Lab Aide, I

About the role

Join Helix's world-class, high-volume CAP/CLIA certified laboratory, transforming health organizations by weaving genomics into the fabric of healthcare. As a Lab Aide, you'll be at the forefront of our pre-analytical operations, working with a dynamic team that processes thousands of patient specimens daily. You'll gain hands-on clinical laboratory experience in a state-of-the-art facility, supporting accessioning activities, plating procedures, and the biohazardous waste program, while also getting exposure to at-home kit fulfillment services which builds and sends out the very kits that return to our lab.

Responsibilities

• Build and support pick, pack, and send-out of at-home kits as part of fulfillment operations (approximately 20% of role)
• Accurate scans to track kit status and maintain inventory levels
• Receive, unpack, and verify patient specimens against requisitions with high accuracy
• Perform specimen accessioning and data entry while maintaining sample integrity
• Identify and flag specimen issues such as missing information or incorrect sample types
• Execute plating procedures and operate automated equipment according to established protocols
• Support and maintain the biohazardous waste program in compliance with regulations
• Maintain a clean, organized laboratory workspace
• Cook off handoffs between accessioning and supporting teams to keep specimen statuses accurate across teams

Requirements

• Associate's degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology
• Course work must include completion of 60 semester hours from an accredited institution, with 24 semester hours of science courses (including 6 hours in chemistry, 6 hours in biology, and 12 additional hours in chemistry, biology, or medical lab technology)
• 0–1 year of experience in a clinical laboratory or healthcare setting (Lab Aide I); academic experience will be considered
• Proficient computer skills (Excel, Microsoft Word) with exceptional accuracy in data entry
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Understanding of patient confidentiality (HIPAA) requirements
• Developing knowledge of CAP and CLIA requirements
• Ability to follow established procedures and work under direct supervision
• Willingness to commit to a Tuesday through Saturday work schedule
• Comfortable using AI tools (or open to learning them) to support day-to-day tasks

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology
• Prior experience in a high-volume clinical laboratory setting
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
• Experience with biohazardous waste handling and disposal
• Knowledge of pre-analytical specimen processing best practices
• Demonstrated interest in process improvement and operational efficiency
• Experience working in regulated environments
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently on routine tasks

Skills

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Understanding of patient confidentiality (HIPAA) requirements
• Developing knowledge of CAP and CLIA requirements
• Ability to follow established procedures and work under direct supervision
• Willingness to commit to a Tuesday through Saturday work schedule
• Comfortable using AI tools (or open to learning them) to support day-to-day tasks

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Insurance with Date of Hire eligibility
• Above average employer paid premium coverage 12 weeks Helix Paid Parental Leave option
• Comprehensive Well-Being Benefits
• Flexible PTO
• Home office stipend

Pay

• Base Salary: $23 - $29 per year
• Discretionary Annual Bonus: 5% of your annual salary
• Equity: We offer generous equity at Helix. If you receive a Helix offer your recruiter will book dedicated time with you to educate you on our equity model.