Under supervision, performs waived and moderately complex laboratory tests as well as pre-analytical procedures, and standardized tests and examinations in a clinical laboratory setting; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3 Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
The Medical Laboratory Technician class is distinguished from the higher Clinical Laboratory Scientist in that the latter is licensed to perform microscopic and transfusion service testing.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Ensures accurate and timely result reporting on waived and moderately complex laboratory tests by performing test/instrument start up, calibration, instrument maintenance, correlation study, quality control, patient testing, results interpretation, and resolving/troubleshooting problems according to established procedures.
Assists in the quality assurance process through investigation, understanding the root cause of issues, and implementing process improvements in collaboration with supervisors and coworkers.
Maintains adequate inventory.
Assists with validation of new reagents, new controls, new tests, and new instruments in compliance with local, State, and Federal regulations.
May perform all related duties of lower level laboratory staff, such as laboratory assistant, as assigned.
May assist in training and orientation of new staff within the scope of work.
May perform other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
License: Possession of a Medical Laboratory Technician license issued by the State of California Department of Health.
KNOWLEDGE
Clinical terminology, methods and procedures; common laboratory equipment and accepted safety procedures including Standard Precautions; specimen requirements and stability; reading tests, identifying and evaluating standard and abnormal test reaction and/or results, understanding clinical significance of tests; methods of arithmetic calculations and measurements; Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance.
ABILITY
Perform a wide variety of waived and moderately complex laboratory tests and procedures with skill and accuracy according to prescribed procedures; collect specimens from patients with skill, patience and tact; train others in technical laboratory procedures and equipment use; work effectively in a high volume, fast paced environment; follow written and oral technical directions; work effectively and in cooperation with organizations, departments, and staff; recognize and be sensitive to diverse cultural difference; maintain records and prepare technical, factual reports of test results; communicate with providers, staff, and clients effectively and professionally; promote excellence in customer service; perform work using related computer software.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Mobility- Frequent operating keyboard, standing for long periods, walking; occasional sitting for long periods, pushing/pulling, bending/squatting, driving, climbing stairs; Lifting- Frequent lifting 5 pounds or less; occasional lifting 5 to 30 pounds; Vision- Frequent overall vision, eye/hand coordination, reading/close-up work, field of vision/peripheral; occasional color perception, depth perception; Dexterity- Frequent reaching, grasping, repetitive motion, writing; occasional holding; Hearing/Talking- Constant hearing normal speech; frequent hearing on the telephone, talking in person, talking on the telephone; occasional hearing faint sounds; Emotional/Psychological- Frequent decision-making, concentration, working alone; frequent public contact, occasional exposure to trauma, grief, death, exposure to hazardous materials; Special Requirements-may require working weekends/nights; working alone; Environmental Conditions- Frequent exposure to noise; occasional exposure to dirt, dust, smoke, fumes, poor ventilation, cold, heat (indoor), hazardous materials.
San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.