Medical Laboratory Scientist

Department Overview

This position provides technical support in the Core Laboratory to complete laboratory testing for OHSU hospital and clinic patients.  The incumbent will be a qualified Medical Laboratory Scientist with generalist experience or equivalent capable of performing laboratory testing and associated activities needed to support the technical services provided by the Core Lab.  Testing is performed in the following areas: Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, Coagulation, and limited Microbiology.  This position does not require testing skills in Transfusion Service.  Specimen processing, test performance, and result reporting is performed independently after appropriate training.  Supervisor or director review of results is required in situations dictated by policy or procedures.  The person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude, which will best serve the clients of the department.

Function/Duties of Position

• Performs testing in all sections of the Core Laboratory with accuracy, speed, and efficiency, using Sysmex XN 9000, ABL, Beckman AU700 and DxI instruments, Siemens Centaur, ACL TOP 750 instrumentation, and Iris. 
  • Follows written procedures and policies.  
• Prepares samples for testing.  Determines acceptability of specimens and results.  Repeats analysis as necessary to insure accuracy. Reports test results via computer and telephone.
• Performs all computer functions using EPIC software.
• Answers telephone requests for laboratory information.
• Calibrates, maintains and troubleshoots laboratory instruments and procedures. 
• Trains new employees, students and residents.
• Performs and evaluates quality control data to determine functionality of instruments and procedures.  Reviews questionable data with technical coordinator.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science or Medical Laboratory Science which includes a clinical lab externship;
  • Current certification as MT (ASCP), or MLS (ASCP) within 90 days of hire.
    • Current certification and credential maintenance must be maintained for individuals who were certified after January 1, 2004.
• OR Completion of a 2 year accredited Medical Laboratory Technician program;
  • Plus MLT (ASCP) or equivalent certification within 90 days of hire;
  • And 4 years of experience in a clinical laboratory.
    • Certification as MT (ASCP) or MLS (ASCP) or by AMT preferred.
    • Current certification and credential maintenance must be maintained for individuals who were certified after January 1, 2004.
• OR Bachelor's degree in a Chemical or Biological field;
  • and four years experience as a Medical Laboratory Technician in a clinical laboratory performing testing and related tasks;
  • Certification as MT (ASCP) or MLS (ASCP) or by AMT preferred.
    • Current certification and credential maintenance must be maintained for individuals who were certified after January 1, 2004.

Note: experience in a specialty lab area will only qualify candidate to work in that specialty area.

 

• General knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment, materials and techniques, regulations and safety.
• Skill in handling of laboratory specimens, record keeping and laboratory equipment.
• Skill in identifying cells and cell morphology.
• Skill in using several different computer systems, including: word processing, dedicated LIS/HIS, etc.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions accurately, and operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment.
• Ability to work independently within established guidelines, to adjust to rapidly changing priorities, and apply problem-solving skills.
• Ability to demonstrate performance of job duties to trainees.
• Demonstrate personal integrity, efficiency, and ability to adjust to rapidly changing testing priorities.
• Ability to work in a multi-tasking environment and display technical skills at many different workstations throughout the laboratory.

Preferred Qualifications

• Generalist experience in Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, Coagulation, and limited Microbiology within last two years preferred. 
• Applicants with recent experience in only Chemistry and/or Hematology will be considered. 
• MLS certification is preferred.

Additional Details

Environment, Physical Demands & Equipment Usage

 

Positions in the laboratory and environs may require working flexible schedules including nights weekends and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation; working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature control problems in building.

 

Positions in laboratory departments require the ability to carry and lift up to 30 lbs.; ability to stand or sit for 4-8 hours depending on the tasks assigned; ability to bend, reach, and carry as required for assigned tasks; ability to utilize simple and complicated laboratory equipment and computers; ability to utilize multi-line phones, pagers, dictation equipment, and office equipment.

All are welcome

Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu. As an organization devoted to the health and well-being of people in Oregon and beyond, OHSU requires its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.