Positions in this series perform, analyze, and interpret a variety of laboratory tests using patient specimens to provide data used in the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of human illness and disease.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:
- Perform, analyze, interpret, and report the results of a variety of tests in the areas of hematology, bacteriology, clinical chemistry, parasitology, urinalysis, coagulation, and microscopic examination in a laboratory setting under the supervision of a Medical Technologist or supervisor; perform phlebotomy procedures; receive test specimens to ensure specimen integrity working directly with patients.
- Assist in the development, performance, and maintenance of quality control and assurance programs; troubleshoot quality failures and malfunctioning equipment; continuously monitor and track test results for abnormalities and failures and take corrective action as needed.
- Orient, train, monitor, and direct the activities of staff members performing phlebotomy and laboratory testing; instruct clients regarding proper collection techniques and ensure guidelines are followed when specimen is submitted or rejected.
- Research and evaluate new technology and equipment and make recommendations regarding usefulness and effectiveness within the Health Department; assist in the development, revision, and maintenance of standard operating procedures for laboratory testing.
- Analyze and review federal, state and local laws, regulations, policies and procedures, OHSA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines, and other applicable laboratory laws in order to ensure compliance and maintain documentation;
- Provide technical assistance and consultation to clinical services regarding electronic ordering of laboratory tests, interpretation of test results, and proper handling of biohazardous and chemical materials; assist in the ordering of appropriate testing options.
- Calibrate, repair, and maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, solutions, and other laboratory supplies required for tests and procedures; manage instrument sterilization process; perform quality control checks on testing kits, strips, reagents, and equipment; purchase reagents, chemicals, and supplies from outside vendors in accordance with procurement rules and regulations.
- In addition to the above duties, the Medical Technologist will: independently perform and interpret results of a variety of testing procedures including diagnostic immunology, microbiology, and pathology in a centralized setting without patient interaction; provide results to medical providers and staff; maintain and monitor test logs; post test results to client records; recommend laboratory standard operating procedures; update maintenance logs for accurate tracking of equipment and repairs; prepare media, broths, chemical solutions, and reagents according to prescribed procedures; maintain documentation and safety regulations of laboratory activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
LEVEL AND TYPE OF WORK AND/OR SUPERVISION:
Medical Laboratory Technician
- Journey level
- Technical
- Perform the full range of duties, working independently, applying well-developed subject knowledge, and exercising judgment and initiative.
- Receive occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise.
- Fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit.
- Work is reviewed based on compliance, appropriateness, and effectiveness in meeting goals and deadlines.
- Receive general supervision from manager or staff.
- May exercise technical and functional supervision over staff.
Medical Technologist
- Journey level
- Professional
- Perform the full range of duties, working independently, applying well-developed subject knowledge, and exercising judgment and initiative.
- Receive occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise.
- Fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit.
- Work is reviewed based on compliance, appropriateness, and effectiveness in meeting goals and deadlines.
- Receive direction from manager or staff.
- May exercise technical and functional supervision over staff.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS GUIDELINES:
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. Requirements are determined at the time of recruitment based on responsibilities of the individual position and business needs of the department.
Medical Laboratory Technician
Training and experience for journey level, technical classifications are typically equivalent to an associate's degree and one (1) to four (4) years of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position. (Equivalency 3-6 years of qualifying training and/or experience).
Medical Technologist
Training and experience for journey level, professional classifications are typically equivalent to a bachelor's degree and one (1) to four (4) years of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position. (Equivalency 5-8 years of qualifying training and/or experience).
Depending upon assignment, candidates may be required to pass a criminal background check, have a valid driver license, and/or additional training, licenses, or certificates.
REQUIRED TRAINING, LICENSES, AND/OR CERTIFICATES:
Medical Laboratory Technician
- Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) through American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).
- CPR certification is required.
Medical Technologist
- Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) through American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).
- CPR certification is required.