Laboratory Assistant

Eurofins•Lenexa, KS

About The Position

The Laboratory Assistant performs accessioning, specimen management, issue resolution, data entry, and specimen storage. The role involves receiving and examining samples, resolving discrepancies with clients, operating assigned front-end processing automation equipment, entering information into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), labeling and routing specimens, retrieving and storing samples, and preparing specimens for shipment. The assistant also supports laboratory cleaning, maintains quality control and assurance records, and follows laboratory policies, procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. The position works closely with other laboratory associates to complete daily activities efficiently. The role has three qualification levels. Level II includes Level I duties, along with managing projects and escalated issues and demonstrating a strong understanding of laboratory operations. Level III includes Level I and II duties, plus leadership through supervision, coaching, and mentoring; ensuring adherence to department policies and procedures; supporting workflow direction and staff scheduling; training staff; and assisting with workflow improvements and communication with management. This is a full-time position working Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Candidates living within commuting distance of Lenexa, Kansas, are encouraged to apply. The work environment may involve exposure to infectious disease, biohazardous and hazardous materials, and regulated medical waste.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 2 years of clinical laboratory experience.
Comfort handling raw specimens.
Ability to read, interpret, and comply with internal SOPs, operating and maintenance instructions, and company policies.
Intermediate proficiency with PC-based software programs, including database skills.
Authorization to work indefinitely in the United States without restriction or sponsorship.
Ability to use hands, arms, and shoulders repetitively to operate a keyboard and other office equipment, use a telephone, and access cabinets and items at various levels, including overhead.
Ability to communicate clearly and understandably in person, by telephone, and in group settings.
Ability to stand in the laboratory for extended periods, including 4 or more hours as necessary.
Ability to lift and move items weighing up to 15 pounds.
Ability to move frequently around laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
Ability to operate a personal computer continuously for extended periods, including 4 or more hours.
Mental acuity to collect and interpret data, evaluate and reason, define problems, establish facts, draw conclusions, and make judgments and decisions.
Level II: demonstrated leadership abilities and advanced problem-solving skills.
Level III: ability to manage and direct associates, manage daily workload, assist management with workflow direction, ensure applicable SOPs are followed, help schedule staff, train laboratory assistants, answer questions when the Supervisor is unavailable, collaborate with other departments and laboratory leadership, communicate concerns to the Supervisor, and help improve workflow and organization.

Nice To Haves

At least 1 year of data entry experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Receive incoming shipments and document them appropriately.
Examine samples for accuracy and requirements such as sample type and volume.
Contact clients to resolve sample or testing issues and discrepancies; complete correction requests as needed.
Operate front-end processing automation equipment as assigned by management.
Enter data into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
Label samples and deliver them to the proper areas.
Retrieve and re-file samples for testing.
Store specimens properly for short-term and long-term storage.
Prepare specimens for shipment and follow applicable shipping requirements.
Assist laboratory personnel with cleaning duties.
Maintain quality control and quality assurance records as required.
Follow quality and safety standards, applicable regulatory requirements, laboratory policies, and protocols.
Communicate and work with other laboratory associates to complete daily activities efficiently.
Manage projects and resolve escalated issues as appropriate at Level II.
At Level III, supervise, coach, and mentor others as required and ensure the department follows policies and procedures.
At Level III, help direct workflow, schedule staff, train new or existing assistants, answer questions when the Supervisor is unavailable, coordinate with other departments and leadership, communicate concerns to the Supervisor, and assist with workflow and organizational improvements.
Perform other duties as assigned by management.