Lab Associate II

Quest Diagnostics • San Juan Capistrano, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with general support for the laboratory, following all applicable policies and procedures. The role involves preparing and organizing samples, labeling, handling, processing, and storing specimens, identifying and resolving sample problems, preparing testing equipment, and assisting licensed personnel with pre-analytic and post-analytic testing activities. The associate will also prepare reagents and controls, maintain accurate records, manage inventory, sort and accession specimens, perform data entry, assist with quality control, and train other Lab Associates. The position requires initiative in process improvement, accountability, collaboration, and maintaining confidentiality and a clean, organized work environment in compliance with health and safety policies.

Requirements

• 1 year of histopathology, cytology or other laboratory experience.
• 1 year of experience handling Protected Health Information (PHI) and other patient information using a Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• High School Diploma with a minimum of 2-3 years of laboratory experience Required.

Nice To Haves

• 2 - 3 years of laboratory experience preferred.
• Bachelor’s Degree Biological Science or Chemistry (other life science degree coursework will be evaluated) (Preferred)

Responsibilities

• Prepares and organizes samples for testing, for example, sample racking, aliquoting and tube preparation.
• Responsible for labeling, handling, processing or preparation, and transportation and storage of specimens.
• Identifies sample problems and assists in resolving appropriately.
• Demonstrates problem solving ability on service and production issues.
• Prepares testing equipment and assists with preventive maintenance.
• Notifies appropriate technical staff of equipment problems.
• Assists licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA) in the pre-analytic and post-analytic testing activities, other than trainees, in a licensed clinical laboratory.
• Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed volume measuring devices.
• Submits documentation to appropriate staff for approval to use.
• Prepares and maintains complete and accurate records of reagents or media using established procedures, formulas, stock solutions and fixed volume measuring devices.
• Maintains inventory of consumable items including reagents and supplies.
• Orders, unpacks, logs, dates and stores reagents/supplies upon receipt and properly rotates stock for use.
• Performs inventory of laboratory items including restocking the benches and equipment inventory.
• Sorting and accessioning incoming specimens into appropriate LIS, then delivering to designated testing platform/department.
• Performs data entry or transcribes data from previously recorded results to computer for data reduction and prepares for licensed personnel's review.
• Tallies workload data and prepares reports as requested.
• Assists in the performance of quality control procedures.
• Prepares protocols/logs or other appropriate documents.
• Identifies specimen problems and demonstrates ability to appropriately resolve or elevate to licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA).
• Assists a licensed person (e.g.: CLS) with performance of validation verifications and other Research and Development (R&D) activities, as applicable.
• Trains other Lab Associates.
• Supports Training Programs, where applicable.
• Takes initiative in making suggestions to improve efficiency and productivity and provides consistent feedback.
• Is a resource for process improvement.
• Demonstrates leadership through accountability and collaboration in daily activities.
• Answers phones, transfers, or takes accurate messages.
• Maintains the confidentiality of client information.
• Helps to ensure the laboratory areas are neat, clean, and organized.
• Complies with all health and safety policies, procedures, and practices.
• Required to use personal protective equipment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Day 1 Medical
• supplemental health
• dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
• Best-in-class well-being programs
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program
• Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program
• Vacation and Health/Flex Time
• 6 Holidays plus 1 "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, plus buy-up option
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Annual incentive plans
• Matching gifts program
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
• Career advancement opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED