Laboratory Technician III

Laboratory Technician III

Come work in an environment where we truly value and respect those we serve and believe in the mission that all people can achieve a higher level of wellness and independence.

The state supported living centers serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are medically fragile or who have behavioral problems. The centers provide campus-based direct services and supports at 13 centers located throughout the state. Learn About Our State Supported Living Centers

The state of Texas offers many benefits to employees. HHSC is a qualifying organization for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which forgives the remaining balance on college student Direct Loans after making 120 qualifying monthly payments. We also offer excellent health benefits, a lifetime monthly retirement annuityas well as 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

If you are looking for a place to work where you can establish a career that is filled with purpose, this is the job for you!

The Laboratory Technician III performs advanced (senior level) laboratory work at the State Supported Living Center (SSLC). Performs phlebotomy procedures and prepares blood specimens for study by a reference laboratory.

Prepares other biological specimens for study by a reference laboratory.

Performs routine X-ray work including exposing and processing X-ray film. Performs basic electrocardiogram studies. Reviews results and prepares required reports.

Completes required forms and data entry. Coordinates care with dental lab, nursing staff, Primary Care Providers (PCP), and other clerical and administrative staff to ensure efficiency of operations and high quality of care toward individuals. Designs methods for completing work effectively given the specific complex needs and challenges of the individuals served.

Maintains the integrity of the lab/worksite and instructs other on proper procedures and requirements. Works under the supervision of a physician and the administrative direction of the clinic supervisor. Works under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement.

Essential Job Functions:

Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

Performs phlebotomy procedures effectively as ordered by the PCP. Prepares necessary supplies, communicates reassuring with the individual in the manner prescribed by his/her individualized plan, positions the individual in accordance with his/her physical needs, and performs the blood draw.

Disposes of the supplies in accordance with safety protocols. Communicates with the home staff and other identifies staff regarding any issues or complications. Prepares the blood specimens for study by a reference laboratory.

Prepares other biological specimens for study by a reference laboratory in accordance with standardized procedures and training. Fixes, labels, document and maintains specimens properly.

Performs routine X-ray work including carefully positioning individuals using creativity to meet their physical needs. Communicates with individuals and staff to reassure them throughout the process.

Adjusts as necessary to meet the needs of the individual. Exposes and processes X-ray film in accordance with training and established protocols. Provides results to the PCP and maintains/stores the film as required.

Performs basic electrocardiogram studies. Ensures the individual is properly prepared order to place electrodes correctly, preserving dignity and respect during the process. Documents and informs the PCP of the result.

Reviews results and prepares required reports.

Completes required forms and data entry including documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR). Provides written communication of venipuncture so that home staff will know when the resident has come to the lab for a blood draw.

Coordinates care with dental lab, nursing staff, Primary Care Providers (PCP), and others to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of the medical department. Designs and shares methods for completing work effectively given the specific complex needs and challenges of the individuals served.

Attends and participates in required staff meeting.

Maintains the integrity of the lab/worksite by keeping work areas clean, well-organized and by ensuring confidentiality in accordance with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Instructs others on proper procedures and requirements as needed and communicates any issue to the designated supervisor.

Performs clerical and administrative functions including filing, answering phones, preparing paperwork for the next day, and scheduling next day draws with staff to ensure efficiency of operations.

Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of lab equipment to perform Hemoglobin A1C test, Strep, Flu, Coagulation studies, and Urinalysis Dipstick tests,

Knowledge of using a centrifuge for spinning specimens to prepare for transport to outside testing facilities,

Knowledge of how to operate a Digital X-ray machine, EKG machine.

Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and its application in the work site.

Skill in the use of basic office equipment.

Skill in lab and blood draws.

Skill in performing technical aspects of laboratory, radiology, and electrocardiogram procedures.

Skill in the use of a computer and applicable software including Word, Excel, and MS Outlook, and basic office equipment.

Ability to communicate with individuals with complex developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with medical professionals.

Ability to write reports and utilize an Electronic Health Record (EHR).

Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Phlebotomy certification preferred.

Must be willing to take the non-certified radiological technician program.

Initial Selection Criteria:

Experience performing phlebotomy, X-ray work, electrocardiogram studies or other types of laboratory work.

Experience working with people who have intellectual/development disabilities or other conditions which make performing laboratory work challenging is preferred.

Additional Information:

Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aide, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct and HHS OIG List of Excluded Individuals/Entities. Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.

All State Supported Living Center Employees are subject to Random Drug Testing.

Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility.

MOS Code:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include 18D, 68K,68S, HM, HN, 870, and HS: For more information see the Texas State Auditor's Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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