SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENTIST

DEFINITION
Under direction, to do technical laboratory testing and analysis; to keep records of examinations made and findings; and to do other work as required.

TYPICAL TASKS
Performs a variety of examinations and control tests such as hematological, serological, bacteriological, parasitological and chemical to determine the absence or presence and the nature of diseases or abnormal conditions; draws and examines blood and other smears; makes chemical determinations of blood and urine; types and cross-matches blood and makes blood counts; prepares and examines culture media, stains and reagents; prepares specimens for microscopic examination; performs tests ordered by physicians; conducts quality control testing; prepares specimens for mailing to other laboratories for analysis; sets up and cares for laboratory equipment and apparatus; charts, tabulates and keeps records of tests and submits reports; compiles data and prepares reports regarding laboratory services performed; confers with medical personnel; obtains materials for smears, including urethral specimens.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge:

Working knowledge of:

• Chemical, bacteriological, serological, hematological and parasitological principles, procedures, techniques, equipment and terminology used in the laboratory diagnosis of disease and abnormal conditions;
• Principles and practices of clinical laboratory work;
• Use and care of laboratory equipment;
• Preparation, mounting and staining of specimens.
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Ability to:

• Operate technical laboratory equipment;
• Perform standardized laboratory tests skillfully;
• Analyze situations accurately and take effective action;
• Set up laboratory equipment and make quick and accurate tests and analysis;
• Understand and carry out oral and written directions;
• Keep accurate records and prepare reports;
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Detect equipment not functioning properly and substitute alternative testing method.

Training and Experience:
Any combination of education and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying, unless otherwise specified. A typical way to obtain these knowledge and abilities would be:

Completion of college course work in the biological or physical sciences and completion of an approved apprenticeship in technical laboratory work.

Special Requirements/Conditions:

License/Certificate Requirements:  Upon appointment, possession and maintenance of a valid California Class C driver license issued by the State Department of Motor Vehicles. Possession of a valid Clinical Laboratory Scientist License issued by the California State Department of Health Services.

PREVIOUS CLASS TITLES: Clinical Laboratory Technologist
Bargaining Unit: 41
EEOC Job Category: 02
Occupational Grouping:
Workers Comp Code: 0290