Water Testing Lab Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Job Description

Who we're looking for:

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Renton, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a fixed duration Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT) 2 with the night shift Microbiology Team at the Renton Central Lab.

As a CLT 2, you will perform various routine and complex specialized laboratory processes, prepare and process specimens, and support the overall operation of the clinical laboratory. You will maintain quality control, train others in laboratory procedures, and contribute to process improvement. You may also be assigned special projects that support the development of new processes and workflows. Additionally, you will have responsibilities in the complex BSL3 lab and will participate in Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB) specimen intake, processing, and preparation. This will include performing concentration, decontamination, acid-fast staining, and additional smears according to AFB results.

Work schedule:

• 100% FTE
• Fixed duration appointment
• Monday - Friday with rotating weekends
• Night shift
• This position is recruiting for multiple openings

What you'll contribute:

Laboratory Testing & Specimen Processing

• Accurately process patient, proficiency, and environmental specimens, including specimen identification, order verification, quality assessment, preparation/concentration, media inoculation, incubation, and storage.
• Perform patient and proficiency tests in accordance with SOPs and established policies, including all complex components of Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB) handling.
• Utilize laboratory information systems (LIS) to accession, verify, report, or reject orders; enter results accurately and timely.
• Conduct and document routine quality control and preventive maintenance procedures.
• Recognize and troubleshoot problems with patient testing, QC, and equipment; escalate issues appropriately when unresolved.
• Perform the work of a Clinical Laboratory Technician 1 (CLT1).

Training & Process Improvement

• Assist in the sign-off instruction and training of staff, fellows, residents, students, and other laboratory personnel.
• Provide timely evaluation feedback on trainees' performance.
• Participate in the development, improvement, and implementation of new laboratory processes and procedures to improve accuracy, efficiency, and safety.

AFB/BSL3

• Safely receive, log, and prepare AFB specimens, including concentration, decontamination, and inoculation of culture media.
• Follow and perform processes to prevent and avoid contamination.
• Perform acid-fast staining utilizing complex techniques to avoid cross-contamination, that may include even tap water.
• Follow SOP and algorithm for additional smears as required per AFB results.
• Maintain strict adherence to BSL3 biosafety and biosecurity protocols, including PPE usage, entry/exit procedures, and contamination prevention.

Specialized Duties

• Provide review, audit, troubleshooting, and resolution daily and/or monthly for WASP system maintenance and logs; point person for Field Service Engineer (FSE), inventory supplies, trainer for new employee on WASP supportive details in operations, if needed escalate.
• Review, resolve, and troubleshoot monthly specimen rejection report, if needed escalate.
• Operate and troubleshoot specialized laboratory equipment essential for diagnostic testing and safety (centrifuges, heat blocks, autoclaves, BD BACTEC 960, BD FX40, Cepheid GeneXpert).
• Help with inventory of supplies, ordering, and any other duties assigned by the CLT Lead.
• Checking supplies and expiration dates.
• Participate in projects involving new and current procedure and processes updates and reviews.
• Review the daily check-off lists.
• Escalate any issues to the MLS Lead and manager, if needed
• Point of contact for escalated issues handling test and specimen requirements for any send-outs for internal and external clients.

What you'll need:

High school graduation or equivalent AND two (2) years of chemical, clinical, or public health laboratory experience.

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

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

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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.