Medical Laboratory Technician

Summary

Performs basic clinical laboratory testing to assist in the detection and diagnosis of disease. All functions are performed with consideration of age-specific patient needs. Escalates unusual situations to a Medical Technologist or Manager for guidance.

Employees are expected to demonstrate Brown University Health’s core values:

• Compassion
• Accountability
• Respect
• Excellence

Core Success Factors:

• Instill trust and value differences
• Focus on patients and community
• Collaborate effectively

Key Responsibilities

General Duties

• Understand and support the organization’s mission, vision, and values
• Meet job performance and competency expectations
• Deliver high-quality customer service
• Comply with hospital and departmental policies and procedures
• Complete required safety and compliance training
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives
• Communicate:
  • Unusual test results to providers
  • Delays in testing

Laboratory Operations

• Operate mechanical and semi-automated equipment
• Perform quality control (QC) and routine maintenance
• Maintain lab readiness (cleaning, stocking, setup)
• Clean and maintain equipment and workspaces

Technical / Functional Areas

Phlebotomy

• Verify patient identity and specimen integrity
• Collect blood samples from:
  • Neonates
  • Children
  • Adults
• Ensure proper specimen labeling
• Follow sterile techniques to prevent contamination
• Safely dispose of collection materials
• Prepare routine clinical and microscopic slides as directed

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

• Enter and edit patient requisitions and test orders
• Record test results (manual and non-interfaced)
• Document report updates accurately
• Operate laboratory information systems

Hematology

• Perform:
  • Blood counts
  • Cell morphology and differentiation
  • Sedimentation rates
  • Reticulocyte counts
  • Clotting studies

Blood Bank / Immunology

• Assist with preparation and dispensing of blood components:
  • Fresh frozen plasma
  • Platelets
  • Cryoprecipitate
• Perform:
  • Blood typing and Rh testing
  • Antibody screening and identification
  • Compatibility testing
  • Infectious disease serology
  • Cord blood testing
• Conduct quality control procedures

Microbiology

• Perform gram and special stains
• Culture specimens on appropriate media
• Identify microorganisms microscopically
• Conduct rapid antigen (EIA) testing
• Operate blood culture systems and STAT PCR tests

Chemistry

• Perform coagulation studies
• Conduct routine chemistry testing on analyzers
• Maintain QC within acceptable ranges (±2 SD)
• Perform minor equipment repairs
• Calibrate instruments

Safety Responsibilities

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Follow infection control and aseptic techniques
• Handle and store chemicals safely (per SDS guidelines)
• Maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment

Proficiency Testing

• Participate in external proficiency testing programs
• Maintain satisfactory results
• Adhere to Laboratory CLIA Proficiency Testing Policy

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Associate’s degree in:
  • Clinical Laboratory Science
  • Medical Technology
  • Chemical, Biological, or Physical Sciences
    OR equivalent education/experience per CLIA standards

Certifications

• ASCP certification (or equivalent) preferred or required
  OR
• Eligibility for certification through an approved program (NAACLS, ABHES, or similar)
  OR
• Meets CLIA qualification standards

Experience

• 1 year of clinical laboratory experience
• Clinical internship may substitute for experience

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to operate laboratory instruments and perform tests accurately
• Strong analytical and observational skills
• Knowledge of laboratory safety practices
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to provide patient-centered care across all age groups
• Physical and visual ability to perform detailed lab work

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Healthcare setting (hospital, lab, or clinical environment)
• Exposure to:
  • Infectious materials
  • Chemicals and hazardous substances
• Physical requirements:
  • Standing for extended periods
  • Lifting and carrying supplies
  • Working at laboratory benches
• Visual strain due to detailed specimen analysis
• May require rotational on-call coverage