Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)

Location: Linville, North Carolina | PRN | Variable Shifts

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll play a critical role in patient care by performing laboratory testing that supports accurate diagnosis and treatment decisions. You’ll work in a collaborative healthcare environment that values precision, teamwork, and professional growth while helping deliver exceptional care to the communities we serve.

• Compensation: Compensation is commensurate upon education, experience, certification, and internal equity starting at $28.96 per hour.
• Schedule: Full-time with variable shifts, including weekends and holidays as needed
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, retirement with employer match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts

What You’ll Do as an MLS / MLT

• Perform chemical, hematologic, microscopic, and serological testing on patient specimens
• Collect, label, process, and analyze laboratory specimens following established protocols and safety standards
• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and automated analyzers
• Review and report accurate laboratory results to physicians and healthcare teams in a timely manner
• Follow laboratory quality control and quality assurance procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory standards
• Assist with phlebotomy and specimen collection as needed
• Maintain accurate documentation and records within laboratory systems
• Collaborate effectively with laboratory staff, nursing teams, physicians, and other healthcare professionals
• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and adherence to UNC Health Appalachian’s Mission, Vision, and Values

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related science field required
• Graduation from an accredited laboratory science program required

Experience

• Clinical laboratory training experience through accredited laboratory science or medical technology programs required
• Previous clinical laboratory experience preferred

Licenses/Certifications

• MLS certification through an accredited testing agency preferred but not required
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required at time of hire

Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to safely and accurately process laboratory specimens and perform testing procedures
• Knowledge of laboratory safety, quality control, and regulatory standards
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and computer systems efficiently
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to exceptional customer service and patient-centered care

Physical & Work Environment

• Continuous standing and walking for extended periods throughout shifts
• Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling greater than 50 lbs
• Frequent bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, and repetitive hand movements
• Frequent exposure to bloodborne pathogens, laboratory reagents, chemicals, and biological specimens
• Exposure to electrical/mechanical laboratory equipment and automated analyzers
• Frequent close eye work and detailed specimen analysis
• Subject to irregular schedules including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency situations
• Exposure to ionizing/non-ionizing radiation including x-ray and microwave exposure may occur

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Advance your laboratory career through continuing education, certification support, and professional development opportunities
• Impactful Work: Help provide timely, accurate diagnostic testing that directly impacts patient outcomes and safety
• Community & Lifestyle: Enjoy life in Boone, North Carolina — a vibrant mountain community known for outdoor recreation, culture, and quality of life
• Inclusive Culture: Join a supportive healthcare system committed to teamwork, diversity, and employee well-being

Ready to make a difference through laboratory excellence?
Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and help deliver exceptional care to the communities we proudly serve.

About UNC Health Appalachian
It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.” 

About UNC Health 
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org. 

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us. 

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu. 

Salary : $29