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Medical Laboratory Scientist
Company : Catholic Health Initiatives
Location : Lakewood, WA, 98499
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Salary : 36.28-56.37 HOUR
Date Posted : 8 January 2026
Job Summary and Responsibilities
Accurately analyzes and reports all tests ordered by the Medical Staff in a timely manner and according to laboratory procedures and regulatory guidelines to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Essential Key Job Responsibilities
Performs and reports waived, moderately complex, and highly complex test procedures on patient specimens adhering to the Section’s Standard Operating Procedures to ensure accurate and timely reporting
Provides excellent patient care through clinical correlation of results, identification of patterns of bias, rapid notification of appropriate caregivers of critical values, and completion of testing within established turn-around-time limits
Ensures that major automated equipment is operational by performing required maintenance, calibration and troubleshooting procedures; including contacting of instrument vendor for assistance or repair
Performs required calibration and quality control procedures and maintains records to ensure tests are being performed within established parameters
Performs proficiency testing as assigned and review results with laboratory clinical leaders
Assists in evaluation and generation of compliant documentation for the validation of new procedures and equipment to provide the physician with the most current laboratory technology
Participates in opportunities for continuing education and/or teaching, training according to the Section Performance Standards to enhance technical skills of students, trainees, coworkers, and self
Responsible for inventory of supplies, including providing assistance with monitoring supplies, ordering, and placing received supplies into storage
Completes all work and resolves or appropriately passes ongoing issues to incoming staff within the scheduled shift
As a representative of CommonSpirit Health, utilizes professionalism and HumanKindness while communicating with physicians, hospital staff, patients, coworkers, other stakeholders in laboratory operations, and all members of the general public, whether in email, instant messaging, telephone, or face-to-face interactions
Adheres to all regulatory requirements
Job Requirements
Required Education and Experience:
Bachelor's Degree in a biological or chemical science as defined by CLIA.
Required Licensure and Certifications:
Other state license not required
Certification Preferred:
MLS (ASCP) or equivalent (Per requirement sheet)
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Training:
Must be appropriately trained in clinical laboratory science as evaluated by the Director of the Clinical Laboratory
Where You'll WorkVirginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.
Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.
Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.
We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.
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Frequently asked questions
In Lakewood, WA, employers highly regard MLS (ASCP) certification or its equivalent, emphasizing proficiency in clinical laboratory science. While state licensure isn't mandatory here, possessing national certification boosts employability and ensures compliance with regulatory standards in medical lab environments.
The Puget Sound region, including Lakewood, shows steady demand for skilled Medical Laboratory Scientists due to its extensive healthcare network. Competition can be moderate, with preference for candidates who demonstrate advanced technical skills and certifications like MLS (ASCP), reflecting the area's emphasis on quality laboratory diagnostics.
Daily tasks include performing complex testing on patient specimens, maintaining and calibrating high-tech lab equipment, and ensuring results meet stringent quality standards. Communication with medical teams to relay critical findings is vital, supporting effective patient diagnosis and care in a fast-paced clinical setting.
Starting as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in Lakewood offers pathways into senior specialist roles, leadership positions, or specialized technical fields. Ongoing education and certifications, combined with experience at institutions like Catholic Health Initiatives, enhance prospects for advancement within this healthcare sector.
Catholic Health Initiatives values Medical Laboratory Scientists as essential to diagnostic accuracy and patient safety. Their integration involves collaboration with physicians, rapid communication of critical lab values, and adherence to compassionate care principles, aligning with the organization's mission of holistic healing.
Catholic Health Initiatives emphasizes professionalism and humankindness alongside technical expertise. Their labs focus on continuous education and cutting-edge technology, fostering a supportive environment that blends clinical excellence with a patient-centered care philosophy unique to their network.
Medical Laboratory Scientists in Lakewood typically earn between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience and certifications like MLS (ASCP). This range reflects the competitive healthcare market and the specialized skills required to manage advanced laboratory procedures effectively.
Proficiency with automated diagnostic equipment, meticulous quality control, and ability to troubleshoot instrument issues are crucial. Additionally, strong clinical correlation skills and familiarity with regulatory compliance help ensure accurate and reliable lab results within expansive healthcare systems.
Many believe this role involves only routine testing, but it actually requires critical thinking to interpret complex data and promptly alert clinicians about urgent results. It demands technical agility and communication skills, making it a dynamic and integral part of patient care teams.
Lakewood labs often reflect the Pacific Northwest’s collaborative and patient-focused culture, emphasizing teamwork and continuous learning. The integration of advanced technology with personal professionalism creates a supportive environment distinct from more transactional lab settings elsewhere.