About the role
About Us
Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts (PPLM) is the state’s leading provider of sexual and reproductive health care, nationally recognized for education and research. Our mission: ensure everyone in Massachusetts has access to compassionate, judgment-free care and education. We operate four health centers and offer telehealth statewide as part of a network of 600 Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide.
Join Our Team
We are seeking a detail-oriented and dedicated Medical Laboratory Technologist to support clinical laboratory operations, with a primary focus on sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing using molecular diagnostic technologies. This role is responsible for specimen processing, laboratory testing, quality control, instrument maintenance, and accurate reporting of laboratory results. The successful candidate will work closely with laboratory leadership to ensure testing is performed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and organizational standards.
Your Day to Day
Laboratory Testing & Operations
- Perform routine STI testing using the Hologic Panther molecular diagnostic system and other laboratory technologies as needed.
- Receive, verify, process, and prepare patient specimens for testing.
- Conduct laboratory testing in accordance with established procedures and regulatory requirements.
- Review, document, and accurately report test results using the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
- Perform daily quality control procedures and evaluate results before releasing patient reports.
Equipment & Quality Assurance
- Perform routine instrument maintenance, cleaning, and operational checks.
- Identify testing issues, instrument errors, quality control concerns, or specimen discrepancies and follow established troubleshooting procedures.
- Maintain accurate documentation of testing activities, quality control, maintenance, and corrective actions.
- Participate in proficiency testing, competency assessments, training, and quality improvement initiatives.
Laboratory Support
- Monitor laboratory supply and reagent inventory and communicate replenishment needs.
- Follow laboratory safety procedures, including the handling and disposal of biological and chemical materials.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
- Collaborate with colleagues across departments to support efficient laboratory operations.
- Perform additional laboratory-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science from an accredited college or university, including at least one year of structured clinical laboratory experience;
OR
- Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, or biological science, plus at least one year of relevant laboratory experience and/or training following graduation.
In addition, qualified candidates will have:
- At least one year of laboratory experience, preferably in a clinical or diagnostic laboratory setting.
- Experience following standard operating procedures and performing laboratory testing with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Knowledge of specimen processing, laboratory quality control practices, and laboratory safety procedures.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate records.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience working with laboratory information systems.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience performing molecular diagnostic testing, including STI testing.
- Experience operating the Hologic Panther system or similar automated molecular diagnostic platforms.
- Experience using a Laboratory Information System (LIS), preferably Harvest LIS.
- ASCP certification (MLS or MLT) or equivalent certification.
- Experience working in a CLIA-regulated clinical laboratory.
Why Join Us?
We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer match
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Commuter Benefits
- A mission-driven workplace that values equity, inclusion, and belonging
PPLM is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and an equal opportunity employer.
We are committed to creating a workplace where all people are honored, respected, and valued. We believe our organization is stronger when individuals with different experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds come together in service of a shared mission.
Our workplace values guide how we work with one another:
- We Tend to the Team
- We Honor and Respect All People
- We Jump In
- We Try and We Learn
- We Care for Our Business
- We Return to Our Mission
We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage individuals whose experiences, perspectives, and skills can help us better serve our communities to apply.
Employment and advancement at PPLM are based on qualifications, performance, and organizational needs, without regard to any protected characteristic under applicable law.
PPLM is committed to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the application and interview process.
This position is part of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Based on a 37.5 hour work week