Pre-Analytical Assistant - 3rd Shift

the Client•Clifton, NJ

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Pre-Analytical Assistant I is responsible for general support functions within the Technical Operations Department. This role involves learning job duties, understanding how various functions within Technical Operations and Specimen Processing work together and impact technical departments and result quality. The assistant will identify and resolve or escalate issues with specimen types, missing information, and other specimen-related problems. A key aspect of the role is demonstrating an understanding of compliance policies related to test ordering, which requires the ability to research test order information. The position requires meeting quality and production standards, completing documentation accurately and on time, and adhering to attendance guidelines. The role also involves learning additional functions to progress to the next level and performing other assigned duties.

Requirements

Minimal data entry skills
Good organizational skills
Understanding of specimen types related to test(s) ordered
Clinical department requirements with regard to specimen types and quantity needed for each test, specimen handling and delivery
Understanding of compliance regulations related to test ordering which may change on a daily basis
Flexibility and a willingness to adapt to change and pursuit of continuous improvement
Commitment to fulfilling internal and external customer requirements in the course of carrying out routine position responsibilities
Willingness to actively contribute to a team-based working environment
Ability and willingness to support the goals of the department with regard to staffing needs on weekends, holidays, on call and overtime
Tasks and responsibilities must be performed with confidence, accuracy and in a timely manner
Performance task proficiency includes but is not limited to the following manual functions: sorting, racking, pickup and delivery of specimens to the laboratory, specimen storage (this position might also be trained to run the sorters in archive mode), centrifugation, aliquoting
Handles multiple tasks simultaneously and works in a production environment
Communicates effectively with all levels of staff both verbally and written
Maintains composure while working under pressure
Reflects good judgment at all times when determining what action to take in resolving problems
Adheres to Core Values, safety, compliance and work process policies and procedures
Works in a biohazard environment, in compliance with all applicable safety requirements
Keeps work area neat and clean; complies with 5S workplace standards
Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive working environment
Demonstrates work assignment flexibility and ability to adapt to change
Must have some flexibility with regard to work schedule
High School Diploma or GED required
Previous experience in a production environment preferred
Able to sit, stand or walk for long periods; able to lift up to 50 lbs.; maneuver large carts and/or racks with specimens
Overtime expectations apply

Nice To Haves

Medical background preferred, which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory
Prefer familiarity with mainframe computers

Responsibilities

Demonstrates an ability to learn the job duties assigned to the Pre-Analytical Assistant I, and develops an understanding of how all the functions in Tech Ops and Specimen Processing work together and how they impact Technical departments and result quality.
Identifies problems with specimen types, missing information etc., with regard to sorting, racking, centrifuging, delivery, and storage of specimens; is able to resolve or forward information in support of timely problem resolution.
Demonstrates an understanding of compliance policies related to test ordering, which requires developing ability to research test order information on translation tables, computer system, and the directory of services.
Meets quality and production standards within 6 months of completing training.
Completes all required written documentation such that it is understandable to others, legible and within the assigned time frame.
Reports to work on time, and follows attendance guidelines; supports the department's performance in the event of coworker absences.
Learns additional functions within Tech Ops and Specimen Processing to allow timely progression to the next level.
Performs other duties as assigned.