Lab Associate II

Responsibilities

• Prepares and organizes samples for testing, for example, sample racking, aliquoting and tube preparation.
• Handles, processes or prepares, and transports and stores specimens.
• Identifies sample problems and assists in resolving appropriately.
• Demonstrates problem-solving ability on service and production issues.
• Prepares testing equipment and assists with preventive maintenance.
• Notifies appropriate technical staff of equipment problems.
• Aids licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA) in pre-analytic and post-analytic testing activities, other than trainees.
• Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed volume measuring devices.
• Sends documentation to appropriate staff for approval to use.
• Maintains complete and accurate records of reagents or media using established procedures, formulas, stock solutions and fixed volume measuring devices.
• Maintains inventory of consumable items including reagents and supplies.
• Sorts and accessiones incoming specimens into appropriate LIS, then delivers to designated testing platform/department.
• Performs data entry or transcribes data from previously recorded results to computer for data reduction and prepares for licensed personnel's review.
• Tallies workload data and prepares reports as requested.
• Assists in the performance of quality control procedures.
• Prepares protocols/logs or other appropriate documents.
• Identifies specimen problems and demonstrates ability to appropriately resolve or elevate to licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA).
• Aids a licensed person (e.g.: CLS) with performance of validation verifications and other Research and Development (R&D) activities, as applicable.
• Trains other Lab Associates.
• Supports Training Programs, where applicable.
• Takes initiative in making suggestions to improve efficiency and productivity and provides consistent feedback.
• Demonstrates leadership through accountability and collaboration in daily activities.
• Answers phones, transfers, or takes accurate messages.
• Maintains the confidentiality of client information.
• Helps to ensure the laboratory areas are neat, clean, and organized.
• Complies with all health and safety policies, procedures, and practices.

Qualifications

• Required Work Experience: 1 year of histopathology, cytology or other laboratory experience. 1 year of experience handling Protected Health Information (PHI) and other patient information using a Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• PREFERRED Work Experience: 2 - 3 years of laboratory experience preferred.
• Physical And Mental Requirements: The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects. Objects in the weight range of 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects in the weight range of 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally and objects in the weight range of 26 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted and carried. Objects exceeding 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance. Performs repetitive tasks with dominant hand. Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods. Have good eye and hand coordination.
• Knowledge: A working knowledge of reagent stability and storage. An awareness of the factors that influence test results.
• Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Application (Word, Excel, Outlook). Strong typing skills desirable. Communication and interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with management, co-workers, and clients. Other automation skills helpful.
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree Biological Science or Chemistry (other life science degree coursework will be evaluated) (Preferred) High School Diploma or Equivalent High School Diploma with a minimum of 2-3 years of laboratory experience Required.