Laboratory Technical Specialist

Job Description

SUMMARY:

 Under the direction of the Laboratory Senior Manager, the Laboratory Technical Specialist is responsible for the overall operation and administration of the laboratory; coordinating the activities of personnel engaged in performing chemical and/or physical tests, quality control processes, and reporting clinical laboratory test results.  Responsible for performing tests in a high-complexity clinical laboratory in three or more specialties, such as Microbiology, Serology, Chemistry, Toxicology, and/or Immunology.  The Laboratory Technical Specialist may fulfill the duties of the Laboratory Senior Manager, as delegated, during the Senior Manager’s absence and may serve in a supervisory capacity. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

*Include the following. Other duties may be assigned.*

  • Must be accessible to testing personnel at all times while testing is performed and provide telephone or electronic consultation to resolve technical problems in accordance with policies and procedures established by the Laboratory Senior Manager.
  • Responsible for providing day-to-day management of test performances by testing personnel.
  • Responsible for ensuring that the laboratory personnel monitor test analysis and specimen examinations to ensure the acceptable levels of analytic performance are maintained.
  • Assure that all remedial actions are taken whenever test systems deviate from the laboratory’s established performance.
  • Assure that patient test results are not reported until all corrective actions have been taken and the test system is functioning properly.
  • Assure that orientation to the laboratory is provided to all testing personnel.
  • Assure that prescribed procedures are followed in the performance of any tests within the laboratory specialties and be capable of calculating the results of the tests performed if necessary.
  • Assure the proper operation, calibration, performance checks, and maintenance of all clinical laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Recognize and correct basic instrument malfunctions if necessary.
  • Assure that reagents and media are prepared, form a prescribed procedure and adjustments are made if necessary.
  • Assure that media, reagents, and calibrators are evaluated according to established criteria.
  • Assure that established quality control procedures are conducted on analytical tests, equipment, reagents, media, and products. Evaluate results of quality control and assure implementations of corrective action when indicated.
  • Determine performance specifications for new methods.
  • Establish basic quality control procedures.
  • Assure that comparison studies of precision, accuracy, linearity, cost, suitability, etc. are performed on new and existing procedures and results are reported in an established format.
  • Correlate and interpret data based on knowledge of physiological conditions affecting results and assess plausibility of laboratory results through correlating of data when necessary.
  • Specify the need for additional laboratory tests for definitive diagnostic information in prescribed instances.
  • Confirm and verify results through knowledge of techniques, alternatives, and instruments.
  • Recognize problems, identify the cause, develop alternatives, and determine solutions where no preset criteria are available.
  • Establish and monitor quality assurance/continuous quality improvement programs.
  • Establish and monitor safety programs in compliance with laboratory regulations.
  • Assure that records are maintained that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens.
  • Assure utilization of laboratory information systems or other methods to accurately and effectively report patient results.
  • Assure that laboratory procedures are written to conform to a standardized format.
  • Provide for clinical orientation and supervision for students and new or less skilled laboratory personnel.
  • Monitor ordering or direct ordering of drugs, solutions, and equipment and assure that records or ordering are maintained.
  • Initiate the purchase of supplies and equipment required for the laboratory.
  • Advise the medical director and laboratory oversight committee on the selection of the test methodology that is appropriate for the clinical use of the test results.
  • Assist with the interpretation of corporate policy and state laws as related to the laboratory.
  • Participate in Corporate safety procedures and programs.
  • Remain current in laboratory knowledge and skills.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITES:

Directly manage supervisors and/or technical and clerical staff in the laboratories.  Carry out managerial responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.  Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

Possess a bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology and holds a current Tennessee Medical Laboratory Supervisor (General) license. Candidates must have at least four years of full-time laboratory experience (30 hours per week or equivalent), obtained after qualifying as a manager.  Experience must be gained in a clinical laboratory approved by the Tennessee Medical Laboratory Board and supervised by a doctoral-level laboratory director.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES: 

General knowledge of billing and collections, ICD-10, and CPT coding, medical terminology, and computer software applications.  Knowledge of the principles and practices of supervisory and general management abilities of a medical office. Ability to operate computers, keyboards, and printers.  Knowledge of modern office practice, procedures, and equipment for multiple office sites.  Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with faculty members, staff, patients, and other third parties.  Ability to concentrate under high demands and listen effectively.  Ability to organize tasks; work as a team member and independently using sound management skills with a variety of professional disciplines.  Convey a professional and positive image and attitude.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EOE/AA/M/F/Disability/Vet

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