Medical Laboratory Technician – Student Health Center - UTK

The University of Tennessee Student Health Center is currently seeking a Medical Laboratory Technician. The Medical Laboratory Technician evaluates, interprets, and makes judgement calls regarding laboratory testing. This position performs testing procedures in all areas of a physician’s office laboratory including hematology, chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis, parasitology, electrocardiograms, and other special procedures. This position is to follow all laboratories, and clinical policies and procedures related to testing regarding specimen collection, quality control, result verifications, reporting, infection control, lab safety, working with a bi-directional lab information system, and is accountable to the lab supervisor. 

The Medical Laboratory Technician provides comprehensive lab testing duties based on CLIA standards, and medical policies and procedures. 

Performance of Laboratory Startup Procedures including:

1. Prior to any patient testing and the Medical Laboratory Technician performs a pretesting maintenance procedure on all instruments, machinery, and laboratory reagents to ensure reliability.  Troubleshoots issues if discrepancies are found.
2. Records all temperatures daily for the CO2 incubator, two refrigerators, laboratory freezer, and the room temperature of the laboratory.
3. Examines and interprets bacterial cultures from the previous day and any suspicious colony is to be inoculated and re-read the following day for confirmation of suspected result.
4. Reviews all reference laboratory results from the previous day, documents results, and distributes to the nursing staff.

Direct Laboratory Duties:

1. Performs venipuncture using aseptic technique. Follows universal precautions, and laboratory safety procedures.
2. Performs electrocardiograms and spirometry testing as ordered.
3. Performs daily quality controls for all tests which are assayed.
4. Examines and interprets lab specimens including those for hematology, chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis, parasitology, electrocardiograms, and other special procedures.
5. Documents all results in the appropriate lab log and distributes copies of lab results to nursing staff. Immediately contacts the attending medical provider when critical laboratory results are received.
6. Collects and prepares specimens to be sent to the outside reference laboratory for processing. Confirms all patient identifying information is accurate prior to sending specimens to reference laboratory.

Indirect Laboratory Duties:

1. Performs and passes proficiency testing from an outside laboratory testing entity to ensure competency.
2. Performs and passes annual OSHA training, FERPA/HIPAA and Title IX training.
3. Must maintain CPR certification.
4. Must complete 24 hours of continuing medical education bi-annually to maintain licensure.
5. Orders inventory supplies and ensure supplies have not expired.
6. Assists in the preparation for accreditation, state laboratory inspections, and Clinical Laboratory Improvement surveys (CLIA). 
7. Reports to the Lab Supervisor and perform duties requested by supervisor.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Associate’s degree from an accredited college approved Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program.
• Licensure: Must be licensed as a Medical Laboratory Technician by the State of Tennessee’s Medical Board.
• Experience: Must have two years of experience in a related laboratory setting.
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Must have the skill to perform venipuncture. Must have the knowledge, skills and abilities to interpret and analyze laboratory specimens. Must have the knowledge to troubleshoot laboratory results and data into the electronic health record. Must have the ability to multi-task and perform many laboratory functions simultaneously. Must obtain and maintain CPR certification on annual basis. Must complete 24 hours of continuing medical education bi-annually to maintain Tennessee licensure.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree 
• Experience: Previous experience working in a University Student Health Center and/or utilized Medicat as the electronic health record system. Previous experience working with the ORCHARD lab information system and on a bi-directional feed basis.
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Knowledge, skills and abilities to setup a lab information system within a health record practice management system.

Work Location 

• 100% Onsite, 1800 Volunteer Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37996

Compensation and Benefits 

• UT market range: Market Range 07
• Anticipated hiring range: Commensurate with education, experience, and licensure.
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

For best consideration applicants should submit the below materials:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Three professional references
• Copy of Medical license issued by the State of Tennessee

About The College/Department/Division 

The Division of Student Life is comprised of an outstanding group of professionals who create student-centered opportunities that contribute to a transformative Volunteer Experience. These opportunities allow students to grow their skills and knowledge outside of the classroom. From health and wellness to service and engagement, we provide opportunities where students exemplify the Volunteer Spirit, inspiring others to learn, lead, and serve.

Our departments provide essential services that support student success and future growth, fostering engagement, leadership, and wellness while enhancing belonging. Together, they create transformative experiences that help students achieve both academic and personal goals.