Lab Assistant
About The Position
Under the direction of the General or Section Laboratory Supervisor, the Lab Assistant performs specimen-processing functions, waived and moderate-complexity testing as defined by CLIA Section 493.1421 and approved by the Medical Director, and other non-technical duties as assigned. The role supports laboratory operations by preparing, receiving, processing, transporting, and documenting specimens; assisting technologists; and performing clerical and equipment-support tasks. The associate is expected to treat patients, families, visitors, and coworkers with respect, dignity, kindness, and empathy, and to follow applicable safety, infection-control, and regulatory requirements.
Requirements
- High school graduate or GED.
- Meet CLIA Section 493.1421 requirements.
- Computer literacy and fluency.
- Human relations and communication skills.
- Up to three months to become proficient.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, package, label, and send out specimens according to procedures; generate worksheets for reference laboratory specimens and prepare specimens for shipment.
- Receive specimens from the pneumatic tube system and from inpatient nursing units, outpatients, operating rooms, and the Emergency Department; log specimens including urine, blood, and body fluids.
- Centrifuge blood and urine specimens as needed, aliquot specimens, and prepare them for analysis.
- Perform waived and moderate-complexity testing as defined by CLIA and report results according to established protocols, including evaluating specimen acceptability.
- Support technologists by loading and maintaining instruments, assisting with reagent reconstitution, and thawing and pooling blood products.
- Transport specimens from the Central Processing Area to laboratory sections, file specimens after testing, and locate specimens requiring add-on testing.
- Check unfinished-work reports and daily checklists as needed, and support Central Processing staff with specimen receipt and telephone coverage.
- Follow universal precautions and laboratory safety policies; decontaminate the work area daily and minimize exposure to infectious diseases when handling blood or body fluids.
- Assist with maintenance and repair of clinical laboratory equipment within the scope of training.
- Perform clerical support duties needed for efficient laboratory operations.
- Complete mandatory competencies and training modules, review departmental policies and procedures, and adhere to safety policies and procedures.
- Follow applicable safety and health rules and perform work-related duties in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide services based on applicable principles of growth and development over the life span.
- Perform other assigned duties within the scope of practice to support efficient and cost-effective laboratory operations.
Benefits
- Competitive pay and comprehensive health coverage within the first 30 days.
- Generous paid time off and flexible work schedules.
- Retirement savings with employer match.
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
- Wellness, mental health, and recognition programs.
- Career advancement through mentorship and internal mobility.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
