Senior Medical Laboratory Technician

Ref #: A002

Lab Medica Group of Companies

Job Description

JOB TITLE:   Senior Medical Laboratory Technician

The Senior Medical Laboratory Technician (SMLT) performs advanced clinical laboratory tests across hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and immunology. The SMLT ensures quality control, supervises laboratory operations, and trains junior staff, playing a vital role in pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes.

REPORTS TO:

• Lab Manager

• Lab Supervisor

SUPERVISION GIVEN TO:

N/A

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Sample Management:

• Receive, identify, and prepare incoming samples for analysis, ensuring proper labeling and documentation.

• Register request forms on the LiveHealth database, ensuring accurate data entry for efficient tracking and reporting.

• Dispatch samples to appropriate work areas and maintain proper storage conditions, particularly for urgent and specialized samples.

• Prepare and manage frozen aliquots and special handling samples, promptly alerting personnel as needed.

Testing and Analysis:

• Perform advanced diagnostic testing procedures, including:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)

• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

• Blood grouping and typing

• Electrolytes and renal function tests

• Rapid tests for infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, VDRL, HSV)

• Coagulation tests (PT/PTT)

• Urinalysis, including dipstick tests and microscopy

• Microbial cultures and sensitivity testing

• Maintain a thorough understanding of test methodologies, troubleshooting, and optimization of laboratory processes.

Quality Control and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with laboratory regulations and standards (e.g., CLIA, OSHA) by implementing and adhering to quality control measures.

• Conduct regular maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy of test results.

• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for cleaning and disinfecting equipment, work surfaces, and maintaining a safe laboratory environment.

• Record and monitor temperatures of refrigerators and incubators, ensuring proper storage of samples and reagents.

Training and Mentorship:

• Mentor and train junior laboratory staff on testing procedures, equipment operation, and safety protocols to enhance their technical skills and professional development.

• Conduct training sessions and workshops to promote best practices in laboratory operations and quality assurance.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of all laboratory procedures, results, and quality control measures in compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Utilize the LiveHealth database effectively for data management, ensuring timely processing and reporting of test results.

• Handle incoming laboratory inquiries and communicate findings to physicians and healthcare providers with professionalism and clarity.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES 

• Interpersonal Skills: Effectively collaborate with staff at all levels and interact courteously with visitors and healthcare professionals.

• Analytical Thinking: Demonstrate the ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make informed decisions based on laboratory findings.

• Flexibility: Adapt to changing priorities and workflows in a fast-paced laboratory environment.

• Work Attitude: Show initiative and enthusiasm in performing tasks, contributing positively to team dynamics.

• Communication Skills: Exhibit strong verbal and written communication abilities, ensuring clarity and precision in all interactions.

• Organizational & Time Management Skills: Effectively prioritize tasks and manage time to meet deadlines and maintain workflow efficiency.

• Deportment: Conduct oneself in a professional manner, representing the organization positively at all times.

• Problem Solving: Utilize logical reasoning and past experiences to address challenges and improve laboratory processes.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

KNOWLEDGE:

• Comprehensive knowledge of laboratory procedures and protocols across various disciplines.

• Strong understanding of quality assurance principles and regulatory compliance (e.g., CLIA, OSHA).

• Proficiency in laboratory information systems and Microsoft Office Suite applications.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.

• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, to interact with healthcare providers and laboratory staff.

• Ability to train and mentor junior staff, fostering a collaborative learning environment. 

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

Minimum of an Associate’s degree in chemistry, biology or related field; a Master’s degree is preferred.

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive laboratory experience, with at least three (3) years in a supervisory or leadership role within a clinical laboratory setting.

Certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or equivalent from an accredited institution; additional certifications (e.g., ASCP, AMT) are highly desirable.

Extensive expertise in managing complex laboratory tests and processes, including hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and immunology, with a strong focus on quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

Proven leadership skills in training, mentoring, and developing laboratory staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Demonstrated success in implementing laboratory protocols and quality control measures to enhance operational efficiency and accuracy.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a track record of effectively addressing technical challenges and optimizing laboratory workflows.

Proficient in utilizing laboratory information systems and data management tools, with advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite.

Ability to work on a shift basis