Lab Assistant

The Lab Assistant I is responsible for general duties associated with the preparation of samples for  testing and/or transport. Duties include receiving specimens, identification, labeling, distributing laboratory samples to appropriate areas, data entry, calculating test results using preset procedures, routine instrument checks, and other duties as assigned to assist the lab team. Work is performed under the general supervision of a professional superior who discusses complex problems arising and evaluates work for professional quality.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Assists employees with work in progress.

·       Must read and follow departmental SOPs

·       Temperature checks

·       Receiving and storage of supplies

·       Processing specimens for later testing in the lab.

·       Assist in assessing specimen acceptance

·       Demonstrates good laboratory practice and performs cleaning and decontamination procedures for the equipment used in the processing area.

·       Track samples to assure proper storage.

·       Assist the Supervisor and Assistant Supervisor in performing maintenance on equipment in the department.

·       Understands and follows all safety rules and regulations.

·     Responsible for attending all scheduled in-service training provided.

• Performs related work as required.

Qualifications and Educational Requirements

·       High school diploma or equivalent

·       Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

·       Ability to follow written procedures accurately

·       Basic computer skills

·       Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment

·       Professional, reliable, and able to work well within a team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in a laboratory, medical office, or healthcare setting


• Experience handling biological specimens


• Familiarity with laboratory safety and compliance practices


• Experience with sample tracking or laboratory documentation


• Familiarity with laboratory IT systems, Excel, and Word

.

Physical Conditions

The 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.

·       The employee is frequently required to sit. The employee must possess manual dexterity and visual acuity.

·       The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. 

·       Some light lifting up to 50 lbs. may be required.  On average, the employee will be lifting approximately 25 lbs.

·       Must wear appropriate personal protective equipment while working in the laboratory.

Environmental Conditions

Laboratory environment.  Occasional harsh chemicals with strong odors may be present.  Personal protective equipment and OSHA, CLIA and laboratory policies, procedures and standards must be observed at all times. Safety restrictions are enforced.