Microbiology Lab Assistant
About The Position
The Microbiology Lab Assistant works under the direction of the General or Section Laboratory Supervisor. The role 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 assistant is expected to treat patients, families, visitors, and employees with respect, dignity, kindness, and empathy, regardless of cultural background. The position supports laboratory operations by preparing and processing specimens, assisting technologists, completing clerical and equipment-support work, and following laboratory safety, infection-control, and regulatory procedures. The associate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services based on applicable principles of growth and development over the life span.
Requirements
- High school graduate or GED.
- Meet CLIA Section 493.1421 requirements.
- Computer literacy or fluency and computer skills.
- Human relations and communication skills.
- Up to three months to become proficient.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, package, label, and send out specimens according to procedures.
- Generate worksheets for reference laboratory specimens and prepare specimens for shipment to reference laboratories.
- 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 moderately complex testing as defined by CLIA and report results according to established protocols, including 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 the Central Processing Area to each laboratory section.
- File specimens after testing is complete and locate specimens requiring add-on testing.
- Check the unfinished work report and daily checklist as needed.
- Support Central Processing staff as needed, including receiving specimens and answering telephones.
- Follow universal precautions and laboratory safety policies to minimize exposure to infectious diseases when handling blood or body fluids.
- Decontaminate the work area daily.
- Assist with maintenance and repair of clinical laboratory equipment within the scope of training.
- Perform clerical support duties needed to ensure efficient operation of the laboratory section or general laboratory.
- Complete mandatory competencies and training modules, review departmental policies and procedures, and adhere to safety policies and procedures.
- Follow applicable safety and health rules, guidelines, and procedures in the SEMC Safety and Infection Control Manual, and comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Perform other assigned duties within the scope of practice to facilitate efficient and cost-effective laboratory operations.
Benefits
- Competitive pay.
- Comprehensive health coverage within the first 30 days.
- Generous paid time off.
- Flexible work schedules.
- Retirement savings with employer match.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Wellness, mental health, and recognition programs.
- Career advancement through mentorship and internal mobility.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
