Job Description:

Job Posting Title

Laboratory Scientist I

Agency

340 OKLAHOMA STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Supervisory Organization

340 Public Health Lab

Job Posting End Date (Continuous if Blank)

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the posting end date above.

Estimated Appointment End Date (Continuous if Blank)

Full/Part-Time

Full time

Job Type

Regular

Compensation

The annual salary for this position is up to $51,800.00, based on education and experience.

Job Description

Position Summary

Positions within this professional job family are assigned responsibilities for performing work associated with clinical, analytic and/or environmental laboratory testing. Laboratory specialty areas will include biochemistry, chemistry, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology and/or biochemical techniques. This is the basic level of this job family where incumbents perform laboratory bench work related to a specific set of routine clinical, analytical and/or environmental laboratory tests while under close supervision.

Position Responsibilities/Essential Functions

The functions within this job family will vary by level, but may include the following:

• Perform laboratory tests of varying complexity using standard procedures on human, animal or environmental specimens/samples for the purpose of providing information for the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of disease and/or surveillance and/or epidemiologic purposes


• Receive, sort and distribute specimens to appropriate laboratories/laboratory sections.  


• Assess specimens for acceptability for testing.


• Record information in the laboratory information system (LIS) relative to patient demographics, specimen/sample collection, identification, preservation, processing, quality control, test results and specimen referral.


• Report test results using a laboratory information system (LIS). 


• Provide consultation regarding the appropriateness of testing ordered and the interpretation of test results. 


• Manipulate potentially hazardous human, animal, or other specimens/samples and analytic reagents in a safe and responsible manner within the laboratory setting.


• Follow all safety procedures and maintain safety equipment, as needed.


• Conduct statistical analyses and evaluate test results relative to specimen/sample information and established reference materials.


• Assess potential problems that may arise in performance of testing and initiate appropriate action, as may be required.


• Adhere to the laboratory's quality control policies, and periodically assess procedures and identify problems that may adversely affect test performance.


• Prepare and maintain quality control materials to be used in laboratory testing.


• Perform maintenance and function checks on electronic and mechanical equipment and other operations necessary for proper test performance and accurate and reliable laboratory test results and reporting.


• Evaluate and document performance of individuals responsible for testing by direct observation of specimen/sample handling and test performance. 


• Assess training needs of laboratory personnel and participate in regular in-service training and appropriate education on laboratory safety and testing procedures.


• Prepare and present laboratory relevant information at local, regional or national meetings.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Education and Experience

Requirements at this level consist of a bachelor’s degree in biological or physical science, or a closely related field.

Valued Knowledge, skills and abilities

Required at this level include knowledge of basic principles and practical applications of chemistry, biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology and/or related laboratory specialties; and of the hazards of laboratory activities and related safety practices. Ability is required to perform basic microbiological, immunological, molecular and/or biochemical techniques; to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; to follow instructions and to express ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This position is set in a laboratory environment. While performing the duties of the job, employees are frequently required to stand, walk, lift, and reach.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability.

Current State of Oklahoma employees must apply for open positions through their Workday account. Go to Careers app on WD home screen>Click on 'Find Jobs-Internal State of Oklahoma'.

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