Medical Laboratory Technician

SUMMARY  

The Medical Laboratory Technician performs various laboratory procedures in assigned areas as licensed/certified. The position requires the exercise of independent judgment under general supervision. Work customarily involves analytical testing of blood and/or human biological specimens. Analytical laboratory testing generally requires a moderate to high degree of theoretical and practical knowledge and expertise in licensed area(s). Various pre-and post-analytical work processes are included in the work duties customarily performed. Actively participates in outstanding customer service and accepts responsibility in maintaining relationships that are equally respectful to all. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

• Performs various support activities to facilitate operation of assigned department or work area. Continually maintains workspaces in a neat, organized manner, and is properly supplied; properly stores and safeguards documentation and paperwork.
• Performs assigned pre-analytical activities related to laboratory testing, which may include general and analytical equipment maintenance, function checks and documentation; inventory control and supply stocking; biological specimen processing; cleaning and disinfection of selected or assigned laboratory equipment and spaces; quality control and calibration performance; and other pre-analytical activities.
• Performs all expected tests and analytical procedures for assigned department or work area efficiently and accurately, according to laboratory procedures, performance standards, and departmental competency standards. Participates in proficiency testing, consistently adhering to federal and state regulations as well as laboratory policies.
• Performs post-analytical activities related to laboratory testing, reporting results in accordance with laboratory procedures. Provides and acts on technical and support information related to the elements of laboratory testing for all age groups.
• Participates in, and has knowledge of, laboratory Performance Improvement activities, including evaluation of new equipment and/or procedures or methods.
• Adheres to the Laboratory Compliance Plan and to all rules and regulations of all applicable local, state, and federal agencies and accrediting bodies; protects confidentiality of patient information and results at all times.
• Follows appropriate safety policies including the appropriate use of PPE, handwashing, and hazardous chemical handling. Demonstrates understanding and adheres to Chemical Hygiene plan.  Employee job duties may include transport of hazardous waste from the point of generation to a designated secure storage area; employee will be required to complete initial training (prior to handling hazardous waste) and refresher training to include proper handling and transport of hazardous waste, and proper selection, use and disposal of personal protective equipment.
• Assists in new employee training and orientation.
• Performs other duties as assigned or directed to ensure the smooth operation of the department or work area. 

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

• Education & Experience
  1. Associate’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or an equivalent term OR 2 years post-secondary education with a concentration in the aforementioned subject matters, Chemical Science or Biologic Science or related field.
  2. One year of Clinical Lab experience preferred.
• Licenses
  • Certification from a recognized national body, such as the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or an equivalent organization is required.
  • Florida Medical Technician license is required. 
• Skills/Abilities
  1. Technical skills and aptitudes related to the laboratory testing, procedures and processes performed in department or work area assigned.
  2. Follows and ensures adherence of staff, to the Laboratory Compliance Plan and to all rules and regulations of all applicable local, state, and federal agencies and accrediting bodies; always protects confidentiality of patient information and results.
  3. Ability to work independently and adapt to varying priorities, including directing workflow with minimal supervision.
  4. Ability to maintain equipment/records and perform quality assessment activities.
  5. Ability to educate and train new staff in medical laboratory settings.
  6. Able to effectively communicate in verbal and written English with staff, partners and customers of varied backgrounds in a respectful, effective, and professional manner.
  7. Basic computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office. Ability to operate computer systems to maintain patient documentation, testing records, and other related documents. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled, must be able to perform the essential job specific functions (listed within each job specific responsibility) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by the organization on a case-by-case basis. If the requirement is not marked, then the standard is generally considered not applicable.