Lab Associate I

Quest Diagnostics

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This non-licensed position provides general support for the laboratory and follows applicable policies and procedures. The role is based in San Juan Capistrano, California, in the LCMSMS department. The stated schedule is Friday through Tuesday, 8:00 PM to 4:30 AM, varying based on business needs. The Lab Associate prepares and organizes samples and specimens, supports testing activities and equipment maintenance, prepares reagents and controls, and maintains laboratory inventory and records. The role also includes entering and organizing data, assisting with quality control, addressing specimen issues, communicating with staff and clients, and maintaining a clean, safe, and confidential laboratory environment. Duties may vary and may include other assigned tasks.

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, co-workers, and clients.
Physical ability to perform repetitive tasks with the dominant hand, sit and/or stand for long periods, and use good eye-hand coordination.
Ability to lift and carry objects weighing 1–10 pounds frequently and 11–25 pounds occasionally; objects weighing 26–50 pounds are seldom lifted or carried. Objects exceeding 50 pounds must not be lifted or carried without assistance.

Nice To Haves

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

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 a delegated supervisor outside California 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, 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 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.
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.
Prepare protocols, logs, and other appropriate documents.
Identify specimen problems and resolve or elevate them appropriately to licensed personnel in California or a delegated supervisor outside California.
Answer, transfer, or take accurate messages on phone calls.
Maintain 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.
Potential annual performance bonus compensation.
Potential shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift.