Medical Laboratory Assistant in Training - Various Locations Available in Nova Scotia

Req ID: 147412

Location: Various Sites and Locations throughout Nova Scotia Health  
Department: Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
Type of Employment: Casual Relief (3%) 
Healthcare Position
Posting Closing Date: 31-Dec-24

Nova Scotia Health is the largest provider of health services in Nova Scotia, with some specialized services also offered to clients throughout Atlantic Canada. We’re on a mission to achieve excellence in health, healing, and learning through working together, which is reflected in the hospitals, health centres, and community-based programs we operate across the province. Our passionate team of professionals provides a variety of high-quality inpatient and outpatient services including academic, tertiary, and quaternary care, as well as continuing care, primary health care, public health, and mental health and addictions. Join a diverse team of innovators, collaborators, and creative thinkers today.

Nova Scotia Health employs professionals in all corners of our beautiful province. We believe there's a place here for everyone to call home, from vibrant cities with exuberant nightlife to quaint towns with picturesque trails. The work-life balance that comes with a Nova Scotia Health role means you'll have the time to explore, discover, and participate in that coveted Atlantic lifestyle. Visit us today and check out www.novascotia.com to see why more people from across the globe are moving here.

About the Opportunity

Under the direction of Management (or designate), the Medical Laboratory Assistant in Training (MLA in Training) works in collaboration with and supports members of the Pathology & Laboratory Medicine team by performing various functions relating to the pre-analytical testing. These functions can include: specimen procurement (adult & children)/receipt/processing, data entry, media/reagent/smear preparation, sterilization, clerical duties, and loading specimens on an analyzer. Additional responsibilities may include: supply management, troubleshooting, and customer service activities. 

Positive patient identification and accurate specimen handling are essential to the job. Duties vary based on the operational requirements of the laboratory.  The MLA in Training may be required to work rotating shifts, weekends, and/or holidays. The MLA in Training may also be required to interact with various stakeholders and clients. Incumbents must adhere to all applicable NSHA/PLM policies and procedures.  Strict adherence to safety and infection prevention and control procedures is required. MLAs in Training must be able to work independently, use good judgment, maintain a professional appearance (adhering to dress code policy) and demonstrate excellent customer service.

About You

We would love to hear from you if you have the following:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Medical Laboratory Assistant Program (applicants must complete an accredited MLA program and achieve certification with CSMLS within one year of hire date)
• Completed an accredited MLA program and waiting to achieve certification with CSMLS 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic understanding of medical terminology.
• Strong attention to detail
• Manual dexterity to handle sharp instruments, small objects and pour off samples.
• Must be able to perform procedures with a high degree of accuracy
• Ability to accurately number/label specimens and file slides/requisitions
• Ability to adapt to updates/changes in operating procedures
• Basic computer skills, Cerner Millennium experience is preferred
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the position
• Previous experience using pipettes
• Previous experience in a laboratory setting is an asset
• Access to reliable transportation as travel may be required
• Competencies in other languages an asset, French preferred

Please ensure your resume is up to date and includes all relevant education, experience, training, and certifications.

Hours

• Casual Relief Positions

Compensation and Incentives

$23.58 hourly

Once You've Applied

Thank you for your interest in this position. Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. 

​This is a Healthcare bargaining unit position. Preference is given to bargaining unit employees for unionized positions. Employees are encouraged to view their seniority hours and dates in their SuccessFactors online profile. Successful applicants changing unions, bargaining units, or employment status, are advised to seek clarification regarding their seniority, benefits, and vacation entitlement and/or usage, prior to accepting the position.

Nova Scotia Health is committed to being a workforce that is free of discrimination, values diversity, and is representative, at all job levels, of the people we serve. We encourage all qualified applicants who self-identify as Indigenous, Black/African Nova Scotian, Persons of Colour, Foreign Nationals/Newcomers, Persons with Disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ to apply and self-identify.