Lab Aide, I

Helix•San Diego, CA

7d•$23 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

Join Helix's world-class, high-volume CAP/CLIA certified laboratory, transforming health organizations by weaving genomics into the fabric of healthcare. As a Lab Aide, you'll be at the forefront of our pre-analytical operations, working with a dynamic team that processes thousands of patient specimens daily. You'll gain hands-on clinical laboratory experience in a state-of-the-art facility, supporting accessioning activities, plating procedures, and the biohazardous waste program, while also getting exposure to at-home kit fulfillment services which builds and sends out the very kits that return to our lab. With clear advancement pathways, you'll grow from executing foundational tasks to becoming a subject matter expert and leader within the laboratory operations team.

Requirements

Associate's degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology
Course work must include completion of 60 semester hours from an accredited institution, with 24 semester hours of science courses (including 6 hours in chemistry, 6 hours in biology, and 12 additional hours in chemistry, biology, or medical lab technology)
0–1 year of experience in a clinical laboratory or healthcare setting (Lab Aide I); academic experience will be considered
Proficient computer skills (Excel, Microsoft Word) with exceptional accuracy in data entry
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Understanding of patient confidentiality (HIPAA) requirements
Developing knowledge of CAP and CLIA requirements
Ability to follow established procedures and work under direct supervision
Willingness to commit to a Tuesday through Saturday work schedule
Comfortable using AI tools (or open to learning them) to support day-to-day tasks

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology
Prior experience in a high-volume clinical laboratory setting
Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
Experience with biohazardous waste handling and disposal
Knowledge of pre-analytical specimen processing best practices
Demonstrated interest in process improvement and operational efficiency
Experience working in regulated environments
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently on routine tasks

Responsibilities

Work onsite in our CAP/CLIA certified laboratory located in San Diego, CA
Build at-home collection kits and support pick, pack, and send-out of at-home kits as part of fulfillment operations (approximately 20% of role)
Perform accurate scans to track kit status and maintain inventory levels
Receive, unpack, and verify patient specimens against requisitions with high accuracy
Perform specimen accessioning and data entry while maintaining sample integrity
Identify and flag specimen issues such as missing information or incorrect sample types
Execute plating procedures and operate automated equipment according to established protocols
Support and maintain the biohazardous waste program in compliance with regulations
Maintain a clean, organized laboratory workspace.
Coordinate handoffs between accessioning and supporting teams to keep specimen statuses accurate across teams.
Training new staff, troubleshooting complex specimen issues, and contributing to process improvement initiatives.