CLASS TITLE:                      PRINCIPAL CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENTIST

CLASS DEFINITION:

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

To plan, direct and coordinate the work of a unit of a clinical laboratory within the field of specialization indicated by the title within the group; to perform the most complex tests; and to do related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Works under the general direction of a superior; work is reviewed for conformance to general instructions, established policies and accepted practices.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

As required, plans, organizes, supervises and reviews the work of professional and sub-professional laboratory staff members. 

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:

To be responsible for the work of a unit in the clinical laboratory within the field of specialization indicated by the title within the group such as:

the hematology, chemistry, serology, transfusion and microbiology laboratories or as required any combination thereof; 

To perform all levels of testing in an area including those of the most complex nature.

To analyze and interpret findings and to present conclusions and recommendations through the submission of analytical reports to superiors, the medical profession, other public health and regulatory agencies, the public, private clinical laboratories and clinics.

To prepare and present scientific papers and lectures.

To review, analyze, and evaluate scientific reports prepared by subordinates and make recommendations regarding their release and implementation.

To represent the unit at meetings, conferences, and to the public.

To lead and instruct laboratory personnel in the application of proper and effective laboratory methods and techniques.

To supervise the effective utilization, maintenance, and adjustment of instruments and equipment.

To develop and implement and in-service and continuing education training program.

To coordinate and integrate the efforts of the laboratory unit with other units and personnel in the institution or department.

To evaluate the activities of the assigned laboratory and the performance of laboratory staff and to submit evaluation to the superior with recommendations for any required courses of action to improve output and/or efficiency.

To organize and participate in quality assessment and improvement programs.

To direct and conduct quality control programs.

To seek solutions to testing difficulties or problems that arise in the laboratory or field by conducting experimental work and library research or through discussions with authorities in the field.

To supervise and participate in various experimental laboratory work to devise more effective testing methods and techniques in order to improve and/or broaden, where possible, existing laboratory procedures.

To enforce all applicable governmental laws and regulations that apply to assigned laboratory operations and personnel.

To assist  in establishing and to enforce all applicable institutional policies and procedures to assure that legal requirements relating to the provision of laboratory services are met.

To assist in establishing procedures and to monitor and enforce compliance with regulations, policies, and procedures relating to laboratory safety.

To participate in hiring, orientation and evaluation of employees.

To formulate area goals to coincide with the overall goals of the laboratory.

To organize and maintain literature resources in the area or areas of unit specialty.

To develop and maintain a data management system utilizing the latest computer technology available.

To outline and supervise students' course of study and practice within the unit in consultation with the education coordinator.

To do related work as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR APPOINTMENT:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND CAPACITIES:

A thorough knowledge of standard laboratory instruments and equipment and the techniques and procedures concerning their use; a thorough knowledge of the basic and advanced theories, principles, and practices of Clinical Laboratory Science; a working knowledge of the literature and current developments in the field of Clinical Laboratory Science; the ability to exercise judgment in preparing specimens for testing, determining appropriate test procedures and interpreting test results; the ability to perform Clinical Laboratory Science tests with a high degree of accuracy and precision; the ability to plan, organize, and supervise the staff and operations of a laboratory unit; the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, the medical staff and subordinates; the ability to prepare accurate and concise reports; and related capacities and abilities.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

EDUCATION:

Such as may have been gained through graduation from a college of recognized standing with a bachelor's degree in medical technology or with a major in biology or chemistry; and 

EXPERIENCE:

Such as may have been gained through considerable employment as a Clinical Scientist performing more complex tests with supervisory responsibility.

OR:    any combination of education and experience that shall be substantially equivalent to the above education and experience.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

Must meet the requirements for licensure as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist as required by Rhode Island law and regulations.