Lab Associate II

About the role

This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with general support for the laboratory, following all applicable policies and procedures. The schedule is Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Memphis, TN.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and organizes samples for testing, including sample racking, aliquoting, and tube preparation.
• Handles labeling, processing, transportation, and storage of specimens; identifies sample problems and assists in resolving them.
• Demonstrates problem-solving ability on service and production issues.
• Prepares testing equipment and assists with preventive maintenance; notifies appropriate technical staff of equipment problems.
• Assists licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA) in pre-analytic and post-analytic testing activities.
• Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed volume measuring devices; submits documentation for approval.
• 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; orders, unpacks, logs, dates, stores, and rotates stock.
• Performs inventory of laboratory items, restocks benches, and maintains equipment inventory.
• Sorts and accessioning incoming specimens into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and delivers to designated testing platforms/departments.
• 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 and 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).
• Assists a licensed person with performance of validation verifications and other Research and Development (R&D) activities, as applicable.
• Trains other Lab Associates and supports Training Programs, where applicable.
• Takes initiative in making suggestions to improve efficiency and productivity; provides consistent feedback and is a resource for process improvement.
• Demonstrates leadership through accountability and collaboration in daily activities.
• Answers phones, transfers calls, or takes accurate messages while maintaining confidentiality of client information.
• Ensures laboratory areas are neat, clean, and organized.
• Complies with all health and safety policies, procedures, and practices; required to use personal protective equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• For Lab Associates in the Histopathology or Cytology department:
  • 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).
• Education:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Science or Chemistry preferred.
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent with a minimum of 2–3 years of laboratory experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2–3 years of laboratory experience preferred.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Lifting and carrying objects:
  • 1–10 pounds frequently.
  • 11–25 pounds occasionally.
  • 26–50 pounds seldom.
  • Objects exceeding 50 pounds require assistance.
• Performs repetitive tasks with dominant hand.
• Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods.
• Good eye and hand coordination.

Knowledge

• Working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
• Awareness of factors that influence test results.

Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Strong typing skills desirable.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to deal courteously and effectively with management, co-workers, and clients.
• Other automation skills helpful.

Pay

$18.36+ per hour. Salary offers are based on relevant skills, training, experience, education, certifications, market, and organizational factors. Successful candidates may be eligible for annual performance bonus compensation.

Benefits

• Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for full-time employees working 30+ hours.
• Best-in-class well-being programs.
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program.
• Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program.
• Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
• 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off.
• FinFit financial coaching and services.
• 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Annual incentive plans.
• Matching gifts program.
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
• Career advancement opportunities.