Clinical Laboratory Scientist III

Brief Job Description: 

Medical Technologist III 
Under limited supervision of the Hemoglobinopathy Screening Supervisor uses considerable knowledge to independently perform highly complex Hemoglobinopathy Isoelectric Focusing (IEF) and High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis on high volume neonatal screening and Texas Health Steps specimens or other specimen sources. Serves as an authority on test procedures in the Hemoglobinopathy Screening laboratory. Utilizes considerable working knowledge of all procedures to participate in maintaining analytic accuracy. Responsible for independently performing specimen preparation and analysis, quality control and assay acceptability, data and work list evaluation, result entry, release of final results, maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment, and training of personnel. Responsible for making significant decisions on the accuracy of laboratory tests on human specimens. Independently determines and releases complex results based on Standard Operating Protocols (SOP). Actively participates in the safety program. Duties are independently performed with considerable latitude, adherence to standard protocol, and with use of scientific knowledge and independent judgment. Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary; all staff members will be required to work on some Saturdays as part of a rotating schedule. Shift differential pay may be applicable. 

Essential Job Functions (EJFs): 

EJF 1. Prepares dried blood spot samples by eluting with an elution solution. Accurately and efficiently samples blood specimens onto an agarose gel using both multichannel and single channel pipettes. Run, monitor, and troubleshoots sampled gels on IEF chambers. Processes gels by applying appropriate reagents to fix and stain specimens onto sampled gels. Reads and performs highly complex IEF interpretation on specimens. Performs routine and specialized preventative maintenance for IEF analytical equipment. Identifies equipment problems, performs troubleshooting, makes routine adjustments as indicated. (20%) 

EJF 2. Prepares dried blood spots with deionized water. Prepares primers and controls with deionized water using a single channel pipette. Uses software to create a worklist and result file for HPLC results. Accurately interprets and performs highly complex HPLC analysis on specimens. Performs routine and specialized preventative maintenance for analytical equipment. Identifies equipment problems, performs troubleshooting, and makes routine adjustments as indicated. (25%) 

EJF 3. Performs high volume sampling (punching) of filter paper specimens for all newborn screening specimens. Uses technical knowledge to determine specimen acceptability. Performs routine and specialized preventive maintenance of highly complex punching equipment.  Identifies equipment problems, performs troubleshooting, makes routine adjustments as indicated and completes required documentation (20%) 

EJF 4. Evaluates and interprets highly complex data and assigns final results. Reviews and releases final results using the laboratory information management system. Uses Newborn Screening and Clinical Chemistry laboratory information computer systems.  Completes all documentation with required information.  (20%) 

EJF 5. Promotes workflow through cooperative interaction, reassignment of duties, and teamwork with supervisors, co-workers, and internal and external customers. Recognizes delays in completion of specimen testing, result reporting, and other essential functions and notifies the supervisor immediately. Identifies problems with atypical test results recommending solutions and consulting with upper-level personnel. Conducts training and tours. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Actively participates and/or serves in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation.  Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.  Performs other duties as assigned. (10%) 

EJF 6. Actively participates in quality control review, proficiency testing, equipment performance documentation, specimen workload tallies and supply inventory to ensure consistently acceptable quality assurance and test performance. Completes all documentation with the required information. (5%) 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): 

Knowledge of general laboratory, clinical chemistry, quality control, IEF and HPLC principles, techniques, and terminology. 
Knowledge of laboratory safety including sample handling techniques. 

Skill in manipulating standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety. 

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. 

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. 

Ability to use and troubleshoot various items of laboratory equipment associated with work area. 
Ability to use a computer. 
Ability to interact effectively with staff. 

Ability to work in harmony with other team members. 

Ability to work as part of a team adhering to structured deadlines for completion of critical laboratory procedures that are performed in high volume.  

Ability to lead co-workers by setting a positive work-ethic example. 

Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately. 
Ability to keep accurate, detailed records. 
Ability to use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material. 
Ability to complete tasks without close supervision and use mature judgment in test interpretation. 
Ability to prioritize and organize detailed tasks to maintain required team timeframes. 
Ability to recognize and solve work area problems. 
Ability to maintain work area instruments and automated testing equipment. 
Ability to teach work area procedures to co-workers and guests. 

Ability to prepare diagnostic (analytical) reagents and/or controls accurately. 
 

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: 

N/A 

Initial Screening Criteria: 

Education: 

Personnel performing high complexity testing must have a minimum of one of the following: 

Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution; or 

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution.  

Experience: 

Preferred but not required: clinical laboratory testing including procedures in newborn screening or clinical chemistry or high-volume workload or complex analysis or complex laboratory instrumentation. 

A rotating Saturday shift is required. 

Additional Information: 

A rotating Saturday shift is required. Shift differential pay may be applicable. A functional color vision assessment will be administered prior to employment. This position involves working in a clinical laboratory environment with potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including Hepatitis B.