Medical Lab Scientist (MLS), Microbiology, 40hrs Evenings
The Medical Lab Scientist (MLS) in Microbiology performs high complexity laboratory tests, ensures accuracy of results, and reports findings to pathologists and clinicians. This entry-level, full-time evening position supports patient care by contributing to accurate diagnostic testing within a healthcare team. Certification is preferred within two years, with opportunities for advancement upon credentialing.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Healthcare & Nursing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
- Perform microbiology testing including culture setup, organism isolation, identification, and susceptibility testing in a CLIA-regulated clinical laboratory.
- Verify and document test results; escalate critical or unusual findings to Pathologists and clinical teams in accordance with lab policies.
- Maintain quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) records; run and document daily QC and troubleshooting for instrumentation.
- Prepare and maintain specimens, reagents, and supplies; follow specimen handling and chain-of-custody procedures.
- Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on laboratory analyzers and instruments used in microbiology testing.
- Follow safety procedures, infection control practices, and hazardous materials handling per OSHA and institutional protocols.
- Contribute to process improvements, participate in competency assessments, and support training for new staff and students.
- Maintain accurate documentation in the laboratory information system (LIS) and other required records.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a Biological Science (required).
- Eligible to perform high-complexity testing under CLIA; college transcripts may be requested to verify coursework.
- Entry-level candidates and new graduates are encouraged to apply; previous clinical practicum or clinical laboratory rotation preferred.
- ASCP certification (MLS generalist or categorical technologist) is preferred and expected within 2 years of hire when applicable; attainment may support promotion to Medical Laboratory Scientist 2.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective written/verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work assigned evening shift (40 hours/week) and occasional weekends or on-call as required by the laboratory schedule.
- Ability to stand for long periods, handle specimens, and perform fine motor tasks required for bench testing.
Preferred
- Prior microbiology experience in a clinical laboratory setting (internship, practicum, or employment).
- Familiarity with automated microbiology systems, MALDI-TOF, PCR-based methods, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing workflows.
- Experience with laboratory information systems (LIS) and electronic documentation.
Compensation & Schedule
- Hourly pay range: $36.00 - $48.45 per hour. This is the base hourly wage range the organization reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for this position at this time.
- Schedule: Evening shift, 40 hours per week; on-site in Winchester, MA.
- Actual compensation will be determined by factors such as education, experience, certifications, shift differentials, and applicable laws. Additional pay practices (shift differentials, overtime, premium pay) may apply.
Workplace & Compliance Notes
- This role is onsite in Winchester, MA. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- As described by the client, certain routine workplace health requirements (for example, influenza vaccination) may apply; the client will comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws and will consider reasonable accommodations for medical conditions or sincerely held religious beliefs as required by law.
- Background checks and verification of credentials, certifications, and education may be required prior to hire.
Why Join
- Start or grow your career in a clinical microbiology laboratory with mentoring and a path for advancement after certification.
- Work on a multidisciplinary team that supports patient care and public health.
- Opportunities for continuing education and competency development.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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