Medical Laboratory Scientist
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Vitalant is where donors, talent and innovation meet to save and improve lives. We are the nation’s largest independent, nonprofit blood services provider exclusively focused on providing lifesaving blood and comprehensive transfusion medicine services for about 900 hospitals and their patients across the U.S.
Currently we have 27 Blood Bank STAT labs located throughout the Pittsburgh area. This is a great opportunity to become a blood bank specialist and advance with our company. New graduates are welcomed! We seek team members who want to make a difference in people’s lives while furthering their careers.
PRIMARY PURPOSE:
Under minimal supervision, this position is responsible for performing routine testing of biological specimens and reviewing test results. This position is also responsible for providing skilled technical support in the laboratory.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Performs all assigned duties in compliance with internal SOPs and external regulations. Brings compliance issues to the attention of management.
Provide value for the customer by supporting departmental and individual goal achievement, effective communications, process improvement and compliance.
Demonstrate respect for all team members by seeking input on processes and problem solving, communicating key information, collaborative teamwork and supporting a culture of diversity.
Performs high complexity testing (e.g., stem cell processing, CBC differentials, antigen screens, antibody ID, and cross match).
Maintains accurate records and documentation.
Assists in investigative studies, as directed.
Participates in quality control, preventive maintenance, and validations.
Performs moderate complexity testing in the lab for quality control of components, single donor platelet yields, automated red cell technology problems, etc., as requested.
Provides technical support/liaison to hospital transfusion services.
Resolves problems between departments that prevent production and distribution of blood components.
Preparation of blood products/components including irradiation, pooling.
Participates in inventory management including blood product issuing.
Performs final record review.
Assists with training.
Performs preventive maintenance on equipment. Notifies appropriate personnel if additional service is needed.
Performs all other duties, at the discretion of management, as assigned.
Qualifications - External
REQUIREMENTS:
Knowledge/Education
Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, biological, medical technology or clinical laboratory science required or equivalent education, training and/or experience with certification as a Medical Technologist by a recognized certifying agency.
Medical Laboratory Technician with Associates degree with experience in high complexity testing and meets state licensure defined criteria.
Licenses/Certifications
Certification as a Medical Technologist by a recognized certifying agency required (or must receive certification within 12months).
State licensure (as required by regulations).
Experience
0-2 years of relevant laboratory experience meeting Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist educational requirements OR
5 years or more experience for the Medical Laboratory Technician.
Skills/Abilities
Must be able to stand for long periods of time, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs.
Must be detail oriented and possess strong communication, organization, analytical, and decision making skills and be able to comprehend and apply clinical laboratory procedures and theory.
Must be able to maintain donor, patient and employee confidentiality.
Must possess basic keyboarding skills and the ability to handle and operate laboratory equipment.