Medical Technologist - II

JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct pretransfusion testing (e.g., blood typing, cross-matching, antibody screening) to ensure compatibility.
• Perform diagnostic testing, including infectious disease marker testing, using manual and automated methodologies.
• Evaluate and interpret test results to ensure accuracy and report discrepancies promptly.
• Prepare and label blood products for transfusion, including red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate, ensuring proper storage and transport conditions.
• Perform irradiation of blood products as needed.
• Process and test donor blood to produce safe and effective blood components.
• Manage inventory levels of blood and blood products to meet operational needs and avoid shortages.
• Coordinate shipments of blood products to and from healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and consignment locations.
• Communicate with hospital staff to resolve urgent transfusion-related requests or product discrepancies.
• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and automated systems to ensure optimal performance.
• Maintain detailed logs for all equipment, maintenance and performance checks.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of laboratory activities, test results, and product distribution in compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
• Utilize laboratory information systems (LIS) to input, retrieve, and analyze data efficiently.
• Ensure proper chain-of-custody documentation for all blood products.
• Provide timely and professional communication with donors, healthcare providers, and team members regarding blood product availability and testing results.
• Assist in training and mentoring new staff, interns, and laboratory students.
• Participate in departmental meetings and cross-functional collaborations to improve laboratory workflows and processes.
• Respond promptly to emergency situations, including massive transfusion protocols or urgent cross-matching requests.
• Remain available for on-call rotations and flexible scheduling, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by operational needs.
• Adhere to strict cGMP procedures to ensure quality and regulatory compliance.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Performs other related duties as necessary to support Suncoast Blood Centers' mission, vision, and values.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related scientific field from an accredited institution.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years in a clinical laboratory setting with hands-on experience in blood banking.

Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in manual and automated blood banking techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to work in high-pressure situations and meet strict deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interactions with healthcare professionals and team members.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Active Florida Clinical Laboratory Technologist License in the appropriate specialty area(s).
• Valid Florida Driver’s License with a clean driving record and reliable transportation.
• A proper Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) may be required if travel is included with the position.

LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS

• Ensure adherence to Florida’s labor laws, including wage and hour regulations, anti-discrimination laws, and workplace safety standards.
• Compliance with HIPAA and Florida privacy laws, ensuring all sensitive donor information is handled securely.
• Successful completion of background check and drug testing as per the Florida Drug-Free Workplace Act.
• Compliance with all SunCoast Blood Centers policies, procedures, and strict cGMP guidelines.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 60 lbs frequently.
• Perform tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as pipetting, keyboarding, and assembling testing kits.
• Ability to stand, walk, kneel, and perform laboratory tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to travel to off-site locations as needed.
• May need to come in for an on-call assignment during off hours.

Environmental Requirements:

• Exposure to varying environmental conditions, including blood-borne pathogens and hazardous chemicals.
• Adherence to PPE requirements, including gloves, lab coats, and eye protection, is mandatory.
• Laboratory environment with strict temperature and humidity controls.
• Frequent interaction with donors, healthcare professionals, and external vendors.
• Rotating shifts and on-call availability required.