Medical Laboratory Technician

Position Summary

The Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is responsible for the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory specimens in support of patient diagnosis and treatment. Working in a moderate-complexity laboratory, the MLT performs laboratory testing in accordance with established procedures, CLIA regulatory requirements, and quality standards.

The MLT obtains and prepares blood, urine, and other specimens for analysis; performs laboratory testing and quality control procedures; operates and maintains laboratory instrumentation; and ensures accurate documentation and reporting of results. This position collaborates with healthcare providers and other laboratory staff to support high-quality patient care.

The Medical Laboratory Technician reports directly to the Laboratory Services Program Manager and Senior Laboratory Technician.

Schedule

This position is scheduled to work Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with rotating Saturday coverage every other week from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Employees scheduled to work a Saturday will receive a half-day off during that same workweek to maintain schedule balance.

Education and Experience:

• 2-year degree in Medical Laboratory Technology is required; plus 2 years of experience in a hospital or health clinic laboratory setting
• Proficient at phlebotomy skills.

Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:

• Valid American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification as an MLT

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing accurately and independently according to established procedures and quality standards.
• Collect, process, label, and prepare patient specimens, including phlebotomy and referral laboratory send-out testing.
• Perform moderate-complexity, waived, and point-of-care testing, including kit-based testing.
• Perform and document quality control, instrument maintenance, and required laboratory records to ensure reliable test results.
• Review, document, and communicate laboratory results to providers and nursing staff.
• Maintain laboratory inventory, order supplies as needed and support efficient day-to-day laboratory operations.
• Ensure compliance with CLIA regulations, safety standards, infection control practices, and organizational policies.
• Properly handle, store, and dispose of biohazardous materials and maintain a clean, safe laboratory environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support patient care and departmental needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficient in venipuncture and capillary blood collection techniques, with the ability to obtain specimens from patients of all ages.
• Working knowledge of CLIA regulations, laboratory quality standards, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Experience with laboratory reference testing processes and familiarity with Quest Diagnostics preferred.
• Demonstrates cultural awareness, sensitivity, and respect when working with Native American patients, families, and communities.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, use sound judgment, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Basic computer skills and proficiency with laboratory and electronic medical record systems.
• Commitment to accuracy, attention to detail, and maintaining patient confidentiality.

Core Competencies

Technical & Professional Competence

• Maintains and expands laboratory knowledge, technical skills, and professional expertise through ongoing learning and development.
• Demonstrates accuracy, attention to detail, and adherence to laboratory procedures, regulations, and quality standards.
• Uses sound judgment and maintains high ethical and professional standards.

Communication & Customer Service

• Provides excellent customer service by responding promptly, professionally, and respectfully to patients, staff, and providers.
• Communicates clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Maintains confidentiality and handles sensitive information with discretion.

Teamwork & Interpersonal Skills

• Works collaboratively with coworkers and healthcare team members to achieve departmental and organizational goals.
• Builds positive working relationships, values diverse perspectives, and contributes to a respectful work environment.
• Welcomes feedback and supports the success of the team.

Reliability & Accountability

• Demonstrates dependability through regular attendance, punctuality, and timely completion of assigned duties.
• Takes responsibility for actions, follows through on commitments, and meets performance expectations.

Safety & Organizational Commitment

• Adheres to all safety, infection control, and security procedures.
• Complies with organizational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Supports the mission, values, and goals of the organization while promoting a culture of respect, integrity, and inclusion.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for specimen collection, laboratory testing, data entry, and operation of laboratory equipment.
• Frequent verbal communication to interact effectively with patients, providers, and team members.
• Visual acuity required to accurately read laboratory instruments, specimen labels, test results, technical documentation, and computer screens.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a moderate-complexity laboratory within a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) outpatient clinic.
• Works in a fast-paced clinical environment with fluctuating patient volumes, requiring the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously, and maintain accuracy and professionalism during periods of increased workload and operational demands.
• Required to follow all safety, infection control, personal protective equipment (PPE), and hazardous materials protocols.

Environmental and Safety Expectations

• Adherence to OSHA, CLIA, and organizational safety standards.
• Consistent use of appropriate PPE and safe laboratory practices to minimize exposure risks.
• Maintenance of a clean, safe, and organized work environment.