Laboratory Technician Phlebotomist

About the role

The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the lab, aiding in research-related activities and clinical research. This role involves collecting blood, urine/stool, or tissue samples, processing and shipping biological samples, and maintaining laboratory documentation and supplies. The ideal candidate will be organized, detail-oriented, and an excellent communicator, capable of providing high-quality patient care while collaborating closely with the PCR team.

This role reports directly to the Laboratory Manager or the site Clinical Operations Manager.

Responsibilities

• Perform lab tests, collect subject specimens, and process samples according to the corresponding study lab manual.
• Responsible for daily phlebotomy (venipuncture, IV catheter, or capillary collections) and specimen processing, and biological sample shipping using universal precautions.
• Use proper tools such as an appropriate needle gauge and type of needle (straight needle, butterfly, or IV catheter) and judgment to obtain optimum specimens while minimizing discomfort and hazards for the patient.
• Collect, organize, store, and ship samples in accordance with quality control and all safety and other requirements to ensure the safety of personnel and integrity of the sample.
• Ship processed specimens to the central and/or local lab in a timely manner and according to study lab manuals.
• Track inventory of lab kits from the central lab and re-order as needed. Ensure there are no expired lab kits on the premises.
• Track inventory of lab supplies and shipping containers and re-order as needed.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary laboratory area, storage area, and lab restroom at all times. Clean and maintain lab equipment, including alerting the Lab Manager or Clinical Research Project Manager when recalibration of equipment is needed.
• Facilitate or advise the lab manager/project manager for biohazard pickups.
• Complete and upload lab requisitions into Clinical Research IO (CRIO) and subject folders daily, as well as file the physical copies.
• Distribute lab requisitions to the appropriate CRC or Research Assistant daily for filing.
• Receive and process deliveries for the lab (e.g., upload temperature logs into the share drive, ensure product quantity matches shipping manifest, etc.).
• Maintain equipment records, temperature logs, inventory trackers, PK logs, and daily work logs in a timely manner.
• Complete the required data entry daily and ensure inventory is tracked in a timely manner.
• Retrieve subject specimens from local vendor locations if applicable (i.e., liver biopsy tissue).
• Communicate pertinent medical history information to the appropriate coordinating staff.
• Exercise judgment within the allowable limits defined within clinical trials protocols, standard operating procedures under the direction of the study Investigator and supervisor.
• Interact with internal and external personnel including physicians, nurses, administration staff, industry sponsor representatives, central laboratory/imaging personnel, and clinical trial patients.
• Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Certified in phlebotomy preferred with at least 1 year of experience.
• Minimum of 12 months of laboratory experience in a healthcare setting.
• Must complete CITI and GCP training before interacting with participants and must recertify every 3 years.
• Must complete IATA Dangerous Goods Training and recertify every 2 years.
• Must complete basic life support (BLS) training (training will be provided by PCR).
• Proficient in all Microsoft Office applications and Clinical Research IO (CRIO) or equivalent CTMS.
• Valid driver's license with maintenance of a safe driving record, and an automobile that is insured in accordance with the state.
• Flexibility with work schedule—early shifts, late shifts, weekend shifts.

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated organizational skills and outstanding time management, including keen attention to detail, with the ability to track multiple projects at once.
• Intermediate-level knowledge of medical terminology.
• Possess impeccable integrity and personal and professional values that are consistent with PCR’s high standards and mission.
• Proficient in English and Spanish preferred.
• Ability to work independently and multitask in a fast-paced team environment.
• Strong people skills, including the ability to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and to oversee confidential matters and sensitive information with discretion and judgment.
• Ability to quickly learn and process information.
• Energetic self-starter, results-oriented, and the ability to work effectively in an entrepreneurial environment.
• Ability to interpret clinical research protocols and lab manuals.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, particularly when under pressure.
• Proactive in identifying, addressing, and solving issues in real time.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work is performed in an office/laboratory and/or a clinical environment.
• Exposure to biological fluids and/or bloodborne pathogens. Personal protective equipment is required, such as protective eyewear, garments, and gloves.
• Occasional travel may be required, domestic and/or international.
• Ability to work in an upright and/or stationary position for 6-10 hours per day.
• Frequent mobility required.
• Occasional squatting, kneeling, or bending.
• Light to moderate lifting and carrying (or otherwise moving) objects, including medical equipment, with a maximum lift of 20-50 lbs.

Benefits

• 401k
• Medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, short-term disability, FSA, and life insurance
• 3 weeks of paid time off
• 14 paid company holidays
• Scrub voucher (specific positions apply)