Microbiology Technologist

Advocate Health; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Advocate Health in Charlotte, NC seeks a Medical Laboratory Scientist to perform microbiology testing across bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology, and molecular-based infectious disease panels. The role emphasizes specimen integrity, accurate EMR documentation, and QC compliance.

The candidate should hold MLS (ASCP) or be in-process and must obtain MLS/ASCP certification within one year of onboarding.

Qualifications

• MLS (ASCP) or M(ASCP) certification preferred.
• B.A./B.S. in Biology or Chemistry required with MLS/ASCP within one year.
• Experience in clinical microbiology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiology testing across bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology and molecular infectious disease.
• Assure specimen integrity during all testing phases.
• Document results in the EMR with high accuracy.
• Interpret resistance patterns and report appropriately.
• Perform QC to ensure material acceptability per guidelines.
• Train other technologists and residents as needed.
• Participate in process improvements and validation studies.

Skills

Microbiology testing

Quality control

EMR reporting

Laboratory training

Troubleshooting

Specimen integrity

Process improvement

Education

MLS (ASCP) acceptable

B.A./B.S. in Biology or Chemistry

Tools

Molecular assays

Bacteriology instruments

Job description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs medium to high complexity Microbiology testing procedures with a high level of quality in accordance with established protocols in bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology and molecular-based infectious disease Microbiology.
• Assures integrity of specimens during all phases of testing.
• Performs various slide preparations and staining techniques.
• Maintains complete documentation/competency for all steps of processes as outlined in standard operating procedures and policies.
• Analyzes, interprets, and records patient test results into the electronic medical record with a high degree accuracy.
• Interprets complex susceptibility patterns to determine antibiotic resistance patterns and mechanisms as well as inconsistencies in drug-bug combinations.
• Performs Quality Control processes to establish acceptability of use for of microbiological materials following regulatory guidelines.
• Responsible for proper compliance and maintenance of respiratory PPE.
• Participates in the training of other technologists, students, resident physicians, pharmacy technicians and Infectious Disease nurses.
• Takes part in annual education pertaining to select microbiological agents and/or emerging pathogens.
• Troubleshoots assay, reagent, and instrument issues.
• Participates in verification and validation studies for process improvements, new equipment, and new technology transfer at the discretion of the operations and/or Technical Director.
• Reports any problems that might adversely affect patient care to leadership in a timely manner.
• Organizes daily functions to meet productivity guidelines.

• Takes on independent projects and tasks beyond routine bench work.
• Contributes to ongoing process improvement efforts.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

• Update job knowledge, skills, and certification. Attend continuing education sessions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Works in a busy environment around physicians, technologists, and other hospital employees. Works in an area, which contains biohazardous (infectious) materials along with chemical, fire, and mechanical hazards. Each employee has the responsibility to work in a safe manner. May be required to stoop, reach, and lift light (20 pound) to moderately heavy (50 pound) loads.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE:

MLS (ASCP) acceptable. M(ASCP) preferred. B.A./B.S. in Biology, Chemistry, or related scientific discipline acceptable. B.A./B.S. in Biology, Chemistry or related scientific discipline candidates are required to obtain an MLS(ASCP) or M(ASCP) certification within one year of on-boarding.