Microscopist

JOB SUMMARY At Houston Methodist, the Medical Laboratory Scientist position is responsible for performing both routine and complex analyses, which necessitates knowledge of laboratory techniques, principles, and equipment and their interrelationship. This position exercises good judgment by using critical thinking skills and deals with issue resolution concerning the day-to-day technical operation of the laboratory. The Medical Laboratory Scientist also ensures that specimens are accessioned and processed expeditiously in order to deliver quality laboratory results in an effective and cost efficient manner. PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Job responsibilities labeled EF capture those duties that are essential functions of the job. PEOPLE – 25% Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner. (EF) Teaches students, new employees and others as assigned by Manager. (EF) SERVICE – 30% Organizes workload and sets priorities. Utilizes all available work time by assisting others and performing additional tasks. (EF) Meets turnaround time expectations as defined by management. (EF) QUALITY/SAFETY – 35% Demonstrates the six elements of competency for test systems used to generate patient test results in all areas assigned to work. (EF) Recognizes, investigates and helps resolve test discrepancies. When problems arise, takes appropriate action to investigate and address and notifies management and the medical director for follow-up. (EF) Maintains a safe environment within the Laboratory, following all policies and procedures for safety, hazardous materials, security and emergency preparedness. (EF) FINANCE – 5% Adjusts work schedule to accommodate departmental/organizational needs. Appropriately utilizes the time recording system. (EF) Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Restocks section inventory levels as needed. GROWTH/INNOVATION – 5% Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development. This job description is not intended to be all inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS o Bachelor’s degree EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS o One year of work or training experience in a hospital laboratory preferred CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED o Must meet certification eligibility upon entry into this role and have one of the following required certifications within 18 months: o Preferred – Certified as a Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Scientist, or categorical certification by Board of Certification (ASCP) o Certified as a Medical Technologist by American Medical Technologists (AMT) o Certified as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist by National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) o HLA only – One of the following is required: – Medical Technologist, MT(ASCP) or Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP) certification – Certified by American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ABHI) o Microbiology only – One of the following is required: – Medical Technologist, MT(ASCP) or Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP) certification – Microbiology, M(ASCP) certification – Clinical microbiology registry from American Society for Microbiology, RM(AAM) KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED o Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations o Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security o Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles o Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities including organizing heavy work flow with minimal supervision o Strong attention to detail and ability to achieve and maintain accuracy o Demonstrates independent judgment and discretion to recognize problems, identify causes and take corrective action o Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital/Laboratory Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and testing records and other related documents o Demonstrates the ability to work independently with little or no direct supervision SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS Work Attire Yes/No Uniform No Scrubs Yes Business professional Yes Other (dept approved) No On-Call Yes, as required by entity/department for operational need Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Event, etc) regardless of selection above. Travel May require travel within Yes Houston Metropolitan area May require travel outside Yes of Houston Metropolitan area Travel specifications may vary by department. Company Profile: Houston Methodist West Hospital is committed to leading medicine in West Houston, Katy and surrounding communities by delivering the Houston Methodist standard of exceptional safety, quality, personalized service and innovation. The growing campus offers more than 200 beds, 22 operating rooms and more than 1,900 employees. Originally opened in 2010, the campus is expanding as part of the master plan, adding additional inpatient beds and a third medical office building to the campus by late 2023.