Certified Lab Assistant - Laboratory

CHRISTUS Health•Shreveport, LA

About The Position

The Certified Lab Assistant accurately evaluates specimen orders and enters clinical data and information into computer systems, including order entry, patient demographics, and results. The role identifies missing or invalid information and takes appropriate corrective action. It operates automated and semi-automated equipment according to standard operating procedures and communicates supply deficiencies involving specimens, paperwork, database information, or equipment to appropriate personnel. The position supports laboratory operations by documenting required information, maintaining equipment and supplies, handling biohazard and chemical waste, and assisting with laboratory policies and safety practices. The role follows established protocols for safety, infection control, security, compliance, and hazardous materials.

Requirements

Basic knowledge of microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, and biochemistry as related to infectious diseases.
One of the following national certifications or registrations is required: Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) by ASCP; Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA) by AMT; Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) by ASCP; Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) by AMT; or Certified Phlebotomy Technologist (CPT) by NPA.
A state license is required to practice in Louisiana: CLS - Laboratory Assistant by LSBME.
Associates must obtain required certifications for their respective positions within the designated time frame, in accordance with the CHRISTUS Health License, Certification and Registration Verification Policy.

Nice To Haves

Associate of Science degree preferred.
One year of experience in a clinical laboratory setting, or the length of time to complete a certification program, preferred.

Responsibilities

Meet expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies: Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders.
Accurately document required information, including processing logs, quality control, and reagent labeling.
Clean, sanitize, and maintain laboratory equipment and glassware.
Maintain and distribute laboratory supplies.
Package laboratory biohazard waste for disposal according to established standards and practices.
Maintain the laboratory coat supply.
Order, receive, stock, ship, and track laboratory equipment and supplies.
Ensure equipment is functioning correctly or schedule equipment repair or replacement.
Track equipment calibrations and preventive maintenance.
Maintain an inventory of consumables and reagents.
Assist in arranging disposal of biohazard and chemical waste.
Assist with enforcement of laboratory policies and procedures.
Assist in enforcing safety practices involving personal protective equipment (PPE).
Follow established protocols for safety, infection control, security, compliance, and use of hazardous materials.
Evaluate specimen orders and enter clinical data into computer systems; identify and correct missing or invalid information.
Operate automated and semi-automated equipment according to standard operating procedures.
Communicate supply deficiencies to appropriate personnel.