Medical Lab Technician

Company : Oregon Health & Science University

Department Overview:

The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, known as one of the pioneers in personalized cancer medicine, is an international leader in research and cancer treatment. Driven by its mission to end cancer as we know it, the institute is building upon its expertise in targeted treatments to advance the early detection of cancer when the disease is most treatable.

Every Knight Cancer employee is expected to embody our guiding principles: 

• We act BOLDLY—Breakthroughs require pushing the boundaries of science, exploring new frontiers, and thinking differently
• We SUPPORT each other—Respect leads to trust, which leads to excellence
• We work as a CONNECTED team—We must leverage our collective brain power to conquer cancer because no one individual can do it alone

Function/Duties of Position:

The purpose of the Medical Lab Technician in the MDC Laboratory is to support the laboratory by performing specimen preparation, assessing sample integrity by performing a variety of moderate and high complexity specialized laboratory procedures, reagent preparation and other lab duties requiring initiative and independent decision making skills. The position works closely with KDL Front office, PTRL, and Cytogenetics staff.  This position will facilitate and further enable the MDC Lab to provide high quality patient care testing services that support the overall patient care mission of the Knight Cancer Institute and OHSU Hospitals and Clinics.

• Sample Handling and Genetic Testing: Review requisitions and orders to ensure proper patient demographics, sample information, and test accessioning. Isolate and quantify DNA/RNA from various specimens using established protocols and automated systems (Qiagen EZ1, Qiagen QIAcube, Promega Maxwell) for genetic, oncology, and infectious disease testing. Assess sample quality using Nanodrop/Qubit and ensure quality control (QC). Maintain accurate records and adhere to laboratory procedures to ensure sample integrity. Perform leukocyte cell counts and document daily QC for Sysmex 300, entering clinical data into LIMS systems. Provide assistance in performing complex tests and procedures as necessary.
• Reagent and Solution Preparation: Prepare reagents and chemical solutions per laboratory specifications, maintaining thorough documentation of lot numbers, preparation dates, and expiration dates. Utilize lab equipment such as pH meters, calibrated pipettes, and autoclaves as needed. Ensure proper labeling and safe storage of reagents and chemicals in accordance with laboratory and OHSU safety guidelines. Maintain an up-to-date chemical inventory and manage the annual update of SDS sheets.
• Histopathology Assistance: Support Histopathology Shared Resources (HSR) with clinical workflows, including the preparation and labeling of slides, scanning H&E/IHC slides, verifying block/slide accuracy, and preparing the bench station for technical staff. Manage waste disposal in collaboration with EHS and coordinate the movement of samples and supplies between HSR and KDL.
• Data Compilation and Statistical Support: Generate spreadsheets and assist with statistical and quality control evaluations of lab data. Import or manually enter data from laboratory worksheets, creating visual representations such as bar graphs or curves. Conduct analyses including standard deviations and confidence intervals for assay data. Contribute to the development of new tests and methods.
• Temperature and Calibration Monitoring: Maintain accurate temperature control logs for lab instrumentation (freezers, refrigerators, water baths, incubators, hybridization ovens). Ensure calibration of thermometers against NIST standards and perform regular checks for the calibration of pipets and other equipment as required for quality control.
• Laboratory Equipment Maintenance: Clean and sterilize laboratory glassware and plastics, ensuring that all quality control checks are performed. Autoclave materials and maintain detailed records of autoclave runs, including biological and steam indicators. Monitor water quality through microbial tests and maintain accurate records.
• General Laboratory Support: Provide assistance with inventory management, including the labeling, storage, and safe handling of chemicals and reagents. Ensure proper filing of SDS sheets for newly ordered materials. Answer lab calls and relay messages accurately and promptly. Adhere to confidentiality agreements regarding patient test results. Participate in lab meetings, training sessions, and other projects as assigned. Uphold OHSU and laboratory policies regarding attendance, appearance, and professional conduct.

Required Qualifications:

Education & experience:

• Completion of a 2 year accredited program in Medical Laboratory Technician training plus MLT (ASCP) or AMT certification completed within 90 days of hire; depending on date of training, different continuing education requirements will apply OR
• Bachelor's degree in a chemical or biological science, and two years of Laboratory Technical Assistant training/experience performing standardized laboratory tests in the specialty area(s) in which high complexity testing will be performed; MLT(ASCP) or AMT certification preferred; depending on date of training, different continuing education requirements will apply.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• This position requires good judgment, professional composure, keen organizational skills, excellent phone etiquette and interpersonal skills.
• General knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment, materials, techniques and safety.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions accurately.
• Ability to work independently within established guidelines, to adjust to rapidly changing priorities, to communicate and work effectively within a group.
• Skill in handling laboratory specimens, record keeping, sterile technique and laboratory equipment.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with a variety of clients including doctors, nurses, laboratory staff and patients and maintain confidentiality and a customer focus at all times.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a Biomedical science (or equivalent), OR: One year of "technical trainee" experience as a Laboratory Assistant in a medical laboratory OR
• Completion of a certified Laboratory Assistant training program OR
• Certificate or Associate of Applied Science Degree from an accredited Medical Laboratory Technician training program OR 
• Forty-five credit hours of university chemistry, biology, or microbiology laboratory course AND exposure to modern molecular genetic techniques in a clinical or research molecular laboratory.

Additional Details:

Apply online. Please be sure to upload a Cover Letter and Resume/RESUME.

We offer a variety of benefits on top of joining a thriving organization:

• Medical, dental and vision coverage at no or low cost to employees
  • Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents
• Several retirement plans to choose from with contributions from OHSU
• 104 hours of vacation time per year (increases over time)
• 96 hours of sick leave a year (prorated for part-time employees)
• Commuter subsidies
• Tuition reimbursement
• Access to group life insurance, disability insurance and other supplemental benefits
• Annual Raises
• Growth/Development Opportunities
• Employee discounts to local and major businesses

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All are welcome:
Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at (phone number removed) or aaeo@ohsu.edu.

Apply Online