Overview

CentraState Healthcare System, headquartered in Freehold, New Jersey is a leading non - profit healthcare delivery system in New Jersey. The System includes CentraState Medical Center a community-based hospital, an ambulatory campus, two senior living facilities and three free-standing community health pavilions, and a charitable foundation. As the 3rd largest employer in Monmouth County, CentraState Healthcare System continues to live up to its reputation of being a truly great place to work recently designated a Great Place to Work-Certified company.

 

CentraState Medical Center is seeking a Lead Medical Lab Scientist. Under the direction of the Lab Operations Manager and the Lab Supervisor, the Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist will assist with the oversight of the daily operations in the Core Lab. This includes maintaining a daily schedule of personnel to ensure all sections of the Chemistry and Hematology Laboratory are adequately staffed for the specimen volume. Oversee and participates in the technical operations including QA/QC checks, system maintenance issues, accuracy of test results, and general sample troubleshooting. Additionally, oversee laboratory staff in the performance of qualitative and quantitative test procedures. Act as a subject matter expert for technologists in the correlation of test data and implement solutions to problems in processing and delivering highly accurate patient data. Participate in QA/QC concerns, which relate to results data delivery and patient care. Be a direct liaison for calls from nursing units and physicians. Track and respond to questions relating to testing procedures and results.

Responsibilities

• Specimen Processing, Analysis and Testing:
• Evaluates specimens and test orders for acceptability and determines rejections according to established guidelines. Accessions specimens with accuracy.
• Labels specimens properly, divides samples as required, and obtains/distributes to proper sections and workstations.
• Prepares specimens for analysis according to established procedures for each specimen type.
• Stores specimens properly within the laboratory for future tests.
• Follow policies, procedures, and guidelines in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Performs necessary tests for each sample as required.
• Follows standard operating procedures for all testing.
• Meets acceptable turnaround time and productivity standards for the section.
• Recognizes testing errors/discrepancies or problems and notifies appropriate personnel.
• Resolves testing errors/discrepancies or problems.
• Result Reporting
• Calls and documents abnormal, critical or stat results according to established protocol.
• Exhibits technical judgment by correlating test results with diagnosis and/or compares previous results if available.
• Recognizes and resolves problems or inconsistencies.
• Ensures that records are accurate, complete, legible, and appropriately filed and stored.

• Ensure Regulatory Compliance:

• Stay updated on relevant regulatory standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP, NJDOH) and ensure adherence to guidelines.
• Conduct regular audits, proficiency testing, and quality control measures to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
• Prepare and maintain documentation for inspections, certifications, and accreditations related to laboratory operations.
• Train and Educate Staff:
• Deliver comprehensive training programs for clinical staff involved in POCT, including operators and supervisors.
• Provide ongoing education to staff regarding new testing procedures, protocols, and safety guidelines.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and quality by promoting best practices and standardization in POCT.
• Operational Oversight:
• Assists with basic supervision of staff and activities within laboratory sections during assigned shift to generate accurate and reliable results.
• Assists in planning, assigning, reviewing, delegating, and evaluating work of assigned staff to achieve quality testing results to achieve operational efficiency and to adhere to established policies, practices and procedures. This includes maintaining a daily schedule of personnel to ensure all the laboratory is adequately staffed for the specimen volume.
• Assists manager/supervisor to resolve technical, operational, system, and other related issues on a timely basis. Takes appropriate corrective action when needed. Assists in the oversight of as well as participates in the technical operations including QA/QC checks, system maintenance issues, accuracy of test results, and general troubleshooting.
• Communicates effectively with various staff including administrative, medical, nursing, and others to ensure proper coordination and understanding of services in the absence of the laboratory manager and supervisor.
• Oversee operations regarding turnaround time, productivity and prioritization of workload. Ensures adequate staffing for the section or shift including reassigning staff and monitoring staff schedules.
• Oversees technologists assigned to the workstations. Maintains harmony in the team and distributes workload equitably. Communicates and delegates effectively ensuring that section goals are met. Monitors and reports on turnaround time and identifies opportunities to enhance TAT standards.
• Evaluates acceptability and completeness of results performed by self and staff in the section. Participates in the performance evaluation process and new hire interviewing process for the section.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in medical technology, or in a physical, chemical, biological, or clinical laboratory science from an accredited institution.
• ASCP certification or equivalent required
• Proven experience working in a clinical laboratory or healthcare setting, with a solid understanding of laboratory operations and regulatory compliance.
• At least 3 years' experience in Chemistry/Hematology Clinical Laboratory
• In-depth knowledge of laboratory principles, methodologies, and devices
• Familiarity with relevant regulatory guidelines (e.g. CLIA, CAP) and accreditation processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot technical issues effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with various stakeholders and deliver training programs
• Detail-oriented mindset with a commitment to accuracy and quality in laboratory practices
• Ability to work independently, prioritize, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficient in using laboratory information systems and data management tools (RALS, LIS etc)

About Us

CentraState Healthcare System, in partnership with Atlantic Health System, is a fully accredited, not-for-profit, community-based health system dedicated to providing comprehensive health services in central New Jersey. Beyond offering a wide range of advanced diagnostic and treatment options, CentraState is committed to being a valuable health partner, focusing on disease prevention, promoting healthy behaviors, and helping individuals of all ages live well.

 

Located in Freehold, CentraState includes a 284-bed acute-care hospital, a dynamic health and wellness campus, two award-winning senior living communities, a charitable foundation, and convenient satellite health pavilions. These pavilions offer primary care, specialty physician practices, and access to outpatient services such as lab work and physical therapy.

 

CentraState is proud to be among the less than two percent of hospitals nationwide to earn Magnet designation for nursing excellence five times. Additionally, it has been recognized as a Great Place to Work-Certified Company by Great Place to Work for four consecutive years.

 

Joining CentraState means becoming part of a pioneering healthcare facility committed to high-quality, patient-focused care. We invite you to make a difference in our community and advance your career with us. We support our employees with work/life balance initiatives, tuition assistance, career advancement opportunities, and more.

 

Discover why our employees love their jobs and being part of the CentraState family!

 

CentraState Health System offers a competitive and comprehensive Total Rewards package that supports the health, financial security, and well-being of all team members.

 

What We Offer:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Coverage (30 hours per week or above for full-time and part-time team members)
• Life & AD&D Insurance
• Long-Term Disability (with options to supplement)
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer match
• 401(a) Retirement Plan with employer contribution
• PTO
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Well-Being Rewards
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Fertility Coverage, Healthy Pregnancy Program
• Flexible Spending & Commuter Accounts
• Pet, Home & Auto, Identity Theft and Legal Insurance
• Growth Opportunity and Workforce Development Initiatives
• Continuing Education / Onsite Training
• A warm, welcoming company culture based upon mutual respect and a collaborative goal of providing excellent patient care
• Concierge Services with Work & Family Benefits
• Magnet recognized healthcare facility

Compensation Range: $33.00 - $52.80 per hour

 

The compensation above reflects the established range from CentraState Healthcare System (CSHS) for this position at the time the job was posted. CSHS considers many factors to determine compensation, including education, experience, skills, licenses, certification, and training.  As such, team member compensation may fall outside this range. 

 

Additionally, the compensation range reflects base salary and does not include extra shift rates or incentives tied to quality, productivity, etc., as applicable.

 

The benefits outlined also reflect CSHS' policy at the time of posting.  Benefits as are made available to other similarly situated team members of CSHS, although participation is at all times in accordance with and subject to the eligibility and other provisions of such plans and programs. CSHS may modify its benefits plans or programs at any time.

 

CSHS is proud to comply with all pay equity and pay transparency laws.

Employment Type: OTHER