Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Division of Infectious Disease Diagnostics (DIDD)

Job Description

Who we’re looking for: 

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

The DIDD is one of nine divisions comprising the Department of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Washington. The UW Virology Clinical Laboratories perform diagnostic testing for a full range of human pathogens including Herpes group, HIV, hepatitis, respiratory, and enteric viruses. The Division provides the highest quality patient care and serves as a model of excellence for clinical laboratories across the nation. 

MLS professionals generate critical diagnostic results that guide clinical decisions, often influencing treatment in real time - even though the work happens behind the scenes. These roles involve hands-on work with cutting-edge instruments, molecular diagnostics, automation, and evolving methodologies, keeping the work intellectually engaging and technically challenging. Every day brings new challenges - troubleshooting assays, interpreting complex results, and adapting to new tests or technologies—making these roles dynamic and professionally rewarding 

Work schedule: 

• 100% FTE

• Tuesday through Saturday with rotating holidays

• Evening shift    

What you’ll contribute: 

• Perform clinical virology diagnostic laboratory tests; record, evaluate and interpret test results; contact appropriate personnel for tests with unusual or critical findings.  

• Assist in developing, following procedures and/or troubleshooting procedures and problems that may or may not include actual wet lab involvement, but requires a comprehensive understanding of laboratory testing gained from a foundation of medical laboratory science training and experience performing moderate to high complexity testing. 

• Calibrate, operate, troubleshoot and perform preventive maintenance to laboratory instruments and related equipment.  

• Assure that quality control requirements are met to validate test results; record data and maintain continual quality assurance program; utilize electronic quality control system.  

• Proficiency required in computer systems and programs such as Microsoft Word & Excel.   

• Proficient in laboratory information systems, discipline-specific middleware, as well as all institution-based computer systems for test result entry and/or data acquisition.  

• Assist in instruction and training of new employees, post-doctoral fellows, residents, and students.  

• Act as a resource to other lab personnel including Clinical Laboratory Technicians and Specimen Processing Technicians.  

• Assist in the design, development and evaluation of new procedures/processes.  

• Prepare and verify the quality of reagents, standards, and control samples.  

• Continuing education: Keep ASCP or other certification up to date per guidelines of the National Organization.  

• Perform related duties as required.  

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. 

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

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: 

• Relocation incentive for eligible new employees.  

• 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

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Temporary or Regular?

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ABOUT UW MEDICINE – WHERE YOUR IMPACT GOES FURTHER 

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 includes: Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest. 

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 dso@uw.edu. 

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.