Job Abstract

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist in the Microbiology laboratory performs a variety of standardized and highly specialized microbiological and molecular procedures. Primary responsibilities include: Evaluate and work up microbiology cultures, microscopic examination of specimens using various stains, running automated molecular assays, performing required Quality Control, reagent preparation, and troubleshooting laboratory instruments. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist is responsible for the accuracy, reliability and timeliness of patient test results used for the diagnosis, management and treatment of patients.

Essential Duties:

• Performs a variety of manual, semi-automated and automated microbiological and molecular procedures Biochemical, Hematological, Microbiological and/or Blood Bank analysis on varied patient specimens, maintaining a high degree of accuracy , reliability and productivity.
• Recognizes normal, abnormal, unusual and critical results and takes appropriate action as established by laboratory policy, including appropriate considerations for the age of the patient.
• Demonstrates proficiency in clerical and computer functions, for communicating results and for carrying out additional clinical and clerical duties to meet the needs of the Department.
• Assures results are available within defined TAT guidelines.
• Communicates and interacts effectively with co-workers, guests of the Institution and hospital clinical staff.
• Maintains professional growth and development.
• Participates in the Department’s Quality Assurance Program and continuing education sessions.
• Help monitor supply levels, communicating with the supervisor for supplies that are needed, assisting in monitoring inventory, as assigned
• Assists in training personnel.
• Functions independently in performing responsibilities, organizing and prioritizing work, assisting others when work is caught up.
• Adheres to Safety / Infection Control guidelines using personal protective equipment as required
• Willingness to take on new tasks and additional responsibilities
• Displays flexibility to cover the lab in emergencies and difficult staffing situations
• Obtains specimens from designated patients as necessary.
• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested by the supervisor.
• Adheres to established Hospital and Departmental policies and procedures.
• Possesses both a theoretical and working knowledge of all procedures and instrumentation in assigned areas.
• Understands the clinical significance of each test performed.
• Identifies and correct problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results.
• Adheres to, performs and documents all calibration, maintenance and quality control as required according to the laboratory policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Req Bachelor's degree Bachelor of Arts or Science and/or equivalent training for California Clinical Laboratory Scientist or California Specialty (Limited) License

• Req 1 year Minimum 1-year prior work or training experience to include: specialized and complex analysis, computer experience, quality control, calibration, QC evaluation, inventory control, preventative maintenance, and quality improvement in Microbiology.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Pref Bachelor's degree in Microbiology OR equivalent for California Clinical Microbiologist Laboratory Scientist License
• Pref Clinical Microbiologist Laboratory Scientist License Valid Clinical Microbiologist Laboratory Scientist License (from the State of California)
• Pref ASCP Certification ASCP certification preferred

Required Licenses/Certifications:

• Req Clinical Laboratory Scientist - CLS Valid Clinical Lab Scientist license or Limited license from the State of California.
• Req Fire Life Safety Training (LA City) If no card upon hire, one must be obtained within 30 days of hire and maintained by renewal before expiration date. (Required within LA City only)

USC is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring ordinance. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu.  Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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