Clinical Lab Scientist

JOB SUMMARY:

• Clinical Laboratory Scientist perform clinical laboratory procedures on inpatients and outpatients, which include neonates, pediatric, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist performs testing and analysis of biological specimens in the Clinical Laboratory along with many related functions such as quality control, instrument maintenance and phlebotomy.

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:

• 1 year experience as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist preferred

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Medical Technology, or related science

• Participation in continuing education: Minimum 12 hours per year to meet licensure requirements

LICENSURES/CERTIFICATION:

• Current and Valid California Clinical Laboratory Scientist License

• Must successfully complete and maintain LA City Fire Card certification at the time of hire or within the first 30 days of employment

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (These are the essential job functions for this position. The essential functions of this job include, but may not be limited to those listed in this job description. Employees hired for this position must be able to perform the essential function of this job without imposing significant risk of substantial harm to the health or safety of themselves or others):

• Accurately performs tests submitted to the laboratory according to established procedures.

• Understands principles of tests and their relation to diagnosis and monitoring of health/disease states.

• Performs quality control procedures as indicated by the laboratory quality control protocol.

• Performs equipment maintenance as indicated by the supervising Clinical Laboratory Scientist.

• Recognizes and reports deviations in quality control and instrument functions to the supervising Clinical Laboratory Scientist.

• Troubleshoots equipment/test systems to the extent possible.

• Assists in phlebotomy, specimen processing, and answering phones as needed.

• Assists in training of new personnel as indicated by the supervising Clinical Laboratory Scientist.

• Possesses computer skills to utilize the LIS/HIS computer systems to manage and review workload, and inquire and generate patient reports.

• Able to prioritize workload; works to minimize turn around times.

• Current knowledge and skills appropriate to the age/type of patient population.

• Knowledgeable and sensitive to patient's rights in the delivery of care.

• Communicates in a clear, concise manner appropriate to the developmental stage of the patient.

• Maintains clinical skills specific to the age of the patient.

The following job accountabilities are not unique to this particular job but are common to all jobs at VPH:

Complies with VPH policies and procedures on customer satisfaction and service excellence. Demonstrates professionalism and cultural sensitivity in coordinating activities and communicating with all customers, peers, and the community at large. Conducts self in a professional, respectful and courteous manner during all interactions. Works effectively and collaboratively with others toward common goals.

Communicates accurately, honestly, supportively and in a timely manner with department and interdepartmental team members. Demonstrates effective business writing and oral communication skills, handwriting is clear and legible.

Participates in operational aspects of the department, and maintains/participates in performance improvement activities within the department.

Participates in all departmental specific training, Environment of Care (injury/illness prevention, fire/life safety, hazardous materials, emergency preparedness, utilities management, medical equipment management, safety and security management), infection control (standard precautions, TB Exposure Control Plan, Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan).

Demonstrates knowledge of and follows safety practices. Understands the importance of safety, including patient safety in the work place. Maintains a safe environment for self and others.

Actively participates in the Patient Safety Program, including event reporting. Identifies sentinel events/near misses and responds per defined organization processes. Participates in education activities and process implementation. Demonstrates advocacy for the patient/customer and appropriately acknowledges patients, customers and visitors.

The above statements reflect the essential functions considered necessary to describe the principle content of the job. They are not intended to be a complete statement of all work requirements or duties that may be inherent in the job.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Primarily an inside building/office environment, well lighted and ventilated, which may consist of multiple treatment and/or work sites.

• Fast and continuous work pace with variable workload.

• Frequent contact with staff and public under a variety of circumstances.Requires ability to communicate clearly (in English) verbally and in writing for effective communication with other staff members, physicians, vendors, community members, patients and patient families, employees and applicants of all socio-economic levels from a diverse cultural and ethnic population.

• Subject to many interruptions from multiple calls and inquiries and potentially emotional situations involving accidents, injuries, illness and/or death.

• Handles emergency/crisis situations in accordance with Hospital policy.

• Answers phones or pages; may carry a beeper/pager, and/or use a two-way radio.

• Occasional travel may be required.

• Potential risk of exposure to hazards from chemicals (toxic and non-toxic), flammable materials, gas or electrical or radiant energy or equipment with/without moving parts.

Salary Range: $51.08 - $61.20 per hour