Clinical Lab Scientist

Job Summary:

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) is a professional state licensed position within the hospital clinical laboratory. CLS at NIHD must be able to work in all areas of the laboratory – Chemistry, Hematology/Coagulation, Serology, Transfusion Service/Blood Bank, and Microbiology, performing high-complexity testing. A CLS is expected to maintain the highest degree of confidentiality in all areas involving patients and their related hospital business.   

Job Relationships:

1. Directly responsible to the Laboratory Services Manager
2. This position works closely with all laboratory staff 

Occupational Hazards:

Works in the general hospital setting. May be exposed to blood, body fluids, or tissues as well as patients in varying stages of infectious states.  

Samples of Duties:

The information listed below is meant to serve as samples of job duties and responsibilities for positions in this classification. This list is neither inclusive nor exclusive, but indicative of several types of duties performed. 

1. Assesses quality and integrity of clinical specimens for testing
2. Performs CLIA waived, moderate, and high-complexity testing and reports results according to SOP
3. Participates in Proficiency Testing and maintains assigned competency assessments
4. Performs and reviews Quality Control (QC), performs instrument maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting. Solves problems both independently and collaboratively
5. Notifies and collaborates with Laboratory section Leads, Laboratory Services Manager, and/or Laboratory Medical Director when variances occur; completes variance reports when necessary
6. Understands and follows all policies and procedures within scope of assigned work, infection prevention, safety, and regulatory requirements
7. Ensures reagents and quality control materials are within expiry and are stored appropriately
8. Performs phlebotomy and maintains Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
9. Participates in training and competency assessment of other laboratory personnel when assigned
10. Maintains current State of California Clinical Laboratory Scientist licensure 
11. Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• The Mission, Vision, and Values of Northern Inyo Healthcare District; 
• NIHD policies and procedures, including Compliance Program, Code of Conduct, and Confidentiality standards;
• NIHD safety policies and procedures, including the Rainbow Chart, Employee Health, and Infection Prevention standards;

Skills/Abilities to:

• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with NIHD staff and the public;
• Establish and maintain professional working relationships with NIHD staff at all levels as well as the public;
• Develop and maintain a high degree of maturity, integrity, and good judgement.

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience:

            Completion of Medical Laboratory Science training program including clinical internship

Education: 

Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, physical, or biological science or medical technology (must meet CLIA requirements for high complexity testing)

Certification: 

Valid California Clinical Laboratory Scientist License (Generalist)

Preferred: 

Experience:

1 year experience as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist