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Mls Lab Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Mls Lab information

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$43.8K

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How much do mls lab jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for mls lab in Seattle, WA is $70,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,200.00 and $83,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are MLS Lab professionals and what do they do?

MLS Lab professionals, or Medical Laboratory Scientists, are healthcare workers who perform laboratory tests to help diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They analyze samples such as blood, urine, and other body fluids using sophisticated equipment and techniques. Their work is critical in providing accurate test results to physicians, which aids in making informed medical decisions. MLS Lab professionals must have strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and adhere to strict safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science and national certification (such as ASCP). Proficiency in operating laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control procedures is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring accurate results and collaborating with healthcare teams. These competencies are crucial for delivering reliable diagnostic data that directly impacts patient care and treatment decisions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in an MLS lab, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in an MLS (Medical Laboratory Science) lab often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining accuracy under pressure, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technology. Staying organized and following strict quality control protocols is essential for minimizing errors. Continuous professional development and effective communication with colleagues can also help address technical and workflow issues, ensuring reliable and timely test results for patient care.

Is it hard to get a job in MLS?

Getting a job in MLS as a lab technician or related role can vary depending on the level of experience, education, and certifications required. Entry-level positions may be more accessible, but advanced roles often require specialized skills and relevant experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols is also important for employment in MLS labs.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) typically earn less than Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) because MLS roles usually require a higher level of education, such as a bachelor's degree, and often involve more complex testing and responsibilities. Salary differences can vary based on experience, location, and certifications, but generally, MLS positions offer higher pay than MLT roles.

What is the highest paid lab job?

In a lab setting, the highest paid roles are often senior positions such as laboratory directors or principal investigators, who oversee research projects and manage teams. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and location.

What is the difference between Mls Lab vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectMls LabMedical Laboratory Technician
CertificationsMLS certification (ASCP or equivalent)MLT certification (ASCP or equivalent)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilitiesHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Job ResponsibilitiesAdvanced testing, lab management, quality controlPerforming routine tests, sample preparation

The main difference between Mls Lab and Medical Laboratory Technician lies in their certification levels, responsibilities, and work environments. Mls Lab professionals typically hold advanced certifications and handle more complex testing and lab management tasks, while Medical Laboratory Technicians focus on routine testing and sample processing. Both roles are essential in healthcare diagnostics, but Mls Lab professionals usually require higher qualifications and work in more specialized settings.

What is an MLS in a lab?

An MLS in a lab typically refers to a Medical Laboratory Scientist, a professional responsible for performing laboratory tests to help diagnose and monitor diseases. They work with various lab equipment, follow strict safety protocols, and often require certification or licensing to ensure accuracy and quality in testing.
Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Renton Central Lab: Immunology

Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Renton Central Lab: Immunology

University of Washington

Renton, WA • On-site, Remote

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


University Of Washington School Of Medicine rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

183rd of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
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) Trainee/1 with the Immunology Laboratory at the Renton Central Laboratory.
The Immunology Lab performs a wide range of unique assays from a variety of specialty clinics. We offer autoantibody testing, as well as run electrophoresis, IFA, allergy and ELISA assays, as well as many other manual and automated tests. We also do a CSF specific transferrin test, which runs electrophoresis and immunofixation on a body fluid in parallel with serum to check for CSF leakage. Additionally, we work in conjunction with the Dr. Nghiem Lab, which is the only lab in the world that currently runs the Anti-Merkel Cell Panel for Merkel Cell Carcinoma.
Work schedule:
  • 75% FTE (30 hours per week)
  • Monday - Friday
  • Day shift

What you'll contribute:
Perform clinical laboratory tests used in the screening, diagnosing, and treating of pathological conditions:
  • Perform laboratory testing on samples (i.e., patient, research, and proficiency testing), accurately and precisely, as assigned:
    • Using the following types of instruments:
      • Automated Immunoanalyzers (e.g., Binding Site Optilite, BioRad BioPlex, Phadia250)
      • Automated IFA and/or ELISA processors (e.g., BioRad PhD).
      • Electrophoresis apparatus and scanners (e.g., Sebia Phoresis, Assist, Hydrasys)
      • Immunofluorescent microscopes (Nikon and Zeiss)
      • Magpix Luminex instrument, Euroimmun Immunblot
    • Manual assays. Examples:
      • ELISA
      • Radial Immunodiffusion
      • Line Blot Assays
      • Cold Agglutinin Titers
      • Viscosity measurements
      • Cryoglobulins/Cryofibrinogens
    • Subjective immunofluorescence microscopy. Examples:
      • Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA)
      • Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)
      • Other cytoplasmic antibodies on tissue substrates
  • Use a variety of computer systems/programs including, but not limited to:
    • Instrument linked computers
    • Sunquest LIS
    • Lab Medicine server systems
    • UW Medicine systems (e.g., Epic)
    • Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook
    • MyChem
    • MediaLab
  • Be familiar with and able to use the Immunology Lab procedure and quick reference guides.
  • Perform maintenance procedures, daily, weekly and monthly on Immunology instruments according to SOPs.
  • Run Quality Controls (QC) according to SOPs. Evaluate QC results and take appropriate steps with there are QC failures.
  • Troubleshoot instrument issues, interacting appropriately with technical support services.
  • Work independently and manage assigned workload; ask for help if needed.
  • Help others and/or work on projects when scheduled assignments are completed.
  • Participate in laboratory quality improvement projects and method validation studies.
  • Participate in laboratory staff meetings.
  • Review all intra laboratory communication documents (e.g., Microsoft Teams posting, meeting notes, procedure/job aids changes)
  • Enter patient and Quality Control Data into the LIS. Notify Client Support Services to fax results as needed.
  • Monitor reagent inventories and ensure that supplies arrive in time to perform validation studies before they are needed for clinical testing.
  • Monitor quality control materials and ensure that new supplies are checked out and ready for use.
  • Answer questions from other laboratories and providers about the testing services offered in the Immunology lab.
  • Train and teach new employees, medical students, DLMP Residents, and MLS program students.
  • Work to maintain a safe working environment in the laboratory.
  • Participate in technical Competency Assessment programs.
  • Participate in continuing education programs, as scheduled.
  • Be familiar with Departmental "Environment of Care" Policies, Workplace Safety Protocols, patient confidentiality policies, and all SOPs regarding departmental and divisional compliance and integrity in the workplace.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What you'll need:
Requirements for an MLS Trainee:
  • Accredited bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
  • Eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months from date of hire. Failure to attain the certification within 18 months of date of hire may result in a recommendation for termination.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Requirements for an MLS 1:
  • 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.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Desired qualifications:
  • Experience with Immunology assays and instruments
  • Excellent communication skills with colleagues

What we offer:
  • 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, and Airlift Northwest.
Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$38.46 hourly
Pay Range Maximum:
$56.73 hourly
Other Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/
Shift:
First Shift (United States of America)
Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular position
FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00%
Union/Bargaining Unit:
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.

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