Supervisor, Laboratory

Job Summary

Oversees the overall operation of the assigned laboratory, supervises assigned personnel, performs required testing and ensures the laboratory is in compliance with Cherokee Nation Policies and Procedures, Rural Health Guidelines and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA'88), and Commission on Office Laboratory Accreditation (COLA) regulations, or any other applicable rules, regulations and guidelines.

Job Duties

Routine duties shall include providing health care services to individuals eligible for services in accordance with the self-governance compact and funding agreement between the Cherokee Nation and United States executed under the authority of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.  Practices only within the boundaries of competence, based on documented education, training, supervised experience, state and national professional credentials, and appropriate professional experience.  Provides health services of a scope, quality, and quantity consistent with Cherokee Nation policies.  Oversees laboratory personnel and assures compliance with applicable rules, regulations and guidelines.  Collects laboratory specimens and ensures the specimens are collected appropriately and maintains integrity of specimens.  Performs testing of patient specimens according to set practices as required.  Identifies training needs and assures personnel receive training as needed.  Reviews methodologies to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable rules, regulations and guidelines.  Establishes, reviews, documents and updates quality control program for testing performed.  Operates and maintains laboratory instruments according to established protocol.  Performs routine maintenance, calibration, and standardization of all instruments within established timeframes.  Maintains records and compiles and submits reports as required.  Maintains inventory as required.  Prepares purchase requisitions according to set guidelines.  Ensures that all necessary remedial actions are taken and documented whenever significant deviations from the established performance specifications are identified and those patient test results are reported only when the system is functioning properly.  Establishes, participates and reviews quality control and assurance programs for laboratory services provided.  Enrolls the laboratory in an approved proficiency-testing program for the testing performed and that guidelines are practiced.  Establishes, reviews and updates written laboratory safety policies.  Maintains verifiable records at an institution or facility that has a published records retention policy that is equal to or exceeds the retention required by federal, tribal and/or state regulations.  Maintains the confidentiality of any information received from any person or source about a client/patient, unless authorized in writing by the client/patient or required by law or court order.  Complies with the applicable state and federal regulations in regard to the security, safety and confidentiality of any health services record created, maintained, transferred, or destroyed, whether the record is written, taped, computerized, or stored in any other medium.  Other duties may be assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Directly supervises 3 to 5 employees in the assigned area. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualifications

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT

Bachelor's degree from 4-year college or university or have graduated from a Medical Technology School approved by a recognized accrediting organization.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT

An additional three (3) years related experience required.

COMPUTER SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Database software; Internet software; Order processing systems; Spreadsheet software and Word Processing software.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Must possess a valid driver's license with a driving history verified through a motor vehicle report that meets requirements for Cherokee Nation underwriting rating.  Must be a registered Medical Technologist and maintain throughout employment.  Basic Life Support (BLS) certification must be obtained within ninety (90) days of hire and maintained throughout employment.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Must have management and computer training, minimal clerical skills and have documented training and annual re-evaluation of laboratory procedures and operation of instruments. 

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

Must meet and maintain pre-employment and periodic background investigation and adjudication for child care.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT  

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.