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

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 (MLS) Trainee/1 with the Immunology Laboratory at the Renton Central Laboratory.  

The Immunology Lab performs a wide range of unique assays from a variety of specialty clinics. We offer autoantibody testing, as well as run electrophoresis, IFA, allergy and ELISA assays, as well as many other manual and automated tests. We also do a CSF specific transferrin test, which runs electrophoresis and immunofixation on a body fluid in parallel with serum to check for CSF leakage. Additionally, we work in conjunction with the Dr. Nghiem Lab, which is the only lab in the world that currently runs the Anti-Merkel Cell Panel for Merkel Cell Carcinoma.  

Work schedule: 

• 100% FTE

• Mon-Fri, 10-hour days with a fixed day off 

• Day shift 

What you’ll contribute: 

Perform clinical laboratory tests used in the screening, diagnosing, and treating of pathological conditions:  

• Perform laboratory testing on samples (i.e., patient, research, and proficiency testing), accurately and precisely, as assigned:  

• Using the following types of instruments:  

• Automated Immunoanalyzers (e.g., Binding Site Optilite, BioRad BioPlex, Phadia250)  

• Automated IFA and/or ELISA processors (e.g., BioRad PhD).  

• Electrophoresis apparatus and scanners (e.g., Sebia Phoresis, Assist, Hydrasys)  

• Immunofluorescent microscopes (Nikon and Zeiss)  

• Magpix Luminex instrument, Euroimmun Immunblot  

• Manual assays. Examples:  

• ELISA  

• Radial Immunodiffusion  

• Line Blot Assays  

• Cold Agglutinin Titers  

• Viscosity measurements  

• Cryoglobulins/Cryofibrinogens  

• Subjective immunofluorescence microscopy. Examples:  

• Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA)  

• Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)  

• Other cytoplasmic antibodies on tissue substrates  

• Use a variety of computer systems/programs including, but not limited to:  

• Instrument linked computers  

• Sunquest LIS  

• Lab Medicine server systems  

• UW Medicine systems (e.g., Epic)  

• Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook  

• MyChem  

• MediaLab  

• Be familiar with and able to use the Immunology Lab procedure and quick reference guides.  

• Perform maintenance procedures, daily, weekly and monthly on Immunology instruments according to SOPs.  

• Run Quality Controls (QC) according to SOPs. Evaluate QC results and take appropriate steps with there are QC failures.   

• Troubleshoot instrument issues, interacting appropriately with technical support services.  

• Work independently and manage assigned workload; ask for help if needed.  

• Help others and/or work on projects when scheduled assignments are completed.  

• Participate in laboratory quality improvement projects and method validation studies.  

• Participate in laboratory staff meetings.  

• Review all intra laboratory communication documents (e.g., Microsoft Teams posting, meeting notes, procedure/job aids changes)  

• Enter patient and Quality Control Data into the LIS. Notify Client Support Services to fax results as needed.   

• Monitor reagent inventories and ensure that supplies arrive in time to perform validation studies before they are needed for clinical testing.  

• Monitor quality control materials and ensure that new supplies are checked out and ready for use.  

• Answer questions from other laboratories and providers about the testing services offered in the Immunology lab.  

• Train and teach new employees, medical students, DLMP Residents, and MLS program students.  

• Work to maintain a safe working environment in the laboratory.  

• Participate in technical Competency Assessment programs.  

• Participate in continuing education programs, as scheduled.  

• Be familiar with Departmental “Environment of Care” Policies, Workplace Safety Protocols, patient confidentiality policies, and all SOPs regarding departmental and divisional compliance and integrity in the workplace.  

• Perform other duties as assigned. 

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. 

Desired qualifications: 

• Experience with Immunology assays and instruments 

• Excellent communication skills with colleagues  

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:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

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.