Medical Laboratory Technician

Under the general supervision of the Specialist, Manager, or Director, the Clinical Laboratory Scientist performs complex clinical laboratory testing in one or more sections of the Pathology Department. This role requires professional-level expertise to accurately read, interpret, and evaluate test results, particularly those that are abnormal or atypical.

Responsibilities include equipment calibration, performance and interpretation of highly complex testing and associated quality control (QC) results, and troubleshooting equipment issues as needed. All duties performed reflect age-specific patient needs.

Brown University Health employees are expected to role model the organization's values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence, which guide daily actions with patients, customers, and colleagues.

In addition, all employees must demonstrate the core Success Factors, including:

• Instill Trust and Value Differences
• Patient and Community Focus
• Collaboration

• Receive specimens, confirm patient identification, and validate physician orders and labeling, ensuring proper handling to avoid contamination.
• Prepare solutions, reagents, and stains according to established laboratory formulas and procedures; verify expiration dates and properly date/initial reagents and QC materials once opened.
• Perform complex clinical laboratory testing using methodologies such as:
  • Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)
  • Indirect Fluorescent Antibody (IFA)
  • Chemiluminescence
  • Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
  • Electrophoresis
  • Immunoassay
  • Colorimetry

• Monitor testing procedures and parameters to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Analyze and interpret test results and determine their clinical significance.
• Collaborate with other technologists to verify unusual or atypical results; review findings with the Specialist, Manager, or Director as needed.
• Record and report results to the ordering physician or Department of Health (DOH) in accordance with procedural requirements.

• Perform quality control checks on equipment and reagents; document results and identify potential issues.
• Set up, monitor, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs, consulting the manufacturer's hotline when required.
• Clean and maintain laboratory work areas, equipment, glassware, and instruments.

• Assist with instruction of students and residents as needed.
• Support orientation and training of new employees within assigned laboratory sections.
• Participate in the development, validation, and implementation of new tests and procedures, and recommend modifications as appropriate.
• Maintain laboratory inventory, including stocking supplies to ensure operational readiness.
• Participate in Quality Assurance (QA) and Performance Improvement activities.

• Maintain a current Rhode Island Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license, including a minimum of 15 continuing education hours annually.
• Remain current with clinical laboratory theories and technologies.
• Comply with all Quality Assurance, Safety, Infection Control, and HIPAA regulations in accordance with hospital and departmental policies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in a laboratory science (chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, medical technology) or a closely related field, or equivalent education and experience as defined by CLIA standards.

One of the following is required:

• National certification by ASCP or equivalent in one or more categories, including:
  • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Medical Technology
  • Microbiology
  • Chemistry
  • Hematology
• Eligibility for national certification, including completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by ABHES, NAACLS, or another organization approved by HHS.
• Previously qualified (or eligible to have qualified) as a technologist under CLIA testing personnel standards.

• Ability to operate laboratory instruments and equipment and accurately perform and interpret all assigned tests.
• Physical and visual dexterity required for specimen analysis and test interpretation.
• Ability to stand and work at laboratory benches for extended periods.
• Demonstrated knowledge of patient care considerations related to aging, developmental stages, and cultural diversity throughout the care process.

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a clinical laboratory setting.

• Exposure to odors, infectious materials, toxins, and other hazardous substances.
• Visual strain from prolonged close examination of specimens.
• Regularly required to stand, lift, carry supplies, and perform repetitive laboratory tasks.