Lab Assistant

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics • Salem, OR

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Lab Assistant works within specimen management at Salem Hospital and plays an essential role in ensuring laboratory specimens are accurately received, processed, and prepared for testing. The position supports timely, high-quality results that contribute directly to patient care. As part of a collaborative laboratory team, the Lab Assistant manages specimen flow, performs patient registration and test ordering, supports microbiology setup, and prepares specimens for in-house and reference laboratory testing. The role requires attention to detail, prioritization in a fast-paced environment, and a commitment to quality, safety, regulatory standards, and service to patients, providers, and colleagues.

Requirements

• Experience in team process, quality management, and problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Receive, verify, sort, prioritize, and process laboratory specimens while maintaining specimen integrity and meeting turnaround time expectations.
• Register patients and enter laboratory orders using Epic and the Laboratory Information System (LIS), ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with established procedures.
• Prepare and package specimens for testing at Salem Health and external reference laboratories, including microbiology setup and STAT specimen processing.
• Operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment, including the MPA; document equipment performance and report issues promptly.
• Collaborate with laboratory professionals, providers, and support staff to resolve specimen and workflow issues, answer questions, and provide customer service.
• Maintain adequate laboratory supplies and follow infection prevention and safety protocols.
• Contribute to a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Assist with training and mentoring new team members and serve as a resource for colleagues.
• Support changing workloads and staffing needs, including coordinating coverage for call-outs when needed.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package addressing mental and physical health, financial stability, family obligations, and professional growth.
• Professional development.
• Tuition assistance.
• Clear career pathways.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed