Clinical Laboratory Technician

Job Description

Who we’re looking for:

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Clinical Laboratory Technician 2 with the Cytogenetics Team at the University of Washington Medical Center – Montlake.

The Cytogenetics Laboratory is a full-service unit that performs FISH and Karyotype testing on all specimen types for constitutional and neoplasia studies. We are eagerly looking to expand our team to assist with the current caseload, increase our capacity to absorb fluctuations in specimen volume, including work from new reference labs. We are also developing new automated FISH techniques and are looking for someone to assist us with this development.

As a CLT 2, you will prepare specimens for cytogenetic and FISH analysis. You will make reagents, order supplies, maintain equipment and keep the laboratory stocked and prepared for specimens. You will also assist Cytogenetic Technologists and the Supervisor with quality control, quality assurance, and inspection preparation.

Work schedule:

• 100% FTE
• Work schedule to be discussed with the hiring manager
• Day shift

What you’ll contribute:

Laboratory Skills

• Enter patient and laboratory information into Epic database with accuracy and with attention to detail.
• Set up and harvest cultures of cells using sterile/aseptic technique, maintaining appropriate labeling of vessels and slides.
• Perform CD138+ cell enrichment.
• Gather unstained and H&E slides for paraffin FISH cases.
• Prepare slides and perform special staining for microscopy.
• Prepare reagents for laboratory procedures using protocols, balance and pH meter.
• Perform FISH pretreatment procedures, apply FISH probe and perform FISH post-wash.
• Sterilize, or prepare for autoclave/sterilization, solutions, instruments and equipment.
• Clean laboratory areas and equipment; take dishes to dish room, wash Coplin jars, perform detergent reside checks on cleaned glassware.
• Use microscopy skills to compile cell information and capture and enhance images for analysis.
• Use reference material to troubleshoot and check results.
• Transfer cell pellets to smaller storage vials for long-term storage.
• Check CO² levels, change CO² tanks and order new CO² tanks when needed.
• Maintain a safe working environment by following laboratory policies and safety regulations.
• Assist in research cases and data recording.
• Check laboratory monthly for expired reagents.
• File slides.
• Advise technologists and supervisor about stock needed to maintain laboratory functioning properly.
• Help the supervisor and staff find proper vendors for some stocks.

Quality

• Read and record instrument data.
• Assiduously maintain patient and specimen information.
• Maintain equipment used in proper working conditions. Coordinate with supervisor to resolve problems with equipment.
• Keep records of quality control data provided with shipments of media and reagents.
• Help obtain test reports from other laboratories.
• Assist in compiling data for Quality Assurance; check and record dates that AP/NP pathologist signed out FISH results, generate monthly poor growth, failure, amended Temptrak as well as AP/NP turn-around time reports.
• Assist the supervisor and specialists in preparing for CAP and other inspections.
• Maintain and implement laboratory safety procedures.

Administrative Tasks

• Accession patient, specimen and clinician information into Epic database. Select correct case types, fee schedules, assign CPT codes.
• Order supplies and organize documents related to ordering as needed.
• Print reports of completed cases, file patient folders.
• Perform all the duties of the Laboratory Technician.
• Perform related duties as needed.

Ethics and Professionalism

• Maintain confidentiality of patient information, including final diagnosis.
• Contribute to a pleasant working atmosphere.

What you’ll need:

• High school graduation or equivalent AND two 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

Pay Range Minimum:

$28.53 hourly

Pay Range Maximum:

$40.85 hourly

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech

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.