Lab Associate II - Microbiology

Quest Diagnostics•San Juan Capistrano, CA

7d•$22 - $34•Onsite

About The Position

This non-licensed position provides general support for the Microbiology laboratory by following applicable policies and procedures. The Lab Associate prepares and processes specimens and supplies, supports laboratory testing activities, maintains accurate records and inventory, and helps ensure laboratory operations are organized, safe, and efficient. The position also supports training, quality control, process improvement, and communication with coworkers and clients.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, with a minimum of 2–3 years of laboratory experience.
For Lab Associates in Histopathology or Cytology: 1 year of histopathology, cytology, or other laboratory experience.
For Lab Associates in Histopathology or Cytology: 1 year of experience handling Protected Health Information (PHI) and other patient information using a Laboratory Information System (LIS).
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 1–10 pounds, occasionally weighing 11–25 pounds, and seldom weighing 26–50 pounds; objects over 50 pounds must not be lifted or carried without assistance.
Ability to perform repetitive tasks with the dominant hand.
Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods.
Good eye and hand coordination.

Nice To Haves

Two to three years of laboratory experience preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science or Chemistry preferred; coursework in other life science degrees will be evaluated.
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 and specimen problems and help resolve them or escalate them appropriately.
Prepare testing equipment, assist with preventive maintenance, and notify technical staff about equipment problems.
Assist licensed personnel or a delegated supervisor 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 for approval to use.
Prepare and maintain accurate reagent or media records using established procedures, formulas, stock solutions, and fixed-volume measuring devices.
Maintain consumable inventory, including ordering, unpacking, logging, dating, storing, and rotating reagents and supplies; restock benches and equipment inventory.
Sort and accession incoming specimens into the appropriate laboratory information system (LIS) and deliver them to the designated testing platform or department.
Enter data or transcribe previously recorded results into a computer for data reduction and licensed personnel review.
Tally workload data and prepare requested reports.
Assist with quality control procedures.
Prepare protocols, logs, and other appropriate documents.
Assist a licensed person with validation verifications and other applicable Research and Development activities.
Train other Lab Associates and support training programs where applicable.
Suggest improvements to efficiency and productivity, provide consistent feedback, and contribute to process improvement.
Demonstrate accountability and collaboration in daily work.
Answer and transfer phone calls or take accurate messages while maintaining client confidentiality.
Keep laboratory areas neat, clean, and organized.
Comply with health and safety policies, procedures, and practices, including use of 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 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.
Successful candidates may be eligible for annual performance bonus compensation.