Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist; MLS

Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist

The Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist duties include assisting the Supervisor in the proper operation of the laboratory and provide technical direction in analyzing specimens, performing cultures on specimens, performing quality control testing, troubleshooting equipment problems, performing instrument maintenance, processing patient specimens, and preparing in-house and referral patient data for reporting. To produce accurate test results for all patients. To provide technical direction to other employees, as directed.

The Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist demonstrates technical skills above that of a Senior Medical Lab Scientist, and performs the following essential responsibilities.

Leads the work of co-workers providing effective communication, direction, guidance and resources as appropriate.

Responsible for implementation and validation, under leadership of the laboratory supervisor, of new procedures, as well as new regulations introduced by governing bodies.

Performs high complexity tests that are authorized by the laboratory supervisor, manager or director and reviews testing performance as applicable.

Follows the laboratory's and NJH established policies and procedure manuals. Reviews and signs laboratory and personnel SOP on an annual basis. Net Learning is completed in a timely manner. Writes and reviews procedure manuals and documents. Review the work of peers to ensure compliance with CLIA personnel requirements, as directed.

Leads and maintains records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens. Reviews and coordinates proficiency testing. Conducts staff re-education as applicable.

Adheres to the laboratory's quality control policies, documenting all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed. Performs QC review as necessary. Immediately addresses any significant issues or trends observed with supervisor.

Follows set guidelines to troubleshoot/correct assay problems or instrument malfunctions. Performs maintenance and works with supervisor in troubleshooting QC or instrument problems. Identifies and leads in troubleshooting with peers and makes oneself available to be a resource for troubleshooting. Monitors data for trends and immediately reports any trends observed to supervisor.

Documents all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications. Performs root cause analysis of events as directed by supervisor.

Performs, observes, and reviews competencies as identified through the departmental competency program. Leads in competency performance and tracking of peers as directed.

Takes initiative to improve laboratory operations and performs extra projects of increasing complexity and skill and completes projects as directed and approved by the supervisor.

Attends continuing education programs sponsored by National Jewish, manufacturer in-services and/or professional society programs. Obtains at least 12 approved CEU credits per year including but not limited to the following: webinars, lunch and learn seminars, seminars, etc.

Is responsible for maintaining and ordering appropriate levels of reagents and consumables in the laboratory at all times.

Participates in preparation for inspections where required including revision of laboratory manuals and procedures. Identifies areas of risk in accordance with regulatory guidelines.

Functions as technical supervisor or general supervisor (per CLIA and CAP) as applicable.

Provides direction and guidance in testing operations. Applies their knowledge and expertise toward critically evaluating assays and assay results.

Transmits knowledge, best practices and key techniques to colleagues by being an active participant in training and developing training materials.

Performs as a back-up to staff absences and vacancies, as necessary.

Performs all other duties as assigned.

Accountability:
Accepts full responsibility for self and contribution as a team member; displays honesty and truthfulness; confronts problems quickly; displays a strong commitment to organizational success and inspires others to commit to goals; demonstrates a commitment to National Jewish Health.

Laboratory Knowledge:
Has thorough knowledge of disease states and diagnosis involved in laboratory testing methods; has thorough knowledge of clinical laboratory methodology and keeps abreast of developments in alternate methodology, emerging trends and new competitors.

Coaching and Teaching Others:
Providing timely guidance and feedback to help others strengthen specific knowledge/skill areas needed to accomplish a task or solve a problem.

Customer Focus:
Brokers customer and physician relationships with other complementary service providers or departments; actively seeks to understand customer, physician and patient needs beyond current assignment or project; proactively…