University of Washington Medical Center·Seattle, Washington
Perform high-level moderate to complex manual and automated clinical diagnostic tests to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of pathological conditions. Maintain laboratory equipment, ensure quality control standards are met, and provide training to staff and students.
Who we’re looking for: The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) 1 with the Chemistry Laboratory at the University of Washington Medical Center - Montlake. As an MLS 1 under general supervision, you will perform and provide high level moderate to high complexity manual and automated clinical diagnostic tests used in the screening, diagnosing, and treating of pathological conditions. You will rotate and maintain competency in all sections where you have been trained. Additionally, you will follow safety/biohazard procedures, as well as practice “Universal Precautions.” Work schedule: 0.8 FTE Weds - Sat, 07:30 - 16:00 Day shift What you’ll contribute: Rotates and maintains competency in all sections where they have been trained. Refers to the procedure when questions arise. Understands and operates a variety of laboratory equipment that requires interpretative knowledge (i.e. blood gas instruments, chemistry analyzers, HPLC, AA Spectrophotometry, GCMS, LCMS, Hematology differentials, Immunoassay analyzers, spectrophotometers, etc.). Performs basic maintenance and troubleshooting measures. Exhibits a working knowledge of laboratory information system software, middleware, and other relevant software. Accesses and understands content of WIKI procedures and policies and document review. Understands quality control requirements, quality assurance requirements, and follows policies to validate test results. Works independently and manages average workloads and will ask for help when falling behind because of heavier than usual workloads. When tasks are completed, helps others and/or works on small projects. Keeps work area clean and organized and returns equipment to appropriate location when finished so others can follow with minimum disruptions. Keeps records neat, organized and legible so others can follow with minimum disruptions. Performs work accurately, precisely and recognizes, corrects, and documents errors when they occur. Interacts with health care providers and co-workers in a professional manner and remains calm. In the absence of a MLS Lead or MLS 2, establishes priorities of work to be done in a section and communicates problems to the following shift. Makes decisions based on written policies and require little assistance in prioritizing own workload when new situations arise. Knows the defined critical limits for all tests, reports them to appropriate medical staff, and documents the information according to laboratory policy. Assists with evaluation of new tests/equipment and incorporates checkout samples into the routine flow of work. Performs inventory in assigned area, unpacks, labels and puts away supplies rotating stock as needed. Communicates to MLS Lead/MLS 2 when any item is getting low. Calculates concentrations, prepares, verifies, and documents the making of reagents, controls, and standards. Checks the new lot of reagents as needed. Provides training to new employees, medical laboratory scientist students, residents, and post-doctoral fellows in routine procedures/policies. Acts as a resource to other resource personnel, including Clinical Laboratory Technicians and Specimen Processing Technicians. Attends DLMP related seminars, in-services, staff meetings and/or reads scientific journals to ensure continuing education. Receptive to new ideas and procedures and adapts to new routines and schedules as necessary. Participates in departmental efforts to keep a safe environment for all staff and reports hazards and any unsafe work practices to the supervisor. Knows the location of safety information and SDS manuals and accesses information in response to queries or emergency situations. Forms productive working relationships with co-workers. Arrives and leaves work at proper times and limits lunch and breaks to the allowed times. Shares responsibility for covering overtime and on-call slots if help is needed. Uses sick leave appropriately and its usage is at or below the suggested levels indicated in UWMC/HMC guidelines. Follows all rules regarding preparation and processing of samples for transport and/or testing. Provides bedside testing on a routine or emergency basis throughout the hospital as required. What you’ll need: Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division AND One (1) year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee. Up to one (1) year of on-the-job experience performing clinical testing in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward the experience requirement.
Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays. State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities. Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region. Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options. Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U. And much more! About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology: A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally. Please visit our website to learn more about our department. About UW Medicine: UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine. Compensation, Benefits and
SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech About the UW Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. Our Commitment The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.
Requires an accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or equivalent education and experience. Must hold a current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification from the ASCP or an equivalent organization.
Market context
In Washington, allied-health imaging roles are typically in steady demand because hospitals, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic centers rely on credentialed technologists to keep imaging services moving. These positions are competitive because employers often want an accredited imaging degree, Washington Department of Health certification, and ARRT registration completed quickly after hire. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your credentials and timeline before applying.