Medical Laboratory Scientist/support Technician

UPMC Mercy's Automated Testing Lab

UPMC Mercy's Automated Testing Lab is seeking a dedicated laboratory professional to join our team on a steady 2 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. shift, with rotating weekends and holidays. If you're passionate about precision, innovation, and strengthening patient care through high-quality laboratory science, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact. At UPMC Mercy, we advance clinical excellence while compassionately serving everyone to help build healthier communities. Candidates will be hired into the appropriate title based on qualifications—Medical Lab Scientist, Medical Lab Technician, or Laboratory Support Technician (no experience required for Laboratory Support Technician).

The Medical Lab Technician's salary starts at $23.44/hour. The Laboratory Support Tech's salary starts at $19.80/hour. MLS/MLT roles are eligible for a generous sign-on bonus for those who qualify!

Responsibilities:

• Follow established procedures for the collection (including phlebotomy, as required) and processing of specimens for analysis including the appropriateness and stability of the sample. Perform qualitative and quantitative analytical procedures according to established protocols with precision and accuracy in a timely and efficient manner.
• Recognize critical, abnormal, and unacceptable test results and follow-up according to established protocols. Recognize factors that affect measurements and results and initiate the necessary corrective action according to established protocols. Identify problems with instrumentation, methodology, specimens, supplies, or results and act as outlined in predetermined protocols.
• Operate and maintain equipment within the scope of training utilizing defined schedules and written instructions to perform quality control checks, preventive maintenance, and calibration. Perform minor repairs. Use reagents and supplies cost-effectively; monitor and maintain an appropriate supply inventory.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of techniques, principles, and instruments, their interrelationships and physiological conditions affecting test results.
• Conduct, direct, or assist with test development and methodology/equipment evaluation, selection, and implementation.
• Performs High Complexity Testing (as defined by PA DOH) without direct supervision.
• Assume responsibility for first-line supervision of the section/department temporarily as delegated.
• Train and orient new employees, students, and residents, as applicable and as assigned.

Medical Lab Technician:

• Associate's degree in a laboratory science with certification (or eligible new graduate) from an accredited institution as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), OR
• Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited institution with a major in biological, chemical, physical, or clinical laboratory science, with 6 months of clinical laboratory experience OR
• Equivalent education and experience as defined by CLIA '88 for individuals performing high complexity testing.
• Minimum 1year's experience in a hospital laboratory preferred. Familiarity with medical terminology and laboratory information systems preferred.

Medical Lab Scientist:

• Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college/university AND successful completion of an accredited Medical Lab Scientist program, OR
• Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college/university with a major in biological, chemical, or clinical laboratory science AND ASCP or equivalent categorical or MLT certification, OR
• Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college/university with a major in biological, chemical, physical, or clinical laboratory science AND at least two years' experience in a role equivalent to that of a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) in a clinical laboratory.
• Prefer 1 year experience in a hospital laboratory.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory information systems preferred.

Laboratory Support Technician:

• High School diploma or equivalent, and at least 2 years experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) required in a clinical lab, OR
• Associate degree (with biology and chemistry courses) and at least 1 year of experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) in a clinical lab, OR
• Phlebotomy or Medical Assistant certification and 1 year of experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) in a clinical lab, OR
• Successful completion of a 50 week U.S. military medical laboratory training course, OR
• B.S. degree from an accredited institution with a major in biological or clinical laboratory science OR
• Currently enrolled in a MLS (Medical Laboratory Scientist) or equivalent training program, with 3 years college credits required.
• Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances: Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) (ASCP) or equivalent certification preferred. Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran