Lab Associate I

Quest Diagnostics•Pittsburgh, PA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lab Associate I is a non-licensed position that provides general laboratory support while following applicable policies and procedures. The role prepares, labels, processes, handles, transports, and stores samples; supports testing equipment and preventive maintenance; assists with pre-analytic and post-analytic activities; prepares reagents and controls; maintains records and inventory; and supports specimen accessioning, data entry, quality control, reporting, and laboratory organization. The position is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the Serology Tech Ops Support department, and is scheduled Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. The stated pay range starts at $20.23 per hour. Salary offers depend on factors including skills, training, experience, education, and applicable certifications. Successful candidates may be eligible for annual performance bonus compensation.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
For Lab Associates in Histopathology or Cytology departments, basic knowledge of operating non-complex equipment is required.
Working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
Awareness of factors that influence test results.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Communication and interpersonal skills to deal courteously and effectively with management, coworkers, and clients.
Ability to lift and carry objects frequently weighing 1 to 10 pounds and occasionally weighing 11 to 25 pounds; objects weighing 26 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted or carried. Objects over 50 pounds must not be lifted or carried without assistance.
Ability to perform repetitive tasks with the dominant hand, sit and/or stand for long periods, and coordinate eyes and hands well.

Nice To Haves

One to two years of laboratory experience.
Some college coursework; two to three years of college courses preferred.
Strong typing skills.
Other automation skills.

Responsibilities

Prepare and organize samples for testing, including sample racking, aliquoting, and tube preparation.
Label, handle, process or prepare, transport, and store specimens.
Identify sample problems and assist in resolving them appropriately.
Prepare testing equipment and assist with preventive maintenance; notify appropriate technical staff of equipment problems.
Assist licensed personnel in California or the delegated supervisor outside California with pre-analytic and post-analytic testing activities in a licensed clinical laboratory.
Prepare pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed-volume measuring devices, and submit documentation to appropriate staff for approval to use.
Prepare and maintain complete and accurate reagent or media records using established procedures, formulas, stock solutions, and fixed-volume measuring devices.
Maintain inventory of consumable items, including reagents and supplies; order, unpack, log, date, store, and rotate stock.
Perform inventory of laboratory items, including restocking benches and equipment inventory.
Sort and accession incoming specimens into the appropriate LIS and deliver them to designated testing.
Enter data or transcribe previously recorded results into a computer for data reduction and preparation for licensed personnel review.
Tally workload data and prepare reports as requested.
Assist with quality control procedures and prepare protocols, logs, or other appropriate documents.
Identify specimen problems and resolve or elevate them appropriately to licensed personnel in California or the delegated supervisor outside California.
Answer phones, transfer calls, or take accurate messages.
Maintain the confidentiality of client information.
Help keep laboratory areas neat, clean, and organized.
Comply with health and safety policies, procedures, and practices, and use required personal protective equipment.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical, supplemental health, dental, and vision benefits for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost Blueprint for Wellness® health assessment program.
healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one “MyDay” off.
FinFit financial coaching and services.
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
Employee stock purchase plan.
Life and disability insurance, with a buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.