Microbiology Lab Assistant

St. Elizabeth Healthcare • Hebron, KY

4d

About The Position

Under the direction of the General or Section Laboratory Supervisor, the Microbiology Lab Assistant performs specimen processing functions, waived and moderate-complexity testing as defined by CLIA Section 493.1421 and approved by the Medical Director, and other non-technical duties as assigned. The role supports laboratory operations and requires respectful, dignified, kind, and empathetic interactions with patients, families, visitors, and coworkers.

Duties include preparing and sending specimens, receiving and processing blood, urine, and other specimens, and supporting technologists and laboratory sections. The associate follows universal precautions and laboratory safety procedures, helps maintain equipment, completes required training and competencies, and complies with applicable safety, health, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• High school graduate or GED.
• Meet CLIA Section 493.1421 requirements.
• Computer literacy/fluency and computer skills.
• Human relations and communication skills.
• Up to three months to become proficient.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, package, label, and send specimens according to procedures; generate worksheets for reference laboratory specimens and prepare those specimens for shipment.
• Receive specimens from the pneumatic tube system and centrifuge blood and urine specimens as needed.
• Aliquot specimens and prepare them for analysis.
• Perform waived and moderate-complexity testing as defined by CLIA, reporting results according to established protocols and evaluating specimen acceptability.
• Support technologists by loading and maintaining instruments and assisting with reconstituting reagents and thawing and pooling blood products.
• Receive and log specimens from inpatient nursing units, outpatients, operating rooms, and the Emergency Department.
• Transport specimens from Central Processing to laboratory sections, file specimens after testing, and locate specimens requiring add-on testing.
• Check unfinished work reports and daily checklists as needed, and support Central Processing staff with specimen receipt and telephone answering.
• Follow universal precautions and laboratory safety policies, decontaminate the work area daily, and minimize exposure to infectious diseases when handling blood or body fluids.
• Assist with maintenance and repair of clinical laboratory equipment within the scope of training.
• Perform clerical support duties necessary for efficient laboratory operations.
• Complete mandatory competencies and training modules, review departmental policies and procedures, and adhere to safety policies and procedures.
• Comply with applicable safety and health rules and local, state, and federal regulations.
• Provide services using knowledge and skills based on applicable principles of growth and development over the life span.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support efficient and cost-effective laboratory operations within the scope of practice.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and comprehensive health coverage within the first 30 days.
• Generous paid time off and flexible work schedules.
• Retirement savings with employer match.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
• Wellness, mental health, and recognition programs.
• Career advancement through mentorship and internal mobility.

What This Job Offers

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