Lab Assistant - Laboratory Medicine

About the role

The Laboratory Assistant provides quality laboratory diagnostic service and stewardship by performing support functions to ensure optimal support of the laboratory department.

Responsibilities

• Support the Laboratory Manager, Supervisor, Technologists, Scientists, Sr. Scientists, and Phlebotomists in all phases of laboratory testing, including but not limited to:
  • Processing lab specimens manually or using automated lab analyzers
  • Labeling and sample management in the electronic medical record
  • Quality control and lab supply/inventory management
  • Equipment maintenance and lab customer service support
• Perform CLIA waived testing as required
• May be assigned to support laboratory testing in sections such as Blood Bank, Core Laboratory, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular, Lab Supply Management, Lab Support Services, Pathology, Point of Care, or others as determined by leadership
• Comply with all Health First and HF Laboratory policies, procedures, and accreditation requirements
• Meet performance improvement metrics and demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement
• Complete Annual Competency Assessments successfully
• Monitor data management systems and inventory daily, reporting variances to the Supervisor
• Assist in cleaning laboratory equipment, waste management, and storage/retrieval of specimens and lab records
• Cross-train in other laboratory departments as directed by supervisor
• Demonstrate effective communication and proper escalation with coworkers and management

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Must pass a color blindness test
• Proficient in required computer applications
• Ability to work autonomously with minimal supervision
• Strong critical thinking, prioritization, organization, and communication skills (written and verbal in English)

Preferred Qualifications

• Current enrollment or completion of a post-secondary technical or clinical program in biological sciences or related field
• Clinical Lab Assistant Certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (CLA(ASCP))
• 1 year of experience in a clinical healthcare laboratory or any clinical healthcare setting
• Knowledge of pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic phases of diagnostic lab testing

Physical Requirements

• Able to work shifts longer than 8 hours during periods of high demand
• Visual acuity and manual dexterity to perform clinical/technical tasks
• Must be able to lift 10-20 lbs. unassisted
• Visual acuity and hand-eye coordination for task performance
• May require travel to various facilities within and beyond the county perimeter; may require use of a personal vehicle

Mental Demands

• Ability to function in a highly stressful environment
• Ability to handle multiple problems simultaneously and make independent decisions
• Able to interpret regulatory guidelines and make independent decisions

Benefits

At Health First, diversity and inclusion are essential for continued growth and evolution. The organization fosters a culture that recognizes, encourages, and respects diverse voices, perspectives, and backgrounds to create a stronger, more collaborative work environment.

Schedule

Per Diem, night shifts

Pay

Paygrade: PG-26