pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phase testing of all complexities as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act/Amendment (CLIA). This includes specialized tests and analysis in various areas of clinical laboratory such as Hematology, Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Urinalysis, Immunohematology, Serology, Parasitology, and chemical and morphological examinations. The role is crucial for obtaining data used in diagnosis and recording laboratory test results, with analysis performed on a diverse population including neonatal, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric clients.

Responsibilities

• Upholds Kaiser Permanente's Policies and Procedures, Principles of Responsibilities, and applicable state, federal, and local laws.
• Provides the highest level of patient care as defined by established standards and maintains confidentiality on all tests performed by the laboratory.
• Performs and reports test results for all clinical laboratory procedures as assigned, both automated and manual, without immediate review by the director, consultant, or supervisory team.
• Demonstrates proficiency, competency, and understanding of fundamental principles of clinical laboratory procedures with minimal supervision.
• Monitors and is accountable for test data, quality control, quality assurance, preventive maintenance, proficiency testing, and all operations related to laboratory testing procedures.
• Notifies the Supervisory team of any irregularities that may influence test results.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and test methods.
• Identifies and resolves unusual laboratory situations and notifies appropriate parties within the shift.
• Consults with physicians, nurses, pharmacists, etc., on the technical aspects of methodologies used, appropriateness of test utilization, and interpretation of patient results.
• Instructs new employees and/or Clinical Laboratory Scientist students in laboratory procedures to develop proficiency and understanding of clinical laboratory methodology.
• Provides training, guidance, and pertinent technical information to Laboratory Assistants, support staff, clerks, CLS students, and Medical Center personnel.
• Discusses clinical laboratory problems of mutual interest with the Supervisory team and lead technologist to develop better communication within the department.
• Participates in work groups to address problems, issues, or goals of the department.
• Assists in evaluating new test procedures when requested and communicates possibilities for their implementation to the Supervisory team.
• Meets state requirements for mandatory CEUs.
• Works in a professional, cooperative, and courteous manner as defined by established standards.
• Observes all laboratory, Kaiser Permanente, and regulatory agency policies and procedures.
• Maintains overall safety (including chemical and biological) of the department in accordance with established safety, infection control, and procedure protocols.
• Monitors supplies and reagents and notifies appropriate parties of par levels.
• May perform clerical or other duties of support staff/laboratory assistants, including phlebotomy on inpatients and outpatients as necessary.
• Accepts responsibility for assisting in work areas not primarily assigned.
• Operates computerized laboratory data systems/applications.
• Participates in direct patient care by providing information to enhance understanding of laboratory tests, instructing patients on specimen requirements, and collecting samples for analysis.

Requirements

• Valid Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license as required by state regulations.
• Experience in clinical laboratory testing and procedures in various areas such as Hematology, Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, etc.
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety protocols and quality control measures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with medical staff and patients.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with computerized laboratory data systems/applications.
• Previous training or supervisory experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance and laboratory accreditation standards.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• 401k plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Employee wellness programs