Position Overview
Reporting directly to the Laboratory Manager, the Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) / Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is responsible for specimen preparation, manual and automated diagnostic testing across all core laboratory sections, and result evaluation. This position oversees routine quality control, proficiency testing, and quality assurance processes while supporting performance improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate possesses broad technical capabilities, strong regulatory knowledge, and the ability to work productively and independently without direct supervision, including during on-call situations.
Schedule & Shift Details
- Shift: Day / Evening shifts
- Workweek Schedule: Includes rotation for nights and weekends
- On-Call: On-call coverage required with independent, unsupervised operation
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare clinical specimens and operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot automated diagnostic analyzers and specialized equipment.
- Perform routine and complex manual laboratory testing across all laboratory areas following established procedures.
- Evaluate, validate, and report test results accurately and promptly to facilitate clinical decision-making.
- Manage daily laboratory Quality Control (QC), participate in Proficiency Testing (PT), and uphold departmental Quality Assurance (QA) standards.
- Research, validate, and establish new laboratory procedures and testing methodologies.
- Actively participate in facility-wide performance improvement projects and assist with departmental budgeting considerations.
- Maintain strict adherence to CLIA regulations, HIPAA guidelines, and hospital compliance standards.
- Collaborate and communicate cooperatively with providers, nursing staff, and multidisciplinary healthcare departments.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education
- Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Science, or a related scientific discipline from an accredited institution.
Licensure & Certification
- State Licensure: Active licensure in the State of Montana as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) required.
- Certification: ASCP or equivalent national professional certification required.
Experience & Competencies
- Comprehensive generalist experience across all laboratory benches, with strong knowledge in Microbiology and Immunohematology (Blood Bank) preferred.
- Demonstrated proficiency with clinical laboratory instrumentation, computer systems, and Laboratory Information Systems (LIS).
- Solid understanding of CLIA requirements, HIPAA privacy laws, healthcare compliance, and operational budgeting.
- Proven ability to work productively, make sound clinical judgments, and handle high-volume or STAT workloads without direct supervision.