Job DescriptionUnder supervision of a CLIA General Supervisor, the Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist performs specimen processing, CLIA high/moderate complexity testing, and reports accurate results. Responsibilities include following procedures, troubleshooting, maintaining quality control, ensuring regulatory compliance, and consulting with various teams to support patient care and workflow efficiency.
- Specimen Processing and Accessioning: Evaluates specimens and test orders for acceptability and accepts or rejects according to established guidelines.
- Specimen Testing: Follows approved standard operating procedures.
- Result Reporting: Exhibits technical judgment by correlating test results with diagnosis and previous results as applicable. Reviews final reports for accuracy.
- Computer Skills: Demonstrates proficiency in the use of HIS and LIS software systems in all job-related functions.
- Equipment Operation: Operates and maintains all technical equipment according to approved standard operating procedures.
- Verification &Validation: Performs verification and validation of laboratory assays and instrumentation to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards prior to clinical implementation.
- Quality Control: Follows quality control policies, documents all related activities, and maintains records of instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance. Analyzes, reviews results, monitors compliance with the Quality Control Plan standard operating procedures.
- Proficiency Testing: Assist with proficiency testing distribution and submission, ensuring samples are treated the same as patient samples. Participate in proficiency testing investigations.
- Team Member Management: Effectively leads and coaches laboratory team members by fostering a collaborative work environment, ensuring competency through training and education. Communicates effectively through the adherence of the PRIDE (Purpose, Respect, Innovation, Diversity & Inclusion, Extraordinary Care) values. Provides feedback on performance management. May assist with team members scheduling.
- Inventory Management: Maintains quantities and reviews expiration dates of all supplies.
- Safety: Demonstrates knowledge and practice of all Atlantic Health and department safety procedures.
QualificationsMust meet the CLIA personnel requirements for High Complexity testing:
• MD or DO with a current medical license, OR
• Doctoral degree in clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical or biological science, OR
• Master's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical, or biological science, OR
• Bachelor's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical or biological, OR
• Associate degree in chemical, physical or biological science or medical laboratory or equivalent education and training
• Foreign education credentials require US equivalency documentation by an AHS approved agency.
• Minimum one (1) year of high complexity lab experience with an additional two (2) years of high complexity lab experience preferred
ASCP, AMT or defined equivalent preferred
• Organized: Maintains a structured approach to tasks and keeps workspaces orderly.
• Detail-oriented: Ensures accuracy and consistency in daily responsibilities.
• Physically capable: Able to perform job duties that require physical effort.
• Effective communicator: Communicates clearly and professionally with team members and other departments.
• Problem-solver: Demonstrated ability to independently identify and analyze problems, develop clear and concise solutions, and complete projects efficiently.
• Adaptable: Adjusts effectively to shifting priorities and workplace needs.
About the TeamAt Atlantic Health System, we have skilled medical technicians who can collect blood for diagnostic and screening purposes in a family-friendly environment. Laboratories are open any time during regular business hours. COVID-19 testing is available at some Atlantic Health System outpatient laboratories and centers, as well as a sensory room in the Atlantic Health Children's Specialty Center at Morristown offers a calming space to help make your family's lab visit a caring and compassionate experience.
