Clinical Laboratory Scientist

• Follows the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing analysis, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results.
• Ensuring that the patient's name and specimen number are correctly identified.
• Type of specimen and time drawn is correct for the test ordered.
• Specimen integrity has been maintained from the initial draw / pick-up of specimen(s) until arrival and completion of test(s) requested.
• Follows the laboratory's procedures for handling potentially infectious materials.
• Maintains records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient samples.
• Adheres to the laboratory's quality control policies, documents all quality control activities instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed.
• Follows the laboratory's quality control policies whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established levels of performance.
• Capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results.
• Documents all corrective action taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
• Documents all corrective action taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
• Performs all routine and new test procedures that are complex and require professional judgment when assigned to a specific area.
• Demonstrates knowledge of theory behind the test performed.
• Recognized departure from the norm on adult and geriatric patients and be able to understand the scientific and theoretical reasons for such deviation.
• Calibrates instruments and assesses the accuracy of the equipment; performs equipment preventive and corrective maintenance.
• Check and verify all the test results released by the laboratory. This includes accepting or rejecting results due to delta check inconsistencies, requesting redraw for verification, canceling results due to gross hemolysis, clots or QNS.
• Reviews outgoing reports for technical and clerical errors.
• Able to communicate with nurses and physicians, and ability to work well with others.
• Assist the Lead CLS in maintaining adequate supplies and inventory levels.
• Demonstrates the ability to prioritize work duties.
• Recognizes the administrative changes in staffing and scheduling and adapt to these changes.
• Assists in developing and installing quality control standards to ensure accuracy of test results.
• Assists the Lead CLS in reviewing and solving quality control problems.
• Initiates, suggests and if necessary, implements technical and administrative changes upon approval of the Laboratory Director.
• Maintain compliance with CAP, CLIA, CA state, and other regulatory requirements.
• Perform daily quality control, instrument calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Participate in proficiency testing and laboratory quality improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation according to laboratory policies and regulatory standards.

EXPERIENCE / SKILLS REQUIRED

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in medical technology, microbiology, chemistry, biology or related field.
• 2+ years of clinical laboratory experience.
• Must meet CLIA requirements for testing personnel for High Complexity Testing.
• Ability to work independently and have good sound analytical judgment to function effectively under stress in certain situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills sufficient to work closely with others on a team.
• Possess the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, effectively interacting with physicians, facilities and laboratory personnel.
• Possess speed, consistency and accuracy in tasks to meet the laboratory standards.
• Customer service oriented
• Self- starter with a high initiative, a good problem and decision-maker.
• Ability to demonstrate flexibility in work environment, performing a variety of changing tasks.
• Commitment to tasks. Displaying a high level of cognitive, interpretive or judgment skills.
• Strong knowledge of clinical laboratory principles, methodologies, and instrumentation.
• Experience working in core diagnostic CLIA laboratory environment.
• Experience in quality assurance processes and CLIA documentation.
• Experience with laboratory information systems (LIS)