Laboratory Assistant I

Position Summary

The Laboratory Assistant I is responsible for clerical processing and performance of select routine laboratory tests used in diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for serving as patient advocate and provider clinical and technical support.
• Responsible for processing patient specimens appropriately to ensure accurate test results.
• Ensure out-sourced labs receive correct patient billing data.
• Performs selected patient tests with attention to precision, accuracy and validity.
• Ensure outgoing results are accurate and reach providers in a timely manner.
• Performs selected quality control checks as outlined in policies and procedures.
• Performs selected maintenance and calibrations as required by manufacturer and CLIA requirements.
• Responsible for select charge entry for lab testing as outlined by the Manager or Laboratory Services Manager.
• Maintains all required documentation to fulfill COLA/CLIA/OSHA and TPMG requirements.
• Communicates with clients (physician office staff and providers) to ensure appropriate specimen collection, handling, transport, and result return.
• Participates in and provides evidence of laboratory related continuing education.
• Successfully participates in proficiency and competency assessments.
• Functions in a multi-disciplinary environment, which requires the application of excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Maintains confidentiality of written or verbal medical information.
• All other duties as requested by the Manager.

Compensation starts at $16.00 per hour, with the final hourly rate determined by the candidate's relevant experience and qualifications.

LA Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of laboratory collection and testing techniques for routine laboratory tests.
• Knowledge of laboratory ordering and specimen processing to ensure accurate test results.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment and testing to operate, maintain and sterilize.
• Knowledge of appropriate medical terminology to communicate with laboratory and medical staff.
• Knowledge of OSHA and safety processes.
• Skill in reviewing requisitions for completeness and appropriate routing.
• Skill in reviewing specimens for appropriate labeling.
• Skill in routing specimens to reference laboratories when appropriate.
• Skill in operating a variety of laboratory instrumentation.
• Skill in preparing accurate reports concerning the results of laboratory tests.
• Skill in communicating clearly with diverse publics.
• Ability to work scheduled hours as defined in the job offer.
• Ability to follow quality control procedures and guidelines to include documentation and evaluation of results.
• Ability to perform waived testing according to established procedures and processes.
• Ability and willingness to maintain, troubleshoot and operate office and laboratory equipment as outlined in policies and procedures to include arranging for repair as necessary.
• Ability to document reagent and other checks according to policies and procedures.
• Ability to determine correct routing of specimens for tests ordered and insurance requirements.
• Ability to manage supply inventory appropriately and communicate shortages as required.
• Ability to establish/maintain effective working relationships with patients, medical staff and the public.
• Ability to read and understand oral and written instructions and follow written protocols.
• Ability to work independently.

Education / Training / Requirements

• High school diploma and or equivalent.
• One year experience in a medical laboratory environment preferred (or)
• Certificate of completion from an accredited laboratory training program (or)
• Transferable skills (e.g., 1 year or more in an armed forces medical laboratory setting) (and)
• Required to demonstrate competencies of the position within 2 weeks of hire

Physical Demands

• Ability to distinguish between all colors.
• Ability to stand and walk for limited periods of time.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time.
• Ability to climb or balance for limited periods of time.
• Ability to occasionally reach, bend, stoop and lift up to 30 lbs. *
• Ability to grasp and hold up to 25 lbs.*
• Ability to hear normal voice level communications in person or through the telephone.
• Ability to speak clearly and understandably.
• Ability to smell.

Success Factors

• Alignment with Company Mission and Core Values
• Excellent Time Management/Organized
• Open Communication/Positive
• Goal Driven
• Excellent Customer Service
• Juggles Multiple Priorities
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail

All statements are essential functions of the position unless identified as non-essential by an asterisk (*).