LAB TECHNICIAN - MICROBIOLOGY

Location: Lansing, MI

About the role

Assist Clinical Laboratory Scientists with providing accurate and timely lab results to physicians and patients. Prepare and process samples for testing. Assist in media, reagent, and quality control preparation and testing as directed.

Responsibilities

• Perform “waived,” non-patient testing, and quality control testing, as directed
• Assist with media/reagent preparation
• Assist with study documentation, testing, quality control, and record keeping
• Properly prepare specimens for testing by centrifuging, aliquoting, and labeling, adhering to published procedures and guidelines
• Receive and sort specimens, including blood, bodily fluid, and tissue
• Evaluate specimens for correct identification and suitability for testing
• Use complex scientific instruments to process specimens, adhering to published procedures and guidelines
• Identify and correct problems and/or errors with submitted specimens, orders, and processing on scientific instruments
• Follow established best practices to ensure that patients, orders, and specimens are always identified and labeled correctly
• Prioritize work based on patient type and sample priority
• Prepare specimens for transport and storage, deliver appropriate specimens to designated laboratory section for testing
• Use a computer to verify sample collection information, retrieve patient test data, and enter data
• Track specimens and work pending lists to identify incomplete tests and problems
• Resolve problems by taking appropriate actions as dictated by the circumstances
• Communicate effectively, and in accordance with the ICARE values, in-person, via the telephone, and via email
• Provide instruction in laboratory technique, instrumentation, and application of laboratory test procedures to new caregivers, students, fellows, residents, and clients
• Assist in training new caregivers
• Maintain inventory, replenish stock and supplies
• Perform technical, clerical, and service duties as assigned, including (but not limited to: equipment cleaning and maintenance, emptying trash, washing dishes, taking and recording temperatures, filing and retrieving specimens, handling biohazard and chemical waste)
• Follow instructions given by Clinical Laboratory Scientists, Pathologists, and Leaders

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Recent completion of a course in Medical Terminology to be completed within 60 days following employment OR completed at least one year (two semesters) of college science courses
• One year of experience in a clinical laboratory including culture set up experience or infectious disease specimen processing is preferred

Skills

• Ability to read, follow directions, and perform procedures associated with specimen collection, handling, and processing
• Ability to recognize problems and take corrective actions
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally both in person and via the telephone
• Ability to work well under pressure and to handle crisis situations
• Ability to function as part of a team dedicated to patient care
• Ability to use a keyboard as required to perform the essential duties of the job
• Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office products, SoftLab, Lifepoint, Epic, and WindoPath

Schedule

Shift: Evenings

Employment Details

• Status: Part-time
• Non-Benefit Eligible
• Facility: Sparrow Hospital
• Experience Level: Under 4 Years