Technical Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

This position provides technical support in the Core Laboratory to complete laboratory testing for OHSU hospital and clinic patients. The incumbent will be a qualified Medical Laboratory Technician with generalist experience or equivalent capable of performing laboratory testing and associated activities needed to support the technical services provided by the Core Lab. Testing is performed in the following areas: Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, Coagulation, and limited Microbiology. This position does not require testing skills in Transfusion Service. Specimen processing, test performance, and result reporting is performed independently after appropriate training. Supervisory review of results is required in the case of unusual/complex results, procedural problems, or when dictated by policy or procedure. The person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude, which will best serve the clients of the department.

• Performs testing in all sections of the Core Laboratory with accuracy, speed, and efficiency, using the following (but not limited to) Sysmex XN, ABL, AU, DXI, EXL UN3000, GeneXpert, BioFire and ACL TOPs instrumentation. Follows written procedures and policies.     
• Prepares samples for testing. Determines acceptability of specimens and results. Repeats analysis as necessary to insure accuracy. Reports test results via computer and telephone.
• Performs all computer functions using EPIC LIS and HIS software.
• Answers telephone requests for laboratory information.
• Calibrates, maintains and troubleshoots laboratory instruments and procedures. 
• Trains new employees, students and residents. 
• Performs and evaluates quality control data to determine functionality of instruments and procedures. Reviews questionable data with technologist.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Assists with miscellaneous technical administrative functions to support daily laboratory activities.
  
  • Performs inventory of reagents and supplies.
  • Reviews critical, summary and outstanding lists.
  • Performs projects assigned by lead worker, technical coordinator or lab manager.
• Completes competency training, annual review of policy and procedure manuals, and safety review. Attends and participates in staff meetings and training sessions.
• Performs requirements for Staff Members as outlined in Compliance Roles and Responsibilities in OHSU Hospitals and Clinics and understands and complies with the Code of Conduct, OHSU and departmental policies and procedures, and other applicable procedures, rules and regulations.
• Communicates and works effectively as part of a team, and interacts with a variety of clients including doctors, nurses, laboratory staff and patients, maintaining a customer service focus at all times.
• Performs job responsibilities ethically, professionally, and with personal integrity, and functions as part of the team exhibiting excellent communication, teamwork and customer service skills.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings and training sessions. 

• 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.

• General knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment, materials and techniques, regulations and safety.

• Skill in handling of laboratory specimens, record keeping and laboratory equipment.

• Skill in identifying cells and cell morphology.

• Skill in using several different computer systems, including: word processing, dedicated LIS/HIS, etc.

• Ability to follow written and oral instructions accurately, and operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment.

• Ability to work independently within established guidelines, to adjust to rapidly changing priorities, and apply problem-solving skills.

• Ability to demonstrate performance of job duties to trainees.

• Demonstrate personal integrity, efficiency, and ability to adjust to rapidly changing testing priorities.

• Ability to work in a multi-tasking environment and display technical skills at many different workstations throughout the laboratory.

• Ability to perform the job duties with or without accommodation.

• Generalist experience in Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, Coagulation, and limited Microbiology within last two years preferred.  Applicants with recent experience in only Chemistry and/or Hematology will be considered.
• MLT (ASCP) or equivalent within 90 days of hire.  

Positions in the laboratory and environs may require working flexible schedules including nights weekends and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation; working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature control problems in building.

We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu