Laboratory Specialist

Class Concept

This is advanced technical work in a laboratory performing or auditing complex and specialized procedures in a particular area of assignment. Tests are performed to aid in the diagnosis of disease and treatment of patients and animals and interpretations of clinical, food, or environmental test results are made. Positions are located in complex laboratories or sections. Positions in this class have advanced knowledge of the work area, performing diagnostic tests that are highly complex, detailed, and often multi-step procedures; and advising and consulting with clinicians on diagnosis and treatment. Positions may function as quality assurance or quality control specialists performing audits of laboratory procedures, identifying non-conformities, and providing training in support of laboratory accreditation standards. Positions support implementation and maintenance of quality management systems. Work may include other related duties as assigned by management. Work is performed independently on a daily basis and is supervised by higher level laboratory personnel or quality assurance supervisors.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of general laboratory operational policies and procedures and of quality control standards and procedures.
• Considerable technical and theoretical knowledge to troubleshoot test procedures and interpret results. Thorough knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, or other biological methods.
• Thorough knowledge of the variety of laboratory procedures applicable to the area(s) of work.
• Thorough knowledge of laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and terminology.
• Thorough knowledge of the hazards of working with potentially infectious materials and how to take appropriate precautions to avoid infection.
• Skill in the use of laboratory equipment and in the performance of procedures.
• Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions, and of instructing others in complex technical procedures.
• Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision and make accurate observations.
• Ability to research, develop, evaluate, and implement new laboratory procedures and ability to perceive colors normally.
• Ability to advise and consult with clinicians and others on diagnosis and treatment and ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Minimum Education and Experience

Public Health Labs: Bachelor's degree in medical technology, microbiology, chemistry or a closely related biological science field from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in a medical laboratory or in the assigned work area; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Other Labs: Bachelor's degree in medical technology, microbiology, chemistry or a closely related biological science field from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in a laboratory in the assigned work area; or an equivalent combination or education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirements

Public Health Labs

Must be capable of meeting the Federal CLIA'88 personnel requirements for a general supervisor in a laboratory performing high complexity testing.