Microbiology Technologist

HCA Healthcare, Inc.; Fort Walton Beach (FL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

401(k) Plan with match

Tuition assistance

Paid time off

Job summary

HCA Healthcare Laboratory Services in Fort Walton Beach, FL seeks a Microbiology Technologist to perform stat and routine microbiology and serology testing under supervision. You will process specimens, run tests, and ensure quality control and compliance across the department.

The role emphasizes independent judgment, equipment maintenance, and adherence to regulatory standards to support timely patient results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Medical Technology-related field is required.
• National certification (AMT/ASCP) or willing to obtain within one year.
• Experience with microbiology, serology, and infectious disease testing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform stat and routine microbiology, serology, and infectious disease testing.
• Ensure compliant specimen processing and testing protocols.
• Maintain equipment through preventive maintenance and troubleshooting.

Skills

Microscopy

Serology

Infectious disease testing

Independent judgment

Quality control

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Medical Technology / Biomedical Science / Biology / Chemistry

AMT/ASCP certification

Tools

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

Job description

Panhandle Central Lab 1030 Titan Court Suite 102 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Experience the HCA Healthcare difference where colleagues are trusted, valued members of our healthcare team. Grow your career with an organization committed to delivering respectful, compassionate care, and where the unique and intrinsic worth of each individual is recognized.

Microbiology Technologist / Microbiologist / Micro Technologist in HCA Healthcare Lab Service Line performs both stat and routine microbiology and/or serology testing under the guidance of a laboratory supervisor, manager, or director. This role is critical in specimen processing, testing, and quality control, ensuring compliance with department policies, regulatory requirements, and accreditation standards. The Microbiology Technologist uses theoretical knowledge of laboratory medicine, along with independent judgment and problem-solving skills, to deliver timely and accurate results. Support the department in achieving its goals for service excellence, quality, regulatory compliance, financial performance, patient satisfaction a healthy work environment, and the seamless integration of department and multiple hospital activities.

What you will do in this role

• Independently perform specimen processing, stat and routine microbiology, serology, and infectious disease testing with precision.
• Ensure timely and compliant specimen processing and testing protocols are followed.
• Conduct preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Apply principles of laboratory medicine and exercise independent judgment to guarantee accurate test results and proper equipment functionality.
• Troubleshoot issues and implement corrective actions to resolve problems effectively.
• Adhere strictly to quality control and quality assurance policies to maintain the highest standards.
• Actively participate in Continuous Quality Improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory processes.
• Support departmental objectives related to service, quality, regulatory compliance, and patient satisfaction.
• Serve as a valuable resource to peers and customers, offering guidance and expertise.
• Assist in the orientation, training, and competency documentation of department personnel.
• Participate in accreditation inspections to uphold laboratory standards.
• Execute non-technical duties, including specimen receipt, processing, storage, retrieval, and submission for referral testing.
• Analyze proficiency testing samples according to provided instructions and within specified timeframes.
• Complete all necessary records and documentation pertaining to patient results accurately.
• Perform stat procedures within established turnaround time targets to ensure timely results.
• Review pending logs (OSR) and result logs, addressing any outstanding workload or communicating needs to staff relief.
• Perform quality control procedures as per protocol and complete all required documentation meticulously.
• Take appropriate corrective action when results fall outside acceptable guidelines.
• Operate equipment correctly and perform periodic maintenance according to schedule to maintain functionality.
• Perform equipment troubleshooting to resolve basic equipment malfunctions efficiently.
• Assist in monitoring reagents and supply inventories, utilizing them appropriately to prevent shortages.
• Handle all problem and/or critical laboratory specimens/test results according to established procedures.
• Communicate emergency and/or critical value test results to physicians or nurses via telephone promptly.
• Adhere to all safety policies and procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Protect sensitive and confidential information, ensuring patient privacy including adherence to company policies and standards regarding security protocols.
• Complete assigned courses and training on an annual basis to stay updated on best practices.
• Be available to work during disasters, supporting the laboratory's essential functions.
• Assist in the review and modification of department policies and procedures as requested to improve processes.
• Perform duties of a Complex Specimen Processor as required, demonstrating versatility.
• Participate in department-related projects and perform other duties as assigned, contributing to team goals.
• Prepare and examine specimens using various microscopy techniques.
• Culture and identify microorganisms from clinical samples.
• Perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing to determine effective treatment options.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of laboratory methods and best practices.
• Demonstrated expertise in microbiology, serology, and infectious disease processes, with the ability to correlate disease states and results.
• Comprehensive understanding of laboratory accreditation and regulatory compliance requirements.
• General knowledge of laboratory billing guidelines and procedures.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Effective teamwork and organizational skills to collaborate efficiently with colleagues.
• Ability to train others, sharing knowledge and expertise effectively.
• Ability to assimilate and analyze information, recommending appropriate actions.
• Effective and proactive problem-solving and decision-making skills to address challenges.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, develop plans, and execute them effectively.
• Ability to view work situations from a broad context, understanding the larger implications.
• Proficiency with information system computer functions relevant to job duties.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Word for documentation and communication.
• Ability to manage stress appropriately in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure, ensuring accuracy and efficiency; acting with professionalism and empathy.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously, maintaining focus and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently, demonstrating self-motivation and initiative.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

Experience & Education

• Bachelor's Degree or higher in Medical Technology, Biomedical Science, Biology, or Chemistry required.
• Individuals who were previously qualified under CLIA and serving as testing personnel in a CLIA-certified laboratory as of December 28, 2024, and have done so continuously since December 28, 2024 are considered qualified.

Certification/License

• National Certification as a Medical Technologist required – AMT / ASCP certification acceptable. Non-certified individuals must obtain certification within one year of hire.
• State license where required (CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MT, NV, NY, ND, RI, TN, WV).
• Specialist in Microbiology (SM) certification is desired.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health and telemedicine services
• Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services
• Time away from work programs for paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence
• Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships, retirement readiness tools, rollover support and financial wellbeing counseling
• Education support through tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing
• Additional benefits for fertility and family building, adoption assistance, life insurance, supplemental health protection plans, auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection and consumer discounts

Learn More About Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

HCA Healthcare Laboratory Services is a full-service provider of clinical laboratory and anatomic pathology services, providing hospitals, physicians, and clients with timely diagnostic information for patient care. Our infrastructure includes a fully automated esoteric core laboratory in Fort Lauderdale, a histology and microbiology operation in Largo, Florida, and a network of hospital-based rapid-response laboratories in four HCA Healthcare divisions in Florida. Our core laboratories support over 250 acute and rehab hospitals, physician practices, surgery centers, and commercial accounts.

HCA Healthcare has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute more than ten times. In recent years, HCA Healthcare spent an estimated $3.7 billion in cost for the delivery of charitable care, uninsured discounts, and other uncompensated expenses

"There is so much good to do in the world and so many different ways to do it." - Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.

HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.