Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Renton Central Lab: Microbiology

Job Description

Who we’re looking for:

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Renton, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1 with the Microbiology Team at the Renton Central Lab.  

Renton Central Laboratory is an exceptional place to build a career. The Microbiology Laboratory features state-of-the-art instrumentation and a first-class laboratory facility, providing an outstanding environment for high-quality diagnostic testing and professional growth.

As a regional reference laboratory, the Renton Central Laboratory offers a rewarding work environment where team members are exposed to a diverse and complex test menu. You will collaborate with experienced laboratory professionals and have ongoing opportunities to expand your technical expertise and advance your career.

Work schedule:

• 100% FTE
• Work schedule to be discussed with the hiring manager
• Day shift

What you’ll contribute:

• Prepares, evaluates, and reports direct smears including, but not limited to, Gram stains, KOH preps, Pneumocystis DFA stains, Auramine-O stains, Kinyoun stains and Wright/Giemsa. 
• Performs various tests for the identification of bacteria, yeast, mold and parasites on the routine benches per laboratory protocols. Additionally, performs susceptibility tests (disk diffusion, E-test, MIC and other methods as required) on pathogens per laboratory protocols.   
• Performs various serological procedures including PCR, EIA, and latex agglutinations.   
• Rotates and maintains competency in all sections where they have been trained. 
• Operates a variety of laboratory equipment (i.e. automated blood culture system, mass spectrometry instrument, automated susceptibility system, Verigene, BioFire, Cepheid Gene Xpert, microscopes, biological safety cabinet and anoxomat) and can perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting.   
• Exhibits a working knowledge of the laboratory information system software and can teach it to others.  
• Understands quality control requirements and follows policies to validate results.  
• Works independently to manage average workloads and knows when to request assistance in case of heavier workloads.  
• Performs work accurately and precisely and recognizes, corrects and documents errors when they occur.   
• Interacts with health care providers in a professional manner.   
• Knows what results are critical or reportable and follows the policies and procedures for reporting them to appropriate medical staff, epidemiology or Public Health Laboratory. 
• Assists with the evaluation of new tests/equipment and research projects as required. 
• Instructs new employees, medical laboratory scientist students, medical students, residents, and fellows in routine procedures and is patient and tolerant with them.  
• Continues education and maintain certification by attending Lab Medicine seminars, in services, staff meetings and/or by reading scientific journals and participating in CAP proficiency surveys.  

What you’ll need:

Requirements for an MLS Trainee: 

• Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND 
• Eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months from date of hire. Failure to attain the certification within 18 months of date of hire may result in a recommendation for termination. 

Requirements for an MLS 1: 

• Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND 
• Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division AND 
• One (1) year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee. Up to one (1) year of on-the-job experience performing clinical testing in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward the experience requirement. 

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

What we offer:

• Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
• Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
• Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
• And much more!

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:

A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.

Please visit our website to learn more about our department.

About UW Medicine:

UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.

All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest. 

Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.  

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$38.46 hourly

Pay Range Maximum:

$56.73 hourly

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.