Medical Laboratory Scientist Infection Disease

Henry Ford Health; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Henry Ford Health in Detroit is seeking a detail-oriented Medical Laboratory Scientist specializing in Infectious Disease to join our clinical laboratory team. You will perform complex diagnostic testing to identify pathogens and support patient care.

The role requires 2+ years in microbiology or infectious disease diagnostics, MLS certification, and strong collaboration with physicians and nursing staff. You will operate advanced instruments, ensure quality and safety, and maintain thorough

Qualifications

• MLS certification or equivalent.
• 2+ years clinical lab experience in microbiology or infectious disease diagnostics.
• Proficiency in infection disease diagnostic tests.
• Knowledge of specimen collection, handling and processing procedures.
• Competency with laboratory instrumentation and automated analyzers.
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team.
• Knowledge of lab safety protocols and infection prevention standards.
• Proficiency with electronic Laboratory Information Systems (LIS).
• Strong communication skills for reporting findings and collaborating with clinical staff.
• Effective time management and organization.
• Problem-solving under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Perform and analyze infection disease diagnostic tests including culture, microscopy, molecular testing, and immunological assays.
• Prepare, process, and examine clinical specimens per established protocols and safety guidelines.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation with calibration and QC.
• Conduct antimicrobial susceptibility testing and interpret results for treatment decisions.
• Document all procedures, results, and QC in the LIS with accuracy.
• Identify and report critical values to clinical staff promptly.
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other professionals to provide diagnostic information.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and minimize testing delays.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Independent and team-oriented

Strong communication

Time management

Problem-solving

Education

MLS certification (ASCP/AMT)

Tools

Laboratory instrumentation

Automated analyzers

LIS/EHR systems

Job description

Job Description

We're looking for a detail-oriented and analytical Medical Laboratory Scientist specializing in Infection Disease to join our clinical laboratory team in Detroit, United States. In this role, you'll perform complex diagnostic testing and analysis to identify infectious pathogens, contributing directly to patient care and clinical decision-making. You'll work with advanced laboratory equipment and techniques while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, safety, and quality in a fast-paced healthcare environment. We're seeking someone who is passionate about precision diagnostics and committed to supporting our healthcare team through innovative and efficient laboratory practices.

• Perform and analyze infection disease diagnostic tests, including culture techniques, microscopy, molecular testing, and immunological assays with meticulous attention to detail
• Prepare, process, and examine clinical specimens (blood, urine, respiratory, and other body fluids) following established protocols and safety guidelines
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation, ensuring proper calibration, quality control, and comprehensive documentation
• Conduct antimicrobial susceptibility testing and interpret results to guide clinical treatment decisions
• Execute quality control procedures and maintain detailed records to ensure compliance with CLIA and CAP standards
• Identify and report critical values and abnormal findings to clinical staff in a timely and professional manner
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide accurate diagnostic information and support clinical decision-making
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and implement corrective actions to minimize testing delays and maintain workflow efficiency
• Manage multiple specimens and test requests while maintaining organized and efficient workflow
• Adhere to infection prevention protocols and maintain a safe laboratory environment for yourself and colleagues
• Document all testing procedures, results, and quality metrics in the laboratory information system with transparency and accuracy
• Demonstrate resilience and problem-solving skills when addressing complex diagnostic challenges

Qualifications: Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Medical Laboratory Scientist certification (ASCP, AMT, or equivalent)
• Minimum 2 years of clinical laboratory experience with focus on microbiology or infection disease diagnostics
• Proficiency in performing and interpreting infection disease diagnostic tests
• Strong knowledge of specimen collection, handling, and processing procedures
• Competency with laboratory instrumentation and automated analyzers
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and infection prevention standards
• Proficiency with electronic laboratory information systems
• Strong communication skills for reporting findings and collaborating with clinical staff
• Effective time management and organizational abilities
• Problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with advanced molecular diagnostic techniques (PCR, nucleic acid amplification)
• Knowledge of antimicrobial susceptibility testing methodologies
• Familiarity with infection prevention and epidemiology principles
• Experience in a hospital or reference laboratory setting
• Additional certifications in clinical microbiology or molecular diagnostics
• Demonstrated commitment to professional development and continuing education
• Experience with quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to support team members
• Experience working in a microbiology laboratory, reading and interpreting culture plates, identifying microorganisms, performing susceptibility testing, and familiarity with routine microbiology workflows and procedures.