Laboratory Assistant

BioReference Health, LLC•Elmwood Park, NJ

13d

About The Position

Laboratory Assistants perform routine and specialized assignments associated with moderately complex testing. Under the direction of Clinical Laboratory Technologists/Scientists, they demonstrate proficiency and understanding of procedures in their laboratory areas. Management may assign additional tasks. The role supports specimen preparation and handling, laboratory maintenance, supplies and reagents, worksheets and pending reports, and related specimen and instrument processes. Assistants follow identification, safety, quality, and regulatory procedures and participate in department training, meetings, and process improvement. BioReference, an OPKO Health company, describes itself as the largest full-service specialty laboratory in the United States, with a focus on oncology, urology, and women's health. It offers comprehensive test solutions and expertise based on a 40-year legacy of science and service.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Familiarity with Microsoft Office.
Good communication skills.
Ability to work as a team player.
Problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

Laboratory work experience preferred.
Previous exposure to the laboratory and laboratory terminology is a plus.

Responsibilities

Prepare specimens for testing in accordance with laboratory criteria.
Perform daily maintenance and replenish supplies and reagents as needed.
Assist with disposing of biohazard bags from the main laboratory into drums.
Generate, distribute, and monitor worksheets and pending reports.
Register, map, retrieve, and discard specimens and paraffin blocks as needed.
Prepare instrument-specific or department-specific reagents and buffers as needed.
Request and retrieve samples from other locations for pending tests.
Understand tube types, test requests, and medical terminology.
Report malfunctioning systems and equipment through appropriate channels.
Report on time and ready to perform assigned duties as scheduled.
Wear a company lab coat, gloves, and face shield during specimen handling.
Establish positive patient identification on samples or in reporting systems before taking further action.
Maintain full knowledge of the physician's order or requisition.
Understand and comply with OSHA, HIPAA, and other regulatory requirements.
Follow proper incident procedures in the event of an accident, specimen breakage, or spill.
Attend department trainings and meetings and participate in two-way communication to assist with process improvement.
Comply with laboratory policies and procedures, including safety and quality practices.