Clinical Lab Scientist

Status: Per Diem

Schedule: At needs basis

*Must be comfortable to support any of our STAT Lab locations based on operational needs. We have STAT Labs located in: Westfield, Livingston, Berkeley Heights, Florham Park, and Clifton New Jersey

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Demonstrates & documents competencies annually based on testing performed in the laboratory. Adheres to all established CAP, HIPAA, OSHA and laboratory safety requirements.

• Processes/evaluates patient specimens in accordance with SOP, including reference lab specimens. Resolves issues with specimens that are time/temperature sensitive. Escalate if needed.

• Performs daily temperature and humidity checks for room, refrigerators, freezers, incubators, and/or water baths.

• Performs routine instrument maintenance following manufacturer’s specifications (including startup and shut down) and documents appropriately.

• Corrects basic instrument malfunctions and documents them. Communicates instrumentation status to appropriate staff members and notifies vendor to schedule service calls.

• Performs instrument QC and calibrations following manufacturer's specifications.

• Processes monthly QC documents as requested by supervisor/ manager.

• Utilizes standard quality control practices in decision making to ensure reliable testing and proper regulatory compliance.

• Performs proficiency testing in a manner and time frame that is consistent with good laboratory practice. Receives >=80% on all graded proficiencies.

• Performs and approves specimen testing using sound judgment and evaluation. Releases results in accordance with departmental policy.

• Performs Stat and routine orders within established time frames.

• Communicates and document critical values according to SOP.

• Checks pending logs and endorses appropriately.

• Monitors inventory levels and inform designated personnel as needed.

• Demonstrates competence by utilizing LIS for all applicable functions to perform job duties, including downtime procedures.

• Ensures clean and orderly workstation and restocked with necessary supplies.

• Adapts work schedule to meet emergency staffing needs.

• Performs staff training as requested by supervisor/manager.

• Perform and assist with validations for new laboratory testing to increase laboratory revenues.

• Performs and reads blood smears (morphology and immature cells), body fluids, and urine sediments.

• Performs special coagulation test.

• Rotation within the core lab is required in the evening and night shift.

• Other job duties as required.

Physical Job Requirements

• Endurance (e.g. continuous typing, prolonged standing/bending, walking lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling)

• Work requires sitting, standing, and / or walking for periods of up to eight hours.

• Dexterity of hands and fingers

• Physical strength to lift heavy objects, carts, or items, taking frequency and weight into consideration.

• The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects: Objects 1 to 10 pounds.

• Physical mobility, which includes movement from place to place on the job, taking distance and speed into account.

• Balance is maintained during climbing, bending and/or reaching.

• Physical agility, which includes the ability to maneuver the body while in place.

• Ability to handle the physical requirements of the position.

Environmental Risks:

• Chemicals, Sharps, Latex, Chemotherapy and Fumes

• Loud noises

• Vibration

• Extreme temperatures

• Confined spaces

• Allergens:  dust, mold and/or pollen

• Magnetic fields

• Radiation

• Combative patients/visitors

Blood-borne Pathogen:

• Exposure to infectious hazards, blood, body fluids, non-intact skin or tissue specimens.

• Contact with patients or patient specimens is possible.

• Unplanned or unexpected exposure.

• Exposure to infectious hazards, blood, and other body fluids.

Qualifications:

• Associates degree required. Associates or Bachelor's degree in Clinical Laboratory Science preferred.

• ASCP or equivalent certification is preferred.

• 0-1 years’ experience. 2-4 years preferred.

• Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing.

• Ability to perform diversified duties within specified time limitations required.

• Ability to organize, problem solve, set priorities, and use critical thinking skills required.

• Strong customer service skills required.

• Ability to be a team player required.

• Basic medical laboratory skills required.

• Knowledge of QA principles preferred. 

• Experience with Standard Office Equipment (Phone, Fax, Copy Machine, Scanner, Email/Voice Mail) preferred.

• Experience with Standard Office Technology in a Window based environment preferred.

• Experience with Medical Laboratory Instruments preferred.

• Experience with Laboratory Computer Information System preferred.

Travel:

• Travel to satellite locations as needed