Laboratory Technologist

The Pathology Department is seeking a Laboratory Technologist who under the direct supervision of the laboratory manager, this individual will perform routine specimen intake, accessioning, cell selection and extraction of nucleic acids from clinical specimens in accordance with established standards and procedures. This person will be expected to handle clinical human specimens appropriately and safely. They will be expected to acquire a level of knowledge to properly execute protocols, recognize correct instrument function and successful extraction, perform minor troubleshooting in the event of malfunction or failure, and perform Quality Control (QC) testing. They will participate in general laboratory duties including general lab housekeeping, inventory of reagents and supplies, and assistance with delivery/receipt of specimens.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Performs a variety of both routine and complex clinical laboratory protocols for specimen intake, accessioning, cell selection and extraction of nucleic acids from human specimens in accordance with established standards and procedures. Measures product concentrations.
• Documents protocol details and results. Completes required logs and supporting documents.
• Maintains and troubleshoots equipment, notifies supervisors or service personnel when more complex problems occur.
• Prepares reagents following defined formulas and procedures and performs QC testing as required.
• Performs related general duties such as ordering supplies, general lab housekeeping, and maintaining safety records.
• Strictly complies with patient care and confidentiality policies, HIPAA regulations.
• Performs miscellaneous related duties as assigned.

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Work produced is subject to precise measure of quantity and quality.
• Attention to detail is critical to the successful performance of this job as it directly affects patient diagnoses.
• Individual should have strong written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must have the ability to read and interpret direction, both oral and written, organize and prioritize work and follow through on assignments.
• Must be able to work successfully as part of a team in a high volume, dynamic laboratory.

Specific Physical Requirements

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, see and hear. May sit or stand for prolonged periods and occasionally required to walk. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, touch, feel, and type. May reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, or crouch. Prolonged vision requirements including viewing computer screen, paper reports/documents, charts and results.
• Visual acuity is required to distinguish fine gradation of color or structure and closely examine specimens microscopically. Must possess manual dexterity sufficient to work with small instruments and delicate equipment.
• Clinical laboratory environment - Exposure to toxins and infectious agents exist, but potential for personal injury or harm is minimized if established safety and health precautions are followed. Working in laboratory where there may be discomforts due to odors, noise, temperature fluctuations, and working around lab equipment.
• May transport equipment and supplies usually less than 40 pounds from one area to another. May be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with proper training, or precautions/lifting aides.
• In some areas work space is confined; therefore mobility may be difficult.
• Staff may be required to complete annual competency review, and must ensure compliance with Hospital Policy, Laboratory Policy & Procedure, Health, Safety & Environment regulations, and all applicable privacy & confidentiality laws/practices.
• Must be detail oriented, organized, and accurate.
• Many department laboratories operate 24/7 with schedules on day, evening, or night shift. Rotating schedules which may include weekend work and holiday assignment. Overtime possible when authorized/needed to meet business and patient needs.

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related field.

• One or more years of experience in a laboratory environment.

Classified Title: Laboratory Technologist
Role/Level/Range: ACRO37.5/02/CC
Starting Salary Range: $15.70 - $26.25 HRLY ($42,279 targeted; Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: M-F 8:30am-5:00pm
Exempt Status:Non-Exempt
Location:School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Pat Molecular Diagnostics Lab
Personnel area: School of Medicine