Clinical Lab Scientist

The Clinical Lab Scientist performs test procedures in multiple disciplines within the Clinical Lab. Performs and reports test results (manually and automated). Operates laboratory instrumentation & equipment to accurately generate test results.  Initiates troubleshooting of errant laboratory instrumentation & equipment as needed.  Follows established quality control procedures and participate in all associated tasks in the section. Must be able to work in a high volume setting.

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Key Responsibilities

Task A: Perform Procedures

1. Performs all procedures assigned to the shift in an accurate and efficient manner.

1. Learns and performs any new procedure within a reasonable time frame.

1. Performs procedures in a manner, which does not deviate from the step-by-step procedure write-up. Any deviation from the procedure must be reviewed with a supervisor prior to sending any results.

1. Be responsible for procedural updates by reviewing procedures on an annual basis, checking posted and emailed updates, and by reading and initialing all meeting notes. 

1. Completes test procedures and transmits results in the laboratory computer system within established turn-around times (TATs).

1. Reviews results and validates on computer screen before releasing the results to the LIS (Laboratory Information System).

1. Monitors pending logs for incomplete tests. Follows up to ensure testing is performed and completed.

1. Never alters patient test results in any way after they have been released to the LIS except through accepted procedure with documentation. 

1. Calls critical value results to unit or MD within 15 minutes of test completion and enters appropriate English Text Code and documentation. Documents barriers to notification.

1. Reports abnormal results, as indicated in the procedures, to supervisor and/or resident in a timely manner (if applicable).

1. Labels specimens, reagents and worksheets with required information in a legible and neat manner with ink pen.

1. Legibly records the results of manual tests on worksheets in ink. Manually enter test results that are not transmitted by on-line instruments within 30 minutes.

1. Correctly makes dilutions following the dilution protocol for the assay.

1. Communicates across shifts in regards to patient and instrument problems, and pending tests. Follows Hand Off Procedure.

1. Completes required training and competency assessments within the assigned time frames. 

1. Maintains a clean and neat work area. Replenish supplies and prepare reagents as needed.

1. Wears buttoned lab coat, gloves and uses face protection when handling patient samples. Exercises proper care and precautions to protect oneself from health hazards. Refrains from smoking, drinking, or eating in and around work areas.

1. Take full responsibility for errors when committed, notifies required personnel and completes appropriate documentation. 

1. Integrates assigned tasks in order to complete the assignments by the end of the work shift.

1. Works well without close or continual supervision.

1. Accepts a reasonable increase in the workload when necessary or assigned by a supervisor.

1. Adheres to all policies and procedures established in the Clinical Laboratory Personnel Policies.

1. Performs special studies or projects when added to routine procedure run or when assigned separately.

1. Assists in the training of new CLS’s and CLS trainees and students.

1. Assists with receiving, unpacking, and storage of reagents and supplies.

1. Assists coworkers when own tasks are completed.

1. Answers phone calls or in-lab inquiries. Maintains a respectful and professional attitude at all times.

Task B: Maintain & Troubleshoot all equipment used in the department

1. Operates laboratory equipment and analytical instruments in a proper and efficient manner.
2. Evaluates the proper performance of laboratory equipment and instrumentation and notifies the supervisor of any malfunction.
3. Be able to initiate troubleshooting of any instrument when a malfunction occurs.
4. Notify the first available supervisor or specialist of malfunction. If no supervisor on site, and if an instrument cannot be used until repaired, attaches Repair Tag or Out of Service tag, and sends email to bench staff alerting them to the status. 
5. Never modifies or alters the equipment or instrumentation without consulting a supervisor.
6. Performs maintenance on equipment as assigned or instructed by a supervisor or specialist.
7. Initials Maintenance Logs after performing maintenance procedures.
8. Records malfunction and corrective action in service log books. Notifies supervisor and/or bench staff via email of pending service calls. 

Task C: Analyze designated quality control material with all procedures

1. Prepares QC material as needed.
2. Analyzes required quality control material for all procedures. 
3. Records QC results on worksheet and/or in the LIS.
4. Repeats test/test run if controls are outside the posted control range. Initiate troubleshooting of out-of-control situations. 
5. Notifies a supervisor whenever results of assays on QC materials are out-of-range.
6. Completes analysis of proficiency testing material within stated turn-around-time.

Task D: Perform additional duties, projects, and/or special assignments when requested.

1. Collects sample at patient bedside when required by the procedure (if applicable). 

   
   

2. Initiates Laboratory Problem Reports or Incident Reports to document complaints, errors, injuries and/or variances from standard procedure. 

1. Complete projects or studies within the agreed upon time period.

Required Qualifications:

• This position may require flexibility to orient and work at othre UCSF Medical Center locations
• College graduate degree with a BA or BS in a related science
• Recent experience performing clinical lab testing in multiple Laboratory disciplines

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in a high-volume laboratory doing clinical laboratory testing
• Experience with current automation and instrumentation used in a clinical laboratory

Requred License:

• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license