Location: Charlottesville, VA
Reports to: Blood Bank Supervisor / Laboratory Manager
Type: Full-time
Shifts: 2nd Shift (Evening) and 3rd Shift (Overnight)
Salary Range: $27.84 - $44.54 per hour

Job Summary:

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) for the Blood Bank department is responsible for performing complex blood bank testing, including pre-transfusion testing, antibody identification, blood typing, and the preparation of blood products. The role ensures compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards and requires working closely with healthcare providers to support patient care. This position is for the 2nd and 3rd shifts, covering evening and overnight hours.

Key Responsibilities:

• Blood Bank Testing and Analysis:

  • Perform routine and complex blood bank testing, including ABO/Rh typing, antibody screening and identification, compatibility testing, and direct antiglobulin tests (DAT).
  • Process and release blood products for transfusions in a timely manner to ensure patient safety and satisfaction.
  • Investigate and resolve serologic discrepancies and antibody identification using advanced techniques.

• Quality Control and Compliance:

  • Ensure all procedures follow the guidelines and regulations set forth by AABB, FDA, CAP, and CLIA.
  • Perform and document quality control testing and equipment maintenance, ensuring all blood bank instruments are functioning properly.
  • Assist with validation and calibration of equipment, reagents, and testing procedures.
  • Monitor, document, and troubleshoot quality issues promptly, ensuring that corrective actions are taken to maintain compliance and accuracy.

• Collaboration and Communication:

  • Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other clinical staff to communicate test results and ensure prompt delivery of blood products.
  • Serve as a resource for clinical staff regarding blood bank policies, procedures, and transfusion protocols.
  • Communicate critical or unexpected results to healthcare providers promptly.

• Inventory and Blood Product Management:

  • Maintain inventory of blood products and components, ensuring adequate supply for routine and emergency transfusions.
  • Perform preparation, labeling, and issuing of blood products, including red cells, plasma, platelets, and cryoprecipitate.
  • Manage special blood products requests, such as irradiated, leukoreduced, or HLA-matched units, in compliance with physician orders and patient needs.

• Documentation and Record Keeping:

  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of all tests, results, and blood product issuance in the laboratory information system (LIS).
  • Ensure proper labeling, handling, and storage of blood products according to regulatory standards.
  • Participate in blood bank audits and assist in preparing documentation for regulatory inspections.

• Problem Solving and Troubleshooting:

  • Investigate and resolve any discrepancies or unexpected results in testing, collaborating with senior staff or pathologists when needed.
  • Apply critical thinking skills to troubleshoot technical problems, including issues with equipment, reagents, or blood products.

• Training and Development:

  • Assist in training new staff members and laboratory students on blood bank protocols, procedures, and safety regulations.
  • Participate in continuing education and stay current on advances in blood bank technologies and procedures.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field from an accredited institution.
  • Completion of a NAACLS-approved MLS/CLS program preferred.

• Experience:

  • At least 1 year of experience working in a blood bank or transfusion services department preferred.
  • Experience in antibody identification and complex serological testing is highly desirable.

• Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of immunohematology, blood group serology, and transfusion medicine.
  • Proficient in blood bank instrumentation, methodologies, and testing protocols.
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills with a focus on attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work independently during 2nd and 3rd shifts with minimal supervision.
  • Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) and quality control procedures.

• Licenses/Certifications:

  • MLS (ASCP) or equivalent required.
  • SBB (Specialist in Blood Bank Technology) certification is a plus.
  • State licensure where required.
    

About Us:

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has more than 20 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. In addition, Lighthouse Lab Services will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

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