Medical Laboratory Scientist II​/Blood Bank Specialist * Experienced

Up to $5K Sign on Bonus for Experienced Medical Laboratory Scientist II / Blood Bank Specialist.

Northwestern Medical Center (NMC) is recruiting a Medical Laboratory Scientist II / Blood Bank Specialist in our Laboratory. The position is full-time (80 hours bi-weekly), primarily days with up to two weekends per month. We offer a generous benefits package and prioritize employee well-being and work-life balance.

Hiring Range: $31.04 - $45.27

The Medical Laboratory Scientist II (Section Specialist) functions as a generalist across all laboratory sections while providing advanced technical and administrative oversight for an assigned area (Blood Bank). Responsibilities include specimen processing, diagnostic testing, instrument maintenance, quality control, and staff training. Specialized duties include test development and validation, policy/procedure maintenance, proficiency testing coordination, inventory management, and regulatory compliance. The MLSII evaluates quality data, implements corrective actions, troubleshoots complex issues, and drives process improvements to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and patient safety, in alignment with the Laboratory’s Quality Management Plan and accreditation standards.

Flexibility is required for varied shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call coverage.

• Process specimens according to written procedures and conduct testing across all laboratory sections, including specialized and advanced procedures.
• Provide administrative oversight for an assigned area (Blood Bank) and support workflow across sections to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Monitor pending logs, resolve outstanding tests promptly, and assist other sections during workload fluctuations.
• Assist with test development, validation, policy/procedure maintenance, proficiency testing coordination, inventory management, and regulatory compliance.
• Evaluate QC/QA/PM data, implement corrective actions, troubleshoot complex issues, and drive process improvements.
• Coordinate proficiency testing and document corrective actions; complete proficiency test reports within established timelines.
• Provide technical guidance to Laboratory staff and support personnel to maintain high-quality lab operations.
• Participate in CAP, Joint Commission, CLSI, and other regulatory-aligned activities as required.

Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or a related biological/chemical science, with completion of an accredited clinical laboratory practicum or internship consistent with CLIA’88 requirements for high complexity testing. Non-traditional routes to established skill level may be accepted after education/experience review, as a section supervisor overseeing high complexity testing within specialty.

Two years working in a clinical laboratory as MLS or 4 years as MLT with at least two years of high complexity testing including area of specialty. Proven technical skill and initiative; ability to function effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Nationally recognized MLS (preferred) or MLT certification required; ASCP BOC preferred.

• Reports To:
  
  Laboratory Supervisor
• Supervises:
  Provides technical guidance to Lab Assistants; provides technical oversight to MLS, MLT, and Technical Assistants
• Other Contacts:
  Laboratory Management, Pathologists, Providers, Clinical Staff, Patients, and Technical and Field Service Representatives
• Scope:
  Equipment and instrument management; inventory control; policy and procedure development

• Potential for exposure to infectious specimens, biohazardous materials, and blood-borne pathogens.
• Handling of chemical reagents with potential odors or fumes.
• Potential for high-stress situations including emergency testing requests, frequent calls and inquiries, and heavy workload.

Must use appropriate PPE (lab coat, gloves, eye protection, and face mask or respirator as required), along with closed-toe, non-slip shoes. Additional PPE such as hair or shoe covers may be necessary in…