Laboratory Assistant

Position Overview:

Under the supervision of the Lab Manager, the Laboratory Assistant supports the clinic team by preparing and processing laboratory specimens, maintaining accurate records, and assisting in diagnostic testing. This role requires attention to detail, reliability, and strong customer service skills to ensure high-quality patient care.

What You Will Do:

• Perform all laboratory duties in accordance with Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH), Meaningful Use (MU), and evidence-based clinical guidelines.


• Conduct daily laboratory testing, including strep tests, urinalysis, and basic blood chemistry, while ensuring proper maintenance of instruments and reagents.


• Oversee calibration, preventive maintenance, and quality control procedures; take corrective action when tests fall outside acceptable parameters.


• Conduct qualitative and quantitative specimen analysis, validating results by reviewing quality control samples prior to reporting.


• Maintain accurate records of laboratory requisitions, patient results, proficiency testing, and instrument maintenance in the EHR system.


• Coordinate external laboratory workflows, including specimen send-outs, tracking, and communication with referral labs.


• Review, update, and maintain Laboratory Policies and Procedures to ensure safety compliance and adherence to organizational medical protocols.


• Provide guidance, work direction, and cross-training to staff, while auditing documentation for accuracy and compliance.


• Participate in nursing and laboratory management meetings, quality improvement initiatives, and ongoing professional development to maintain technical expertise.


• Deliver high-quality customer service while respecting patient confidentiality, rights, and needs in accordance with the ECFH Code of Ethics.


• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED.

Preferred Qualifications:

• One year of experience as a laboratory technician.


• Associate's degree in healthcare, medical laboratory technology, or a related field.


• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to balance, bend, lift, carry, and pull up to 20 lbs.


• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods, typically longer than four hours.


• Flexibility to work a varied schedule, including evenings, weekends, or as needed.


• Manual dexterity and ability to use hands and fingers for feeling, grasping, and operating office equipment.


• Adequate hearing ability for communication and monitoring office environments.


• Good vision for reading documents, operating office equipment, and observing surroundings.


• Capability to stoop, crouch, crawl, or kneel as necessary for office tasks.


• Ability to talk clearly and effectively for communication.


• Ability to walk and move around the office environment.


• This position involves possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious materials.

Exposures:

• Airborne Pathogens


• Blood borne Pathogens-Category I


• Chemicals


• Electrical current; machine vibration; moving parts.


• Muscular and muscular strain


• Noise


• Odors, fumes, toxicants, explosive materials, and chemicals


• Temperature


• Vision and hearing strain

Exposures:

• Airborne Pathogens


• Blood borne Pathogens-Category I


• Chemicals


• Electrical current; machine vibration; moving parts.


• Muscular and muscular strain


• Noise


• Odors, fumes, toxicants, explosive materials, and chemicals


• Temperature


• Vision and hearing strain

What We Offer:

• 401(k) Retirement Plan


• 7 Paid Holidays


• Paid Sick Time


• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance


• 100% Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance


• Voluntary Employee Supplemental Benefits


• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


• Education Reimbursement


• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Who We Are:

As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) and 501(c)(3) nonprofit, El Centro Family Health is dedicated to providing affordable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare to the people of Northern New Mexico. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in our community by delivering primary care and health education through a network of clinics and collaborative programs. At El Centro, we are committed to offering vital health services in a compassionate, supportive, and patient-centered environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

El Centro Family Health is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace for all.