Job Description
Who we’re looking for:
The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Trainee/1 with the Hematopathology Team at Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center.
The Hematopathology group is a dynamic, high-impact laboratory team specializing in clinical flow cytometry and hematopathology diagnostics. Our work directly supports patient care by identifying complex hematologic malignancies and immune disorders with precision and speed. This MLS Trainee/1 role offers the excitement of working with cutting-edge technology and automation, close collaboration with world-renown pathologists and researchers across UW Medicine and Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center, and the opportunity to contribute to continuous innovation that advances patient outcomes. Our Flow Cytometry and Pathways teams value collaboration, scientific rigor, and compassion – each case we handle directly impacts lives across the Pacific Northwest and reflects our shared commitment to excellence in laboratory medicine.
Work schedule:
- Monday – Friday with rotating weekends and holidays
What you’ll contribute:
The MLS Trainee/1 will be responsible for high complexity flow cytometric testing for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring of patients with hematopoietic disorders, which includes performance of the following duties:
- Preparation of peripheral blood, bone marrow, tissue (fresh, frozen, or paraffin-embedded), cellular body fluids, sorted cells, and cell line samples according to established procedures.
- Review, analyze, and generate preliminary reports from flow cytometry data.
- Review test results and quality control data for acceptability according to established procedures.
- Operate and troubleshoot laboratory instruments including performing calibrations and preventative maintenance.
- Organize and prioritize workload in an efficient manner.
- Entry of test results in the EHR/LIS.
- Assist in instruction and training of new employees, postdoctoral fellows, residents, and students.
- Follow established procedures for test performance and troubleshooting and assist in developing new procedures as needed.
- Answer phone calls and address questions from customers or other lab personnel.
- Understand and master technical knowledge for Flow Cytometry to work independently in performing all aspects of testing.
- Understand and apply a working knowledge of the laboratory information system (LIS) and other computer systems.
- Perform laboratory work accurately.
- Perform other duties as required.
What you’ll need:
Requirements for an MLS Trainee :
- Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
- Eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months from date of hire. Failure to attain the certification within 18 months of date of hire may result in a recommendation for termination.
Requirements for an MLS 1 :
- Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
- Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division AND
- One (1) year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee. Up to one (1) year of on-the-job experience performing clinical testing in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward the experience requirement.
Desired qualifications:
- Knowledge of flow cytometry principles
- Experience with BD FACS Lyric cytometers and BD Aria cell sorters
- Knowledge of monoclonal antibodies
- Knowledge of hematopoietic malignancies
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
What we offer:
- Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
- State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
- Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
- Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
- Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:
A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of