Lab Assistant

The Lab Assistant is responsible for receiving all specimens in the Accessioning Department and preparing specimens for testing. This includes entering incoming specimens into the laboratory information system (LIS), pipetting specimens to the required test tubes, preparing specimens for testing, and restocking supplies in a high-throughput production laboratory environment where work is assessed based on speed and accuracy. This position requires a high level of attention to detail.

This position is scheduled Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM. 

• Receive incoming urine, oral fluid, plasma, and PCR specimens; open, count, and sort specimens
• Ensure specimen integrity by verifying that specimens are labeled appropriately and that identifying information on the specimen matches identifying information on accompanying documentation and/or electronic orders
• Enter patient data, specimen information, medication lists, ordered tests, and point-of-care results into the LIS – manual data entry may be required for some specimens
• Responsible for patient registration, including completion of billing-related tasks. 
• Correctly identify specimens that do not meet criteria for testing and specimens that need to be placed on hold for missing information
• Print barcode labels and attach appropriately to specimen containers, test tubes, and to any documentation
• Pipet (aliquot) accessioned urine specimens into appropriate test tubes to prepare for testing and storage
• Meet established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for speed and accuracy
• Transport accessioned specimens to other departments in a timely manner to prepare for testing
• Stock and refill samples, reagents, and supplies for lab operations throughout the day
• Scan documentation into the LIS 
• Document specimens that do not meet criteria for testing and notify other departments
• Assist with preparing specimens for rerun testing
• Dispose of urine and oral fluid specimens that have reached their retention date
• Communicate effectively with other departments about issues regarding specimen processing
• Clean storage bins and carts as needed
• Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or GED required
• Minimum of 1 year of data entry experience required
• Preference for candidates with familiarity with drug names and HIPAA-protected information
• Preference for candidates with experience working with bodily fluids, such as urine, plasma, oral fluid, and nasal swabs
• KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
• Skill with completing assignments accurately, and with attention to detail
• Skill in data entry with minimal errors
• Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
• Ability to function in a team environment and promote collaboration
• Must be able to work under limited supervision where the work assignments are subject to established procedures, techniques, and well-defined policies

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work will be performed in a laboratory environment and exposes the incumbent to normal laboratory hazards and chemicals, including biohazard materials
• Work in varying degrees of temperature (heated or air conditioned)
• Accessioning of specimens requires sitting/standing for up to 4 hours continuously
• Position requires sitting, walking, standing, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.