At Houston Methodist, the Medical Laboratory Scientist Specialist position is responsible for performing both routine and complex analyses at a subject matter expert level, which necessitates knowledge of laboratory techniques, principles, and equipment and their interrelationship. This position exercises good judgment by using critical thinking skills and takes an active role in problem solving for the laboratory section. The Medical Laboratory Scientist Specialist also ensures that specimens are accessioned and processed expeditiously in order to deliver quality laboratory results in an effective and cost efficient manner. Additional responsibilities include serving as a role model and preceptor for staff and leading quality control initiatives for section.
PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner.
- Orients, guides and mentors team members and students, to help build confidence and competency in skills, knowledge and abilities. Administers and grades staff competency assessments.
- Participates in laboratory and organization wide initiatives.
SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Performs qualitative and quantitative tests and examination using various analyzers and / or manual methods.Sets pace for workload and troubleshoots workflow issues for laboratory section. Utilizes all available work time by assisting others and performing additional tasks.Meets turnaround time expectations as defined by management.QUALITY / SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Performs the six elements of competency for test systems used to generate patient test results in all areas assigned to work.Recognizes, investigates and correctly resolves test discrepancies. When problems arise, takes appropriate action to investigate and address and notifies management for follow-up.Compiles and reviews monthly quality control data, to include actions for variances identified, and provides proper documentation of all variations. Oversees section compliance by reviewing and responding to College of American Pathologists (CAP) Accreditation Checklists questions / findings. Completes online CAP Inspector Training.Develops plan, leads implementation, and performs data analysis of validations. Coordinates instrument maintenance and repairs.Independently handles resolution of complex problems and issues for section. Assists with policy review and submission.FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Adjusts work schedule to accommodate departmental / organizational needs. Appropriately utilizes the time recording system.Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Actively participates in inventory management.GROWTH / INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Generates and communicates new ideas and suggestions that will improve quality or service.Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development.This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business / job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. EDUCATION
Bachelor's degreeWORK EXPERIENCE
Three years of experience in a clinical laboratory as a Medical Laboratory Scientist / Medical Technologist or comparable role. May consider HM employee with two years of experience, to include a minimum of one year as a HM Medical Laboratory Scientist, and who demonstrates progressive responsibilities.LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - REQUIRED
Must have one of the following required certifications :Preferred - Certified as a Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Scientist, or categorical certification by Board of Certification (ASCP)Certified as a Medical Technologist by American Medical Technologists (AMT)Certified as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist by National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA)HLA only - One of the following is required :Medical Technologist, MT(ASCP) or Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP) certification
Certified by American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ABHI)
Microbiology only - One of the following is required :Medical Technologist, MT(ASCP) or Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP) certification
Microbiology, M(ASCP) certification
Clinical microbiology registry from American Society for Microbiology, RM(AAM)
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluationsSufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or securityAbility to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principlesExhibits strong interpersonal, teamwork and leadership skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workersAdapts to multiple ongoing priorities including organizing heavy workflow with minimal supervisionStrong attention to detail and ability to achieve and maintain accuracyAbility to work independently and execute above average technical skillsDemonstrates sound judgment and discretion to recognize problems ranging from simple to complex, identify causes and take corrective actionPossesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital / Laboratory Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and testing records and other related documentsAbility to recognize changes that are critical to patient careSUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ATTIRE
Uniform NoScrubs YesBusiness professional YesOther (department approved) NoON-CALL
Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. DIsaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.On CallTRAVEL
Travel specifications may vary by departmentMay require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area YesMay require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area YesCompany Profile :
Houston Methodist Specialty Physician Group is an integral part of Houston Methodist’s overall strategy to become one of the nation’s leading academic medical centers. Established as a nonprofit corporation certified by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, the Specialty Physician Group enables physicians to maintain autonomy with respect to clinical practice while growing their practice within an academic environment.
Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Equal employment opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Houston Methodist is firmly bound. Houston Methodist will not engage in discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment with Houston Methodist on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.
