JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
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Conduct pretransfusion testing (e.g., blood typing, cross-matching, antibody screening) to ensure compatibility.
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Perform diagnostic testing, including infectious disease marker testing, using manual and automated methodologies.
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Evaluate and interpret test results to ensure accuracy and report discrepancies promptly.
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Prepare and label blood products for transfusion, including red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate, ensuring proper storage and transport conditions.
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Perform irradiation of blood products as needed.
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Process and test donor blood to produce safe and effective blood components.
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Manage inventory levels of blood and blood products to meet operational needs and avoid shortages.
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Coordinate shipments of blood products to and from healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and consignment locations.
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Communicate with hospital staff to resolve urgent transfusion-related requests or product discrepancies.
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Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and automated systems to ensure optimal performance.
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Maintain detailed logs for all equipment, maintenance and performance checks.
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Maintain accurate and detailed records of laboratory activities, test results, and product distribution in compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
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Utilize laboratory information systems (LIS) to input, retrieve, and analyze data efficiently.
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Ensure proper chain-of-custody documentation for all blood products.
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Provide timely and professional communication with donors, healthcare providers, and team members regarding blood product availability and testing results.
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Assist in training and mentoring new staff, interns, and laboratory students.
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Participate in departmental meetings and cross-functional collaborations to improve laboratory workflows and processes.
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Respond promptly to emergency situations, including massive transfusion protocols or urgent cross-matching requests.
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Remain available for on-call rotations and flexible scheduling, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by operational needs.
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Adhere to strict cGMP procedures to ensure quality and regulatory compliance.
OTHER DUTIES:
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Performs other related duties as necessary to support Suncoast Blood Centers' mission, vision, and values.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
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Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related scientific field from an accredited institution.
Experience:
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Minimum of 2 years in a clinical laboratory setting with hands-on experience in blood banking.
Skills and Abilities:
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Proficiency in manual and automated blood banking techniques.
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
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Ability to work in high-pressure situations and meet strict deadlines.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interactions with healthcare professionals and team members.
Licenses/Certifications:
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Active Florida Clinical Laboratory Technologist License in the appropriate specialty area(s).
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Valid Florida Driver’s License with a clean driving record and reliable transportation.
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A proper Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) may be required if travel is included with the position.
LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS
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Ensure adherence to Florida’s labor laws, including wage and hour regulations, anti-discrimination laws, and workplace safety standards.
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Compliance with HIPAA and Florida privacy laws, ensuring all sensitive donor information is handled securely.
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Successful completion of background check and drug testing as per the Florida Drug-Free Workplace Act.
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Compliance with all SunCoast Blood Centers policies, procedures, and strict cGMP guidelines.
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Physical Requirements:
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Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 60 lbs frequently.
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Perform tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as pipetting, keyboarding, and assembling testing kits.
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Ability to stand, walk, kneel, and perform laboratory tasks for extended periods.
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Ability to travel to off-site locations as needed.
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May need to come in for an on-call assignment during off hours.
Environmental Requirements:
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Exposure to varying environmental conditions, including blood-borne pathogens and hazardous chemicals.
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Adherence to PPE requirements, including gloves, lab coats, and eye protection, is mandatory.
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Laboratory environment with strict temperature and humidity controls.
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Frequent interaction with donors, healthcare professionals, and external vendors.
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Rotating shifts and on-call availability required.
