What are the responsibilities and job description for the Medical Laboratory Scientist / Medical Laboratory Technician position at CSU Spur?
Posting Details
Posting Detail Information
Working Title Medical Laboratory Scientist / Medical Laboratory Technician Position Location Fort Collins, CO Work Location Position is fully in-office/in-person Research Professional Position No Posting Number 202500438AP Position Type Admin Professional/ Research Professional Classification Title Technical/Support II Number of Vacancies Work Hours/Week 24-40 Proposed Annual Salary Range $70,000- $75,000; The full-time annualized salary will be prorated based upon an established 24-40 hours per week work schedule. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
Laboratory Services
Laboratory Services at the CSU Health Network perform a wide variety of testing including chemistry, hematology, microbiology, parasitology and virology on site. The lab staff works very closely with the medical providers for the diagnosis and treatment of physical and mental illness.
CSU Health Network
The CSU Health Network (CSUHN) at Colorado State University provides a full range of cost-effective mental health and primary care medical services on campus, referral for community specialty care, and comprehensive health education and prevention services programming. Services such as physical therapy, dentistry, and optometry are available. The CSU Health Network is active in creating a healthy campus environment to support learning and success. For more information about the CSU Health Network at Colorado State University, see https://health.colostate.edu/
Why work at Colorado State University?
CSU was recently ranked first among Colorado-based educational employers and fifth among all in-state employers in Forbes magazine’s “America’s Best Employers by State!”
We are looking to add individuals to our team who have the following characteristics:
Colorado State University (CSU) is committed to providing employees with a strong and competitive benefits and well-being package that supports you, your health, and your family.
These CSU resources help with many aspects of your life – financial, physical, emotional, family, workplace wellness. These resources are part of our investment in you.
Employees are benefits eligible when working a minimum of 20 hours per week; benefits outlined below reflect full-time status of 40 hours per week; some benefits would be prorated for part-time status.
Retirement Programs
While employees of CSU do not contribute to Social Security, the University and the state of Colorado offer competitive retirement plans. As a condition of employment and required by Colorado law, employees are required to participate in either the University’s Defined Contribution Plan (DCP) or the Public Employee’s Retirement Plan (PERA) of Colorado. Each plan offers a generous employer match between 10% – 21%. For more information, visit: https://hr.colostate.edu/current-employees/benefits/afap/retirement/.
Top Public Research University
Colorado State University Is One Of The Nation’s Top Public Research Universities And An Institution On The Rise. In The Last Decade, CSU Has:
Colorado State University is a tobacco and smoke-free campus. For the health of our university community, the use of smoking, vaping or tobacco products is prohibited on CSU grounds or in buildings.
Live in Fort Collins
Fort Collins has been home to CSU since the University’s inception in 1870. It is a vibrant, friendly city of 161,000 tucked against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Northern Colorado, 60 miles from Denver. The strong local economy is noted particularly for a broad range of outdoor activities and a thriving arts and entertainment industry.
Position Summary
Medical Laboratory Scientists / Medical Laboratory Technicians have an aptitude for science and utilize critical thinking skills continuously, working in an environment with chemical and bio-hazardous materials. The Medical Laboratory Professional (MLS / MLT) at the CSU Health Network is an allied health professional performing the daily role of analyzing and testing specimen, such as: blood, urine, synovial fluid, tissue samples and other bio-hazardous materials from patients for testing. The MLS / MLT also assumes the responsibility of explaining proper collection techniques for quality clinical diagnostic testing. This position is responsible for operating and maintaining complex analyzers and medical equipment used in the laboratory and ensuring accurate laboratory results of each patient. The MLS / MLT implements diagnostic testing in chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology and urinalysis as requested by a Medical Professional.
The MLS / MLT plays an integral role in the health care system by assisting physicians, through laboratory results, ascertain the appropriate diagnosis and treatment of human disease and illness by collecting, processing and analyzing patient samples, and then reporting those test results in an accurate and efficient manner. The MLS / MLT communicates the correct interpretation of laboratory results to the many different levels of requesting providers. Providing a strong working relationship between the laboratory, medical and nursing staff, this position plays an integral role in the continued, expedient and quality health care for the patient. The MLS / MLT also performs a liaison role between the laboratory and outside/reference laboratories utilizing computer skills. They will set-up and maintain each laboratory bench specific worklist, and adjust as necessary, the test library of our reference labs and our own laboratory.
This is a regular, 12-month position that may be either part- or full-time, working from 24-40 hour per week. The number of hours will be identified and a regular schedule established. The position works between the hours of 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday, and rotating weekends and/or holidays for a limited number of hours based on volume, where microbiology is performed independently. The full-time annualized salary is pro-rated based upon the established 24-40 hours per week work schedule and is commensurate with experience and qualifications. This position reports directly to the Laboratory Manager.
Required Job Qualifications
Licensure/Certification
Proof Of Certification By a National Board Of Registry Or Board Of Certification (BOC) To Include One Or More Of The Following:
Experience
Job Duty Category Specimen Analysis/Bench Duties Duty/Responsibility
Application Details
Special Instructions to Applicants
CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. Applicants needing assistance to submit application materials may contact Tammy Roehrich at Tammy.Roehrich@colostate.edu.
Complete Applications Must Include:
References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.
Note that applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Application materials will be held in confidence by the Search Committee through semi-finalist interviews. Confidentiality of application materials detaches at the point where a candidate accepts participation in a finalist interview. At that time, redacted application materials are shared with campus stakeholders when invited to participate and give feedback to the Search Committee.
Conditions of Employment Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires), Shift Work - This position works rotating weekends and or holidays, for a limited number of hours based on volume, where microbiology is performed independently., Special Requirements/Other - Health Network follows CDC guidelines for Employee Health in a healthcare setting, including proof of vaccinations. Employees must show proof of compliance/willingness to comply by start date. Search Contact Tammy Roehrich, Tammy.Roehrich@colostate.edu EEO
Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
References Requested
References Requested
Minimum Requested 3 Maximum Requested 3
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Required Documents
Posting Detail Information
Working Title Medical Laboratory Scientist / Medical Laboratory Technician Position Location Fort Collins, CO Work Location Position is fully in-office/in-person Research Professional Position No Posting Number 202500438AP Position Type Admin Professional/ Research Professional Classification Title Technical/Support II Number of Vacancies Work Hours/Week 24-40 Proposed Annual Salary Range $70,000- $75,000; The full-time annualized salary will be prorated based upon an established 24-40 hours per week work schedule. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
- Review our detailed benefits information here.
- Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
- For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
- Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!
Laboratory Services
Laboratory Services at the CSU Health Network perform a wide variety of testing including chemistry, hematology, microbiology, parasitology and virology on site. The lab staff works very closely with the medical providers for the diagnosis and treatment of physical and mental illness.
CSU Health Network
The CSU Health Network (CSUHN) at Colorado State University provides a full range of cost-effective mental health and primary care medical services on campus, referral for community specialty care, and comprehensive health education and prevention services programming. Services such as physical therapy, dentistry, and optometry are available. The CSU Health Network is active in creating a healthy campus environment to support learning and success. For more information about the CSU Health Network at Colorado State University, see https://health.colostate.edu/
Why work at Colorado State University?
CSU was recently ranked first among Colorado-based educational employers and fifth among all in-state employers in Forbes magazine’s “America’s Best Employers by State!”
We are looking to add individuals to our team who have the following characteristics:
- Confidence – They expect success in what they do
- Compassion – They have genuine care and concern for others
- Empowerment – They use their knowledge and skills to adjust, change, and improve daily tasks/work for themselves and others
- Integrity – They are honest, and others trust them
- Responsibility – They take ownership of decisions and actions
Colorado State University (CSU) is committed to providing employees with a strong and competitive benefits and well-being package that supports you, your health, and your family.
These CSU resources help with many aspects of your life – financial, physical, emotional, family, workplace wellness. These resources are part of our investment in you.
Employees are benefits eligible when working a minimum of 20 hours per week; benefits outlined below reflect full-time status of 40 hours per week; some benefits would be prorated for part-time status.
- Inclusive leave programs and benefit options including:
- Generous amount of paid time off to include 24 vacation days, 15 sick days, 11 paid holidays, annually
- Comprehensive and affordable benefits programs and services including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, Parental Leave, work/life resources, and more
- Substantial employer match between 10% – 21% depending on retirement program
- Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for your overall well-being
- Discounted staff memberships in campus recreation center
- FREE college credit courses (up to 9-semester credits per year) through the Employee Study Privilege program
- Up to 50% resident, regular on-campus tuition for eligible family members through the Tuition Scholarship Program
- FREE employee growth opportunity through CSU training and development
- After-school programs and summer camps for kids
- Community Discounts
- FREE MAX transit use with CSU identification
Retirement Programs
While employees of CSU do not contribute to Social Security, the University and the state of Colorado offer competitive retirement plans. As a condition of employment and required by Colorado law, employees are required to participate in either the University’s Defined Contribution Plan (DCP) or the Public Employee’s Retirement Plan (PERA) of Colorado. Each plan offers a generous employer match between 10% – 21%. For more information, visit: https://hr.colostate.edu/current-employees/benefits/afap/retirement/.
Top Public Research University
Colorado State University Is One Of The Nation’s Top Public Research Universities And An Institution On The Rise. In The Last Decade, CSU Has:
- Produced record enrollment
- Delivered groundbreaking research driven by a highly productive faculty
- Revitalized campus through a transformational building campaign
- Shaped an unrivaled learning environment where nine of 10 recent graduates say they would choose CSU again and rate their education as excellent
Colorado State University is a tobacco and smoke-free campus. For the health of our university community, the use of smoking, vaping or tobacco products is prohibited on CSU grounds or in buildings.
Live in Fort Collins
Fort Collins has been home to CSU since the University’s inception in 1870. It is a vibrant, friendly city of 161,000 tucked against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Northern Colorado, 60 miles from Denver. The strong local economy is noted particularly for a broad range of outdoor activities and a thriving arts and entertainment industry.
Position Summary
Medical Laboratory Scientists / Medical Laboratory Technicians have an aptitude for science and utilize critical thinking skills continuously, working in an environment with chemical and bio-hazardous materials. The Medical Laboratory Professional (MLS / MLT) at the CSU Health Network is an allied health professional performing the daily role of analyzing and testing specimen, such as: blood, urine, synovial fluid, tissue samples and other bio-hazardous materials from patients for testing. The MLS / MLT also assumes the responsibility of explaining proper collection techniques for quality clinical diagnostic testing. This position is responsible for operating and maintaining complex analyzers and medical equipment used in the laboratory and ensuring accurate laboratory results of each patient. The MLS / MLT implements diagnostic testing in chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology and urinalysis as requested by a Medical Professional.
The MLS / MLT plays an integral role in the health care system by assisting physicians, through laboratory results, ascertain the appropriate diagnosis and treatment of human disease and illness by collecting, processing and analyzing patient samples, and then reporting those test results in an accurate and efficient manner. The MLS / MLT communicates the correct interpretation of laboratory results to the many different levels of requesting providers. Providing a strong working relationship between the laboratory, medical and nursing staff, this position plays an integral role in the continued, expedient and quality health care for the patient. The MLS / MLT also performs a liaison role between the laboratory and outside/reference laboratories utilizing computer skills. They will set-up and maintain each laboratory bench specific worklist, and adjust as necessary, the test library of our reference labs and our own laboratory.
This is a regular, 12-month position that may be either part- or full-time, working from 24-40 hour per week. The number of hours will be identified and a regular schedule established. The position works between the hours of 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday, and rotating weekends and/or holidays for a limited number of hours based on volume, where microbiology is performed independently. The full-time annualized salary is pro-rated based upon the established 24-40 hours per week work schedule and is commensurate with experience and qualifications. This position reports directly to the Laboratory Manager.
Required Job Qualifications
Licensure/Certification
Proof Of Certification By a National Board Of Registry Or Board Of Certification (BOC) To Include One Or More Of The Following:
- American Society for Clinical Pathologists (ASCP)
- American Medical Technologists (AMT)
- American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB)
- Bachelor of Science from an accredited Medical Laboratory Sciences program; OR
- Bachelor of Science (BS), associate’s degree (AS/AAS) for Medical Laboratory Science, plus enough work experience to take and pass the Board of Certification (BOC)
- For MLS, one year of work experience in a clinical laboratory, which must have included one year of microbiology experience (recent MLS graduates may use their internships as experience); OR
- For MLT, three years of work experience in clinical laboratory, which must have included three years of microbiology experience
- Experience operating and maintaining complex analyzers and medical equipment used in the laboratory and ensuring accurate laboratory results
- Strong microscopy skills for hematology and microbiology
Experience
- For MLS, two plus years of work experience in a clinical laboratory, which must have included one year of microbiology experience (recent MLS graduates may use their internships as experience); OR
- For MLT, four plus years of work experience in clinical laboratory, which must have included three years of microbiology experience
- Effective interpersonal and customer service skills
- Experience working in a multidisciplinary setting
- Exceptional listening, verbal and written skills to communicate effectively with other laboratory staff and healthcare providers
- Highly motivated and committed to excellence
- Outstanding problem solving, critical thinking skills, decisive judgement, and attention to detail and accuracy
- High level of accountability to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and practices
- Ability to multi-task and adapt to change
- Ability to work effectively in a team and autonomously
- Application of computer knowledge to validate new instrumentation and laboratory tests
- In-depth experience in a technical field which requires interpretive abilities
- Ability to analyze policies, programs, and initiatives to make recommendations for quality improvement
- Active membership in a professional society related to the field of Clinical Laboratory Science
Job Duty Category Specimen Analysis/Bench Duties Duty/Responsibility
- This position will work independently on rotating weekends and occasional holidays, interpreting and resulting microbiology specimen
- Receives patient samples for testing and prepares report form or requisition for reference lab send-out testing depending on individual scenarios
- Answers questions with respect to test result or interpretation and relays test result; reporting and documenting critical values immediately; ensuring correct read-back and documents into the patient’s chart
- Analyzes human blood and body fluids, interprets data, and based on findings, performs accurate additional testing or recommends additional testing necessary to establish a diagnosis
- Analyzes sample or slide for confirmation of spurious results; determines the need for Pathologist review, need for reporting to the state, or further testing (ex. sero-typing, CRE, ESBL confirmation, anemias, myelodysplastic disorders or hemoglobin electrophoresis)
- Repeats sample analysis when results are questionable, or controls are out of range; recollects sample if it does not meet required specifications for tests orders.
- Reviews the work of co-workers for accuracy and makes or suggests corrections as needed for proper laboratory resulting procedure
- Inspects all bench material for expiration, quality, and hazardous or biohazard potential, thus keeping the laboratory in compliance with the federal, state, and local environment health and safety regulations. After determination of level of hazard and putting reagents etc. in the appropriate storage or waste receptacle, a required weekly inspection of the hazardous waste collection site and determination of need for removal by the CSU Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) department is made
- Performs and documents completion of all bench maintenance duties, including monitoring of temperatures, CO2 output, quality control, calibration, lot expirations and inventory
- Assists in maintaining the laboratory inventory utilizing knowledge of the approximate turnaround time for delivery when ordering supplies as needed to create a suitable working environment for testing
- Collects samples, labels and processes them for testing, and prepares a report form or requisition for reference lab send-out testing
- Answers questions from patients, including but not limited to, questions regarding cost of test, insurance, specimen collection, test criteria, and turnaround time for results
- Adapts to diverse communication styles to interpret orders, answer phone calls and relay messages internally or when communicating results to outside clients, medical records, nursing staff and providers
- Provides prompt and friendly service to internal and external customers maintaining sensitive language to a diverse population
- Identifies customer needs through courteous questioning and a sincere desire to be helpful
- Follows up with customers, as appropriate, to ensure satisfaction
- Supplies considerations/recommendations for alternative procedures/tests to providers when consulted
- Exhibits knowledge of community resources for patient management and provides the necessary paperwork or website address for resources
- Communicates in a respectful and courteous manner in person, via email, or on the phone
- Demonstrates effective listening skills and maintains confidentiality of patient information in accordance with policies of the CSU Health Network, Colorado State University, state, federal and HIPAA requirements
- Conveys positive and professional image of work unit to fellow employees, patients, vendors and clients by using appropriate professional language and terminology
- Performs preventative maintenance and quality control on laboratory equipment to assure accurate test results
- Maintains strict adherence to confidentiality, HIPAA laws and the regulations of the Cures Act for honest, efficient and reliable resulting with patient privacy at the forefront
- Reviews control/calibration reports and patient results to assure accuracy of reporting and completion of transmission through the multiple interfaces daily
- Trains new/current employees on upkeep, maintenance and operation of analyzers in the laboratory
- Participates in Quality Improvement/Quality Assurance initiatives to enhance the quality of laboratory processes and programs
- Evaluates daily control material; determines trends, shifts or other issues associated with quality control and remedies the situation alone, with fellow techs or by utilizing manufacturer technical support
- Records procedural deviation due to specimen, analyzer, or testing material in assigned quality assurance binder and, if necessary, provides a CSU Health Network occurrence report for review by the Laboratory Manager, Quality Assurance Lead, and the facility Compliance Coordinator
- Understands and evaluates the indices of hemolysis, icterus, and lipemia and what effects these have on patient results
- Maintains the required continuing education units (CEU) per year or the total CEU for the 3-year maintenance in accordance with the national certification maintenance program through the BOC/BOR
- Attends safety-training programs, as appropriate
- Completes and passes required competencies and proficiency testing in the laboratory, biannually the first year and annually each subsequent year
- Attends continuing education classes, seminars and conferences, keeping abreast of the developments in the field of Medical Laboratory Science and Pathology through seminars, webinars and courses from accredited agencies, (i.e. AACC, ASCLS, AMS, API, and CAP) or analyzer manufacturers/vendors
- Utilizes knowledge of multiple specimen collection needs for specific tests and Instructs patients how to collect various body fluids, such as urine (clean catch, first void, etc.) semen, stool (culture, enteric panel, occult blood, etc.) blood testing (fasting, non-fasting, medication 12-hours post prandial), 24-hour urine collection and transport, chlamydia and gonorrhea testing, and etc.
- Prepares samples for testing and transport, if needed
- Interprets orders from care providers on the computer or faxed orders from outside providers
- Utilizes proper specimen handling and biohazard techniques
- The MLS / MLT inspects all bench material on a regular basis for expiration, quality, and hazardous or biohazard potential thus keeping the laboratory in compliance with the environmental protection agency (EPA) and with federal, state, and local environmental health and safety regulations
- After determination of hazard level, all reagents and other potentially hazardous materials are placed in the appropriate storage or waste receptacle
- Performance of a weekly inspection of the hazardous waste satellite accumulation area and determination of the need for an electronic request for disposal (eRFD) by the CSU Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) department is made, and appropriate steps are taken for the safe removal of the materials from the laboratory and CSU Health Network
Application Details
Special Instructions to Applicants
CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. Applicants needing assistance to submit application materials may contact Tammy Roehrich at Tammy.Roehrich@colostate.edu.
Complete Applications Must Include:
- Cover letter addressing Required Job Qualifications, Preferred Job Qualifications and Essential Job Duties
- Resume
- And 3 references
References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.
Note that applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Application materials will be held in confidence by the Search Committee through semi-finalist interviews. Confidentiality of application materials detaches at the point where a candidate accepts participation in a finalist interview. At that time, redacted application materials are shared with campus stakeholders when invited to participate and give feedback to the Search Committee.
Conditions of Employment Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires), Shift Work - This position works rotating weekends and or holidays, for a limited number of hours based on volume, where microbiology is performed independently., Special Requirements/Other - Health Network follows CDC guidelines for Employee Health in a healthcare setting, including proof of vaccinations. Employees must show proof of compliance/willingness to comply by start date. Search Contact Tammy Roehrich, Tammy.Roehrich@colostate.edu EEO
Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
References Requested
References Requested
Minimum Requested 3 Maximum Requested 3
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- * Do you have proof of certification by a National Board of Registry or Board of Certification (BOC) to include one or more of the following: American Society for Clinical Pathologists (ASCP); American Medical Technologists (AMT); and/or American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB)?
- Yes
- No
- * Do you have a Bachelor of Science from an accredited Medical Laboratory Sciences program; OR Bachelor of Science, Associate’s degree (AS/AAS) for Medical Laboratory Science, plus enough work experience to take and pass the Board of Certification?
- Yes
- No
- * Do you have work experience as follows? For MLS, one year of work experience in a clinical laboratory, which must have included one year of microbiology experience (recent MLS graduates may use their internships as experience); OR for MLT, three years of work experience in a clinical laboratory, which must have included three years of microbiology experience?
- Yes
- No
- * Do you have experience operating and maintaining complex analyzers and medical equipment used in the laboratory and ensuring accurate laboratory results?
- Yes
- No
- * Do you have strong microscopy skills for hematology and microbiology?
- Yes
- No
- * This is a regular, 12-month position that may be either part- or full-time, working from 24-40 hour per week. The number of hours will be identified and a regular schedule established. The position works between the hours of 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday, and rotating weekends and/or holidays for a limited number of hours based on volume, where microbiology is performed independently. The full-time annualized salary is pro-rated based upon the established 24-40 hours per week work schedule and is commensurate with experience and qualifications. How many hours do you prefer to work per week?
- My preference is to work 24 hours per week.
- My preference is to work 32 hours per week.
- My preference is to work 40 hours per week.
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Resume
Salary : $70,000 - $75,000
