At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team.

Job Summary

Position is responsible for daily supervision of assigned Laboratory operations including scheduling of staff and processes, ensuring quality, cost efficiencies and patient (customer) satisfaction.; performs certain management functions as directed by the Department Manager or Lab Director. Represents the Laboratory in the absence of the Manager; delivers certain, appropriate patient care according to the age of the patient/population served.

Position to be used only in a >400 bed hospital or Consolidated Laboratory.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications

Education: 

For generalist MLS positions

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science/Clinical Laboratory Science from an accredited institution OR
• Associate degree in Medical Laboratory Science AND Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, biological, clinical/medical laboratory science

Equivalency Required for Foreign Education

Licenses/Certifications:

For generalist MLS positions - Medical Technologist (ASCP or ASCP-International), Medical Technologist (AMT), MLS (ASCP or ASCP-International), CLS (ASCP), MLS (ASCP or ASCP-International)CM or ASCP Certification eligible and become certified within one year.

For SW and TMC Labs working in Blood Bank ONLY - Any of the above OR Medical Laboratory Science in Blood Banking (ASCP-BB)

Experience / Knowledge / Skills: 

• Five (5) years of pertinent experience in a high complexity laboratory in the assigned/specified area.

Principal Accountabilities

• Manages/performs other aspects of daily lab operations including collections, sample processing, result reporting/distribution, personnel direction (as appropriate), and clerical duties as required to maintain efficient workflow, at a competent level and according to the age/needs of the patient/population serviced.
• Communicates special circumstances to appropriate personnel. 
• Understands the quality process and is able to utilize quality techniques and principles. Has an in-depth knowledge of technical processes and serves as a resource for performance improvement.
• May serve on quality teams and system laboratory service technical teams.
• Interacts with hospital personnel, volunteers, physicians and patients regarding specimens and orders received by the Laboratory and/or reporting results according to the policies and procedures of Laboratory Services.
• Oversees and evaluates the performance of testing, quality control, maintenance, computer functions, and procedures for assigned area.
• Prepares monthly quality summary reports documenting the performance of instruments, quality control, linearity, service visits, and clinical service issues. Coordinates service visits.
• Evaluates and maintains technical procedures as appropriate to the department/facility; in area assigned, meets/exceeds competency requirements for all workstations; writes procedures; exhibits working knowledge of laboratory equipment and laboratory information systems.
• Supports intradepartmental cohesiveness; practices teamwork, acknowledges and appreciates other employees’ strengths, communicates effectively with laboratory staff, MLS, Manager, and Laboratory Director, provides and asks for feedback, accurately documents and reports issues, observations and solutions for the Laboratory Director or Manager.
• Develops an effective working relationship with all customers, solicits input, and works with customers to implement mutually satisfying corrective actions.
• Serves as a resource to other staff, having advanced levels of knowledge and experience in certain analytical techniques, processes, and aspects of the laboratory information system. Oversees laboratory processes. Oversees Laboratory mentors / preceptors and competency assessment programs for laboratory employees and students in the areas of technical procedures and policies, quality control, maintenance procedures, performance improvement, production efficiency, and customer service by providing input into Medical Laboratory Scientists’ initial, six (6) month, and annual training, performance appraisals, and competencies.
• Under the direction of the Departmental Manager or Laboratory Director, develops and validates laboratory tests and assays.
• Routinely verifies test results, addresses technical problems and acts as a technical resource for other laboratory personnel. Interacts with physicians and other departments relating to technical/process issues. When assigned, will serve as charge person in the absence of the Manager or Laboratory Director.
• Demonstrates leadership and performs duties in a manner to promote quality patient care and customer service/satisfaction, while promoting safety, cost efficiency, and a commitment to the CQI process.
• Mentors and provides input to Laboratory Director or Manager for counseling associated with performance, error reports, and employee recognition program. Participates in the peer interview process of job applicants and takes part in the hiring decision process.
• Understands, communicates, and complies with policies, procedures and initiatives of laboratory services, the hospital and system.
• Understands, communicates, and compiles with standards and conditions set forth by various governmental and accrediting agencies including TJC, FDA CAP, AABB, HCFA, OSHA, and CLIA. Assists the Manager in implementing and assuring compliance to certain standards and conditions.
• Ensures safe care for patients, staff, and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications including time management, supply management and oversees productivity, quality, and accuracy of service.
• Demonstrates commitment to the PIC process by integrating our culture in all internal and external customer interactions; delivers on our brand promise of "we advance health through innovation, accountability, empowerment, collaboration, compassion and results while ensuring one Memorial Hermann.
• Other duties as assigned.