IRL TECHNOLOGIST II

This is an overnight position with rotating on-call.

This position is responsible for performing moderate to complex serologic investigations on donor and patient samples. Precisely and accurately performs and interprets technical procedures to satisfy referrals and requests. Serves as a consultant regarding resolution of patient testing.

Supports and promotes organizational quality efforts through communicating problems relating to product, process, or quality system.

Primary Duties, Responsibilities or Activities Required by Job (Including but not limited to)

Perform Immunohematology testing on patient and donor samples received for consultation.
• Perform pre-analytic procedures in compliance with CLIA/NYSDOH regulations.
• Execute authorized tests with skills commensurate to education, training, and technical abilities.
• Prepare laboratory reagents and chemicals.
• Performs and documents laboratory quality control tasks and proficiency testing in the same manner ass patient/donor samples.
• Performs tasks associated with red cell and/or platelet antibody detection.
• Identification, testing, and procurement of antigen negative donor units.
• Maintenance of rare donor inventories.
• Specialized testing as trained and assigned.
• Evaluation of department work-ups and reports for error management purposes.
• Consult with internal and external clients on issues related to immunohematology and provide problem-solving assistance.
• Maintain accurate, concurrent, and complete records under strict time limits utilizing computerized systems and manual paper documentation.
• Assist with training and education internally and externally as needed.
• Provide on-call coverage on a rotational basis, as assigned and according to divisional department needs.
• Recognizes and reports to superiors problems encountered during performance of job tasks including equipment malfunction, deviation from standard operating procedure, unusual results, and discrepancy in test controls or controls outside established normal limits.
• Follow laboratory policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established performance specification.
• Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Processes meticulously, paying attention to detail.
• Reports and bill for patient test results accurately.
• Document laboratory quality control tasks, proficiency testing, and equipment maintenance.
• Facilitate communication with hospital transfusion service staff.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and communication to both internal ane external clients.
• Adhere to established guideline, procedures, practices, and policies for laboratory operations and safety.
• Ensure strict observation of laboratory safety measures and protocols.

Other Functions

• Participate in educational programs to fulfill national or state regulatory requirements.
• Participate in process improvement teams, as applicable.
• Utilize knowledge of other laboratory information systems as appropriate.
• Assist in equipment maintenance and conduct quality control testing.
• Perform additional tasks and duties as assigned on an as-needed basis.

Location Specific Details

• Performs platelet serology testing and crossmatch.
• Reviews draft reports for National Center for Blood Group Genomics.
• Participates in Experience in Blood Banking conferences.
• On-call specifications:
  • Cover call situations 24 hours a day/7 days a week as assigned.
  • Responds by telephone within 15 minutes to call notification and reports to the blood center within 45 minutes in emergency call situations.

Required Minimum Education & Experience:

Possession of a Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS), Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) or Medical Technology (MT), Biological Science, or a related field.

Also Required: Medical Laboratory Science (ASCP), Blood Banking Certification (ASCP), or equivalent.

New graduates with successful completion of an ASCP accredited clinical program for Medical Laboratory Science may be considered, provided they obtain individual accreditation as a Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (ASCP) during the training period.

Experience:

2 - 4 years of experience of relevant technical and Blood Banking, or Immunohematology skills necessary to perform the essential functions of the job.

Required Licences / Certification

Medical Laboratory Science (ASCP), Blood Banking Certification (ASCP) or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

Specialist in Blood Banking (SBB) or ASCP Certification

Knowledge Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge:

• Comprehensive understanding of clinical laboratory practices, including blood banking and Immunohematology principles.
• Knowledge of AABB, FDA Immunohematology, and Transfusion Medicine Regulations.
• Familiarity with LIS (Laboratory Information Systems) and BECS (Blood Establishment Computer System).
• Proficiency in using a variety of software applications, including the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Understanding of institutional and personnel policies, confidentiality, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in research and work processes.
• Effective organizational and time management skills, prioritizing tasks with excellence.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and professional demeanor, fostering positive interactions.
• Ability to identify and analyze strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions within established policies and procedures.
• Capacity to interact courteously and helpfully with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds.
• Proficiency in teamwork and autonomous work, collaborating effectively.
• Clear and articulate communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Demonstrated poise, tact, and diplomacy in engagements with various personnel.
• Skillful problem-solving within assigned responsibilities.
• Adaptability and resilience in managing stress and pressure.
• Capability to handle multiple tasks and competing demands in a fast-paced environment.
• Sensitivity and respect for confidentiality and diverse populations.

Founded in 1958, Community Blood Center (CBC) has served Kansas and Missouri for more than 65 years, delivering more than 150,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 70+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. CBC is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biopharmaceutical organizations. NYBCe's Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment, and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. CBC serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit savealifenow.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.