Medical Lab Scientist Spclst – FT/Nights

Houston, Texas
Houston Methodist Hospital

JOB SUMMARY

At Houston Methodist, the Medical Laboratory Scientist Specialist position is responsible for performing both routine and complex analyses at a subject matter expert level, which necessitates knowledge of laboratory techniques, principles, and equipment and their interrelationship. This position exercises good judgment by using critical thinking skills and takes an active role in problem solving for the laboratory section. The Medical Laboratory Scientist Specialist also ensures that specimens are accessioned and processed expeditiously in order to deliver quality laboratory results in an effective and cost efficient manner. Additional responsibilities include serving as a role model and preceptor for staff and leading quality control initiatives for section.

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Job responsibilities labeled EF capture those duties that are essential functions of the job.

PEOPLE – 20%

1. Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner. (EF)
2. Orients, guides and mentors team members and students, to help build confidence and competency in skills, knowledge and abilities. Administers and grades staff competency assessments. (EF)
3. Participates in laboratory and organization wide initiatives. (EF)

SERVICE – 25%

1. Performs qualitative and quantitative tests and examination using various analyzers and/or manual methods. (EF)
2. Sets pace for workload and troubleshoots workflow issues for laboratory section. Utilizes all available work time by assisting others and performing additional tasks. (EF)
3. Meets turnaround time expectations as defined by management. (EF)

QUALITY/SAFETY – 35%

1. Performs the six elements of competency for test systems used to generate patient test results in all areas assigned to work. (EF)
2. Recognizes, investigates and correctly resolves test discrepancies. When problems arise, takes appropriate action to investigate and address and notifies management for follow-up. (EF)
3. Compiles and reviews monthly quality control data, to include actions for variances identified, and provides proper documentation of all variations. Oversees section compliance by reviewing and responding to College of American Pathologists (CAP) Accreditation Checklists questions/ findings. Completes online CAP Inspector Training. (EF)
4. Develops plan, leads implementation, and performs data analysis of validations. Coordinates instrument maintenance and repairs. (EF)
5. Independently handles resolution of complex problems and issues for section. Assists with policy review and submission. (EF)

FINANCE – 10%

1. Adjusts work schedule to accommodate departmental/organizational needs. Appropriately utilizes the time recording system. (EF)
2. Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Actively participates in inventory management. (EF)

GROWTH/INNOVATION – 10%

1. Generates and communicates new ideas and suggestions that will improve quality or service. (EF)
2. Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development. (EF)

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

o Bachelor’s degree

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

o Three years of experience in a clinical laboratory as a Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist or comparable role

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED

o Must have one of the following required certifications:

o Preferred – Certified as a Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Scientist, or categorical certification by Board of Certification (ASCP)

o Certified as a Medical Technologist by American Medical Technologists (AMT)

o Certified as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist by National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA)

o HLA only – One of the following is required:

– Medical Technologist, MT(ASCP) or Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP) certification

– Certified by American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ABHI)

o Microbiology only – One of the following is required:

– Medical Technologist, MT(ASCP) or Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP) certification

– Microbiology, M(ASCP) certification

– Clinical microbiology registry from American Society for Microbiology, RM(AAM)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

o Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations

o Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security

o Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles

o Exhibits strong interpersonal, teamwork and leadership skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers

o Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities including organizing heavy workflow with minimal supervision

o Strong attention to detail and ability to achieve and maintain accuracy

o Ability to work independently and execute above average technical skills

o Demonstrates sound judgment and discretion to recognize problems ranging from simple to complex, identify causes and take corrective action

o Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital/Laboratory Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and testing records and other related documents

o Ability to recognize changes that are critical to patient care

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Work Attire Yes/No

Uniform No

Scrubs Yes

Business professional Yes

Other (dept approved) No

On-Call Yes, as required by entity/department for operational need

Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Event, etc) regardless of selection above.

Travel

May require travel within Yes

Houston Metropolitan area

May require travel outside Yes

of Houston Metropolitan area

Travel specifications may vary by department.

Please note any other special considerations to this job:

Company Profile:

Since its founding in 1919, Houston Methodist Hospital has earned worldwide recognition. Houston Methodist Hospital is affiliated with the Weill Medical College of Cornell University and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, one of the nation’s leading centers for medical education and research. In 2022, U.S. News & World Report named Houston Methodist Hospital to its prestigious Honor Roll for the sixth time. Also, in this year’s rankings, Houston Methodist Hospital was named the No. 1 hospital in Texas for the 11th year in a row. Houston Methodist Hospital directs millions of research dollars into patient care and offers the latest innovations in medical, surgical and diagnostic techniques. With 946 operating beds, 85 operating rooms and nearly 8,500 employees, Houston Methodist Hospital offers complete care for patients from around the world.