Medical lab technician

Department Overview

This position provides technical support in the Core Laboratory to complete laboratory testing for OHSU hospital and clinic patients. The incumbent will be a qualified Medical Laboratory Technician with generalist experience or equivalent capable of performing laboratory testing and associated activities needed to support the technical services provided by the Core Lab. Testing is performed in the following areas: Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, Coagulation, and limited Microbiology. This position does not require testing skills in Transfusion Service. Specimen processing, test performance, and result reporting is performed independently after appropriate training. Supervisory review of results is required in the case of unusual/complex results, procedural problems, or when dictated by policy or procedure. The person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude, which will best serve the clients of the department.

Function/Duties of Position

Performs testing in all sections of the Core Laboratory with accuracy, speed, and efficiency. Follows written procedures and policies. Prepares samples for testing. Determines acceptability of specimens and results. Repeats analysis as necessary to ensure accuracy. Reports test results via computer and telephone. Performs all computer functions using EPIC LIS and HIS software. Answers telephone requests for laboratory information. Calibrates, maintains and troubleshoots laboratory instruments and procedures. Performs and evaluates quality control data to determine functionality of instruments and procedures. Reviews questionable data with technologist.

Other Duties Assigned

Required Qualifications

Completion of a 2 year accredited program in Medical Laboratory Technician training plus MLT (ASCP) within 90 days of hire or AMT certification within 90 days of hire. Depending on date of training, different continuing education requirements will apply. OR Bachelor’s degree in a chemical or biological science and two years of Laboratory Technical Assistant training/experience performing standardized laboratory tests in the specialty area(s) in which high complexity testing will be performed; MLT (ASCP) or AMT certification preferred. Depending on date of training, different continuing education requirements will apply.

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• General knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment, materials and techniques, regulations and safety.
• Skill in handling of laboratory specimens, record keeping and laboratory equipment.
• Skill in identifying cells and cell morphology.
• Skill in using several different computer systems, including: word processing, dedicated LIS/HIS, etc.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions accurately, and operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment.
• Ability to work independently within established guidelines, to adjust to rapidly changing priorities, and apply problem-solving skills.
• Ability to demonstrate performance of job duties to trainees.
• Demonstrate personal integrity, efficiency, and ability to adjust to rapidly changing testing priorities.
• Ability to work in a multi-tasking environment and display technical skills at many different workstations throughout the laboratory.

Preferred Qualifications

Generalist experience in Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, Coagulation, and limited Microbiology within last two years preferred. Applicants with recent experience in only Chemistry and/or Hematology will be considered.

Additional Details

Positions in the laboratory and environs may require working flexible schedules including nights weekends and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation; working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature control problems in building.

Why apply to OHSU?

We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu