Senior Medical Laboratory Technician

The Senior Medical Laboratory Technician (SMLT) conducts advanced tests in hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and immunology. They ensure quality control, oversee lab operations, and train junior staff, contributing to pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes.

Responsibilities:

• Perform Simple to Complex Testing:

Conduct advanced laboratory tests on samples (blood, tissue, etc.) to diagnose and monitor diseases.

• Quality Control and Assurance:

Adhere to quality control procedures and participate in quality assurance programs to ensure the accuracy of laboratory results.

• Supervision and Training:

Oversee laboratory staff, providing training and guidance in methodologies and procedures. Mentor junior technologists and students.

• Equipment Maintenance:

Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment; ensure all instruments are calibrated and functioning correctly.

• Documentation:

Maintain accurate records of tests, results, and quality control activities; adhere to laboratory safety and regulatory guidelines.

• Collaboration:

Work with physicians and other healthcare professionals to interpret results and provide insights into patient care.

• ISO Accreditation & Protocol Development:

 Help develop and implement laboratory procedures and protocols to improve efficiency and effectiveness towards ISO 15189 Accreditation.

Routine Daily Duties:

• Cross Checking QC and Calibration for all instruments for both the am & pm shifts
• Assist with specimen receipt, accessioning, and processing/analysis in all laboratory operation areas.
• Conduct troubleshooting and repairs when applicable
• Prepare lab supplies orders (technical) and communicate to lab admin officer & accounts
• Receive orders and ensure proper storage and use
• Assist lab admin officer with queries and help to resolve
• Sign off on all lab results for the pm shift (Live Health) & email to clients (urgent requests)
• Send off panic results to clients expeditiously

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 unique handling samples, promptly alerting personnel as needed.

Testing and Analysis:

• Perform diagnostic testing procedures in the following areas
• Haematology & Coagulation
• Clinical Chemistry
• Immunology & Endocrinology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Drugs Testing
• Maintain a thorough understanding of test methodologies, troubleshooting, and optimization of laboratory processes.

Quality Control and Compliance:

• Implement and adhere to quality control measures to ensure compliance with laboratory regulations and standards (e.g., CLIA, OSHA).
• 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 and 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.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES:

Interpersonal Skills:

Effectively collaborate with staff at all levels and interact courteously with visitors and healthcare professionals.

Analytical Thinking:

Demonstrate the ability to analyse 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, manage time to meet deadlines, and maintain workflow efficiency.

Deportment:

Professionally conduct oneself, 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 verbal and written communication skills to interact with healthcare providers and laboratory staff.
• Ability to Train and mentor junior staff fosters a collaborative learning environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Qualifications:

• Education: A minimum of an associate’s degree in medical laboratory technology or a related field (is required; a bachelor's degree is preferred)
• Registration: Registered with the Medical Laboratory Technology Board of Trinidad & Tobago

Experience:

• 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.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Extensive expertise in managing complex laboratory tests and processes, including haematology, chemistry, microbiology, and immunology, strongly focusing 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