Clinical Laboratory Technical Specialist - Microbiology - Full Time - Days

Job Description

Provide technical expertise and specialized technical skills that support the laboratory lead techs. Provides oversight on review, evaluation and selection of new automated testing equipment. Supports training and professional development of staff including the development of annual technical competency assessment. Ensures compliance of laboratory technical areas with the standards of accreditation organizations (CAP and JCAHO). Works closely with medical director and manager to ensure quality services.

Under the direction of the Reference Lab Manager and IT Systems Infrastructure Lead is responsible for the operational performance of four computer systems in the Medical Laboratory. Will troubleshoot Horizon Laboratory System, HCLL Blood Bank System, Tamtron Pathology System and RALS Point of Care Data Manager and any other software utilized within the lab. Will maintain all computers and coordinate service issues with IS&T.

From CLIA-88 (Technical Supervisor)

The technical supervisor is responsible for the technical and scientific oversight of the laboratory. The technical supervisor is not required to be on site at all times testing is performed; however, he or she must be available to the laboratory on an as needed basis to provide supervision. The technical supervisor must be accessible to the laboratory to provide on-site, telephone, or electronic consultation;

Responsibilities

Provide oversight and support for departmental lead techs, including assistance with and review of quality control, proficiency testing, and errors and resolution of technical issues including instrument malfunctions. Provide advice and support to including:

• Establishing a quality control program appropriate for the testing performed and establishing the parameters for acceptable levels of analytic performance and ensuring that these levels are maintained throughout the entire testing process from the initial receipt of the specimen, through sample analysis and reporting of test results;
• Resolving technical problems and ensuring that remedial actions are taken whenever test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications;
• Ensuring that patient test results are not reported until all corrective actions have been taken and the test system is functioning properly.

Provide oversight and support for training, competency and procedures review including:

• Identifying training needs and assuring that each individual performing tests receives regular in-service training and education appropriate for the type and complexity of the laboratory services performed;
• Evaluating and documenting the performance of individuals responsible for high complexity testing at least semiannually during the first year the individual tests patient specimens. Thereafter, evaluations must be performed at least annually unless test methodology or instrumentation changes, in which case, prior to reporting patient test results; the individual's performance must be reevaluated to include the use of the new test methodology or instrumentation.
• Evaluating the competency of all testing personnel and assuring that the staff maintain their competency to perform test procedures and report test results promptly, accurately and proficiently.

Serve as the laboratory's liaison with the College of American Pathologists (CAP). Reviews standards established by accrediting agencies to ensure compliance. Work with the lead techs and manager to initiate new policies and procedures when appropriate.

Responsible for selection of the test methodology that is appropriate for the clinical use of the test results and for verification of the test procedures performed and establishment of the laboratory's test performance characteristics, including the precision and accuracy of each test and test system

Support operations of the laboratories four information systems including hardware and software maintenance, review and distribution of reports, training for system users, consultation with customers to define system requirements, and ordering of computer related supplies Generate management reports from all software as needed. Provide expertise and support on specialty report writing software.

• Maintain a high uptime level of all systems and related technology in Laboratory. Troubleshoot all software issues in the laboratory. Coordinate IT service issues with IS&T and vendors as necessary. Consult with end users and system vendors on the appropriate use of system resources to solve operational problems. Maintain and resolve internet security issues. Analyze and revise existing system logic difficulties and documentation as necessary. Maintain and monitor password control Coordinate security of all systems with IS&T. Document all system downtimes
• Establishes a test system into which files can be loaded and upgrades can be tested. Program expert logic scripts, system macros and report writers. Design validation and testing strategies for new software applications or changes to existing software and computer systems. Document outcomes of validation protocols. Document all changes to applications and coordinates training of users.

Provide a leadership role in the development of policies and procedures for the computer systems in use. Insure that accreditation requirements for laboratory computer systems are met, with appropriate documentation as required by College of American Pathologists (CAP) and CLIA. Meets with inspection personnel for on-site inspections and participates in interim self inspection as required by CAP.

Serve as Laboratory Services expert for hardware and software evaluation and systems selection. Lead the design, development and implementation of information system projects. Coordinate installation and maintenance of all PC hardware, networking and software with IS&T. Coordinate users, vendors, programmers and support analysts to meet requests for new software applications or changes to existing software applications and information systems.

Work with laboratory managers to improve use of systems. Evaluates current PC technology requirements for optimum efficiency. Defines or modifies procedures to solve complex problems considering computer equipment capacity and limitations to achieve desired results. Evaluate and provide recommendations to managers on how to improve their staff's use of software and technology. Advise managers of need to upgrade or purchase additional software. Provide assistance with training on software related implementation.

Oversee purchase, implementation and testing of laboratory instrument interfaces. Maintain and manage all laboratory instrument interfaces and coordinate with IS&T and vendors as required to resolve problems.

Maintain currency in the field through participation in continuing education opportunities.

Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, or chemical, physical or biological science and 4 years training and experience in high-complexity testing in the respective specialty

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Must be able to professionally interact with patients, visitors, physicians and staff. Must have excellent customer service skills including superior communication skills (verbal, written, and listening). Must have good analytical and problem solving skills and the ability to multi-task effectively in a stressful environment.

Superior time management, planning and organization skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Critical thinking skills to support quality decision-making

Working knowledge of basic computer applications, such as word and excel

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS:

MT(ASCP) certification is required.