| The incumbent serves as a medical technician for the Pathology and Laboratory Service within Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VAMC. He/She develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results and is responsible for performing procedures in the areas of chemistry (special chemistry and toxicology), hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, immunology, microbiology specimen processing, and specimen procurement and processing. Duties include but are not limited to: Operates and maintains a variety of complex instrumentation that are used in the performance of the following testing methods: Hematology; Urinalysis; Coagulation; Chemistry/Special Chemistry; Microbiology The incumbent will be expected to have skills and training to rotate and perform varied and complex testing procedures through all of the major sections in the clinical laboratory. The incumbent will be able to select, perform, evaluate and monitor the performance of test procedures both manually and on testing equipment. The incumbent will be able to recognize and react to indicators of malfunction and when appropriate, locate and implement corrective action with minimal direction or comprehensive procedures. Using medical procedures, the technician obtains samples of blood or other body fluids or substances. Ensures safe and non-traumatic processes are used with critical concern for the donor and for the quality of the specimen while using standard aseptic procedures and safeguards. Controls contaminated or potentially dangerous specimens in accordance with accreditation agency requirements. The incumbent prepares slides, smears, cultures, etc., of extremely delicate or otherwise volatile specimens, using critical concern for the quality of the specimen given the procedure to be used for test or examination. The incumbent performs microscopic evaluations of specimens when required. The medical technician uses a high degree of laboratory expertise to determine the validity of results and the potential causes for invalid results. The medical technician establishes minimum acceptable criteria for control/documentation/ protocol pertaining to test or examination procedures. The incumbent accepts responsibility for the accuracy of the results and for the adequacy of the results in furthering the clinical objectives. He/she performs tests that are new and involve very fine distinctions. Typically, many extremely delicate and exacting steps are required, and the instrumentation is elaborate and complex. The incumbent will spend 25% of the time or more working independently troubleshooting, completing highly complex tasks such as PCR testing, manual differentials and urine microscopy, performing complex maintenance, or performing manual testing with basic procedures. The incumbent must use education, knowledge, and specialized expertise to perform these tasks. All of the above responsibilities, duties, and expectations are approved by the Pathologists with only infrequent random review of testing, reporting or troubleshooting or as deemed necessary. Maintains and documents the laboratory facilities and equipment and controls supplies. Determines compliance with safety requirements, establishes inventory and equipment maintenance requirements, and maintains appropriate inventories and maintenance schedules. Maintains laboratory stock and orders materials, as needed. Maintains laboratory in a clean and safe condition according to agency or accreditation requirements. Calibrates and maintains laboratory instrumentation on timely intervals so as to minimize breakdown and delay of procedures Performs troubleshooting on the instrumentation from basic procedures. Must use experience, education and knowledge to extrapolate troubleshooting procedures with only minimal procedures or instructions. Conducts work according to Laboratory Safety Regulations and instructs coworkers and graduate students on safety policies and procedures. Functions as primary point of contact for implementation of safety regulations and safe working conditions and is accountable to supervisor to report conditions and progress on eliminating discrepancies Maintains and controls laboratory records. Incumbent is responsible for presenting the data to the supervisor in a logical and systematic fashion. As such, the technician is responsible for some data analysis including arithmetic calculations, algebra, graphing of data using interactive computer programs and preliminary statistical evaluations. Develops and maintains detailed records of all experimental or other protocols and results are neatly kept and catalogued in appropriate format. Data are often graphed or displayed in tables to highlight results. Records information pertaining to the storage of specimens or reagents and completes appropriate tracking/inventory system information. Histology (accessioning of Pathology specimens), Safety, POC testing, pipette calibration, timers and thermometer calibration. Performs other related duties as assigned Work Schedule: Varies Mon-Fri 0800-1630 or 0630-1500 Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Position Description/PD#: Medical Technician/PD80372A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required |
