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State of Washington Classified Job Specification

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN 3

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LABORATORY TECHNICIAN 3
Class Code: 510I
Category: Science & Engineering


Definition

Supervises or leads technicians and/or assistants in a small laboratory or major specialized unit of a large clinical laboratory and/or may perform a wide variety of complex laboratory determinations.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Positions allocated to this class are filled by experienced Laboratory Technicians who are expected to independently perform complex laboratory procedures and interpret findings. Work is performed in two or more sub-disciplines such as radiation or water chemistry, metabolics, media preparation, parasitology or serology without regular supervisory review.

Typical Work

Conducts laboratory investigations, experiments and/or research activities, and prepares analyses of findings using a variety of statistical methods; 

Performs physical, chemical, biological, and microscopic analyses of laboratory specimens and cultures following established laboratory procedures and records results; 

Consults with research project leaders in developing and implementing laboratory procedures to be used in conducting and evaluating laboratory research experiments; 

Assists unit supervisor with special studies and training of other staff in sample preparation; 

Uses computer terminal to process analyzed data; 

Separates serological specimens by test; prepares standard solutions; 

Prepares, sterilizes, and conducts quality control procedures on laboratory glassware for specialized laboratory procedures; sterilizes culture media and conducts quality control tests on completed culture media; 

Prepares specimen kits and consults with and takes orders for kits and laboratory services; opens and distributes specimen kits received; 

Performs other work as required.

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of:  laboratory principles, practices, and techniques such as those used in bacteriology, serology, hematology, parasitology, histology, immunology, organic and biochemistry, tissue culture, microscopy, clinical and pathological testing; laboratory equipment maintenance, operation and calibration; laboratory supplies and reagents; report preparation and quality control. 

Ability to: use laboratory equipment and techniques; understand and follow complex written and oral instructions, formulae, and charts; prepare clear and concise reports; record and compile research data using arithmetic and statistical procedures for interpretation; maintain cooperative working relationships with others; distinguish colors; supervise technical laboratory personnel.

Legal Requirement(s)

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Desirable Qualifications

Five years of clinical, chemical, public health or related laboratory experience including one year at a level equivalent to Laboratory Technician 1 or higher. 

College education involving major study in a laboratory science may be substituted, year for year, for the required general experience. 

Completion of a course for laboratory assistants, approved by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, may be substituted for two years of the required general experience. 

Note: Selective certification may be authorized for training or experience in a specific laboratory field.

Class Specification History

Revised January 1, 1968 General revision
Revised May 5, 1972 Revises minimum qualifications
Revised February 15, 1985 Revises definition, general revision, adds distinguishing characteristics
Revised March 3, 1986 Revises definition
New class code and title: (formerly 53120 Laboratory Technician 2) effective July 1, 2007