Lab Associate I

Quest Diagnostics•Roanoke, VA

21h•Onsite

About The Position

The Lab Associate I is a non-licensed position that assists with general laboratory support while following applicable policies and procedures. The role prepares and organizes samples and specimens for testing, supports pre-analytic and post-analytic activities, helps maintain equipment and supplies, performs data entry and documentation, and contributes to quality control and laboratory organization. The position is based in Roanoke, Virginia, and is scheduled Monday through Friday from 2:30 PM to 11:00 PM, with rotational weekends. The pay range begins at $17.75 per hour. The employee may be eligible for shift differential of 10% for some or all second-shift hours and 15% for some or all third-shift hours; details are provided if an offer is extended. Candidates may also 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.
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: 1–10 pounds frequently and 11–25 pounds occasionally; objects weighing 26–50 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 demonstrate good eye-hand coordination.
Ability to use required personal protective equipment.

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 or specimen problems and assist in resolving them appropriately or elevate them to licensed personnel or the delegated supervisor, as applicable.
Prepare testing equipment and assist with preventive maintenance; notify appropriate technical staff about equipment problems.
Assist licensed personnel or the delegated supervisor with pre-analytic and post-analytic testing activities in a licensed clinical laboratory, excluding trainees.
Prepare pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed-volume measuring devices, and submit documentation 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, reagents, and supplies; order, unpack, log, date, store, and rotate stock appropriately.
Inventory laboratory items, including restocking benches and equipment inventory.
Sort and accession incoming specimens into the appropriate LIS and deliver them to designated testing areas.
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, and other appropriate documents.
Answer phones, transfer calls, or take accurate messages.
Maintain confidentiality of client information.
Help keep laboratory areas neat, clean, and organized.
Comply with health and safety policies, procedures, and practices, including use of required personal protective equipment.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical, supplemental health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost health assessment program.
Blueprint for Wellness® 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.
Potential annual performance bonus compensation.
Potential shift differential of 10% for some or all second-shift hours and 15% for some or all third-shift hours.