Laboratory Assistant - Full Time

About the role

Jupiter Medical Center is a leading health care provider in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast area, known for its high standards in safety, quality, and patient satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Performs computer data entry and workflow monitoring of all pending phlebotomy draws.
• Maintains pending log lists and organizes workflow to improve efficiency.
• Answers phones, faxes, reports, maintains phlebotomy inventory, and keeps a clean environment.
• Supports the laboratory technical staff by performing tasks such as specimen procurement, processing, testing, sending out specimens, and maintaining quality assurance records.
• Understands quality control and expected results for point-of-care testing (POCT) tests.
• Expedites all specimens based on priority levels (e.g., STAT, Timed, Routine).
• Communicates effectively with clinical staff, resolves specimen issues, and identifies/recalls specimen collection opportunities.
• May perform phlebotomy duties as needed.

Qualifications

• High school graduate or equivalent.
• Recognized national certification/certificates, such as ASPT, ASCP, preferred.
• Strong computer data entry skills and ability to learn multiple IS data entry systems and computer systems.
• Precise hand-to-eye coordination and finger dexterity for procedures, specimen collection, and electronic/computerized equipment use.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to self-direct and exercise independent judgment in handling tasks and resolving issues.

Special Skills

• Precise hand-to-eye coordination and finger dexterity.
• Knowledge of specimen requirements for over 2000 tests, timing of draws, and anatomical details for correct collections.
• Ability to learn and understand quality control and expected results for POCT tests.
• Self-directed and able to work independently.

Team Member Competencies

• Establishes relationships by building effective networks and collaborating within the department and organization.
• Provides guidance and feedback to help others strengthen knowledge/skills, solve problems, and perform effectively within the team.
• Inspires and motivates others by fostering commitment and cohesiveness, ensuring cooperation, and completing tasks and enhancing workflow.
• Exercises self-leadership, self-awareness, and self-regulation; manages emotions appropriately; leads by demonstrating adaptability, empathy, and social skills.
• Champions change and innovation by supporting people in trying new things, generating novel ideas, and using these ideas to develop new or improved processes.

Physical Requirements

• Standing on feet for 65% of the shift while performing lab tests.
• Sitting up to 4 hours/day on a chair while doing paperwork.
• Walking up to 50 yards per day.
• Lifting: 1-10 lbs from floor to counter level, PRN to replace reagents.
• Carrying: 1-10 lbs, distance <50 yards, several times a day.
• Pushing: 1-5 lbs, distance <50 yards, several times a day.
• Squatting: several times a day to reach cabinets, equipment.
• Twisting: Upper body 45 degrees, frequency – 10 times/day.
• Rotating: Upper body 45 degrees, frequency – 10 times/day.
• Reaching: Arms distance 1-3 feet, several times a day.

OSHA Exposure Level

Category I - Exposure to infectious diseases, blood and body fluids.

Environmental Factors

• Environment is noisy and disruptive.
• Numerous interruptions occur throughout the day.

Threshold Requirements

• Annual Joint Commission mandatory education requirements, in-services, and health requirements including attendance at new employee orientation.
• TB/PPD Surveillance Program.
• Maintenance of required professional licensing and/or certification(s).