Histology Lab Assistant

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The Histology Lab Assistant must possess comprehensive knowledge of pathology laboratory procedures, including specimen processing, documentation, and result management. The Histology Lab Assistant must have the ability to work effectively under pressure and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency. They should be capable of providing leadership and direction to team members, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

Schedule: Office: This role would consist of a 40- hour work week, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 6:30 am to 3:00 pm.   Hours may change due to business needs

Location: 3901 Hoyt Ave, (Founder’s Lab in basement) Everett, WA 98201.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Specimen Handling: Receive, log, and accession tissue specimens accurately, ensuring proper labeling and documentation of patient information. Verify specimen integrity and resolve any discrepancies or issues with submitting departments or clinicians.
• Tissue Processing: Operate tissue processing equipment and instruments according to established protocols, ensuring optimal tissue preservation and sectioning quality. Changing of chemicals on the tissue processing equipment to maintain proper processing and functionality of the equipment.
• Lab Information System Management: Utilize the laboratory information system (LIS) to accurately record and track specimen processing activities, including specimen accessioning, processing steps, and results reporting. Enter data into the LIS promptly and ensure that all information is entered correctly to facilitate accurate specimen tracking and retrieval. Collaborate with LIS administrators to troubleshoot system issues, implement updates, and optimize workflow efficiency within the LIS platform.
• Reference Lab Coordination: Facilitate the coordination of specimens sent to reference laboratories for specialized testing or consultation. Prepare specimens for shipment according to transportation regulations and ensure proper documentation and labeling to meet reference lab requirements. Communicate effectively with reference lab personnel to track specimen status, obtain test results, and facilitate timely result reporting back to the primary laboratory.
• Inventory Management: Manage inventory of reagents, consumables, and supplies necessary for tissue processing and staining. Monitor stock levels, place orders for replenishment as needed, and ensure proper storage and handling of inventory items.
• Filing and Refiling: File slides and blocks accurately according to designated storage protocols. Ensure that all slides and blocks are labeled correctly with patient information and specimen identifiers. Provide refiles as necessary to maintain organization and accessibility of archived specimens.
• Training and Guidance: Provide training and guidance to new laboratory staff or students, imparting knowledge on laboratory techniques, procedures, and equipment. Assist in the orientation and onboarding of new team members, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures and safety protocols.
• Customer Service: Demonstrate excellent customer service skills on the phone and in interactions with team members. Address inquiries and requests from clinicians, pathologists, and other laboratory stakeholders promptly and professionally, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and effective communication.
• Compliance and Safety: Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols and guidelines to minimize the risk of exposure to hazardous materials and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including OSHA, CLIA, and CAP standards. Participate in laboratory safety training programs and maintain a safe working environment for yourself and others.
• All staff members are to promote a positive and productive work environment by acting maturely and responsibly, satisfactorily performing job responsibilities, and conducting themselves professionally, courteously, and respectfully toward fellow employees, physicians, and patients.
• Must relate to other people beyond giving and receiving instructions: (a) get along with co-workers or peers without exhibiting behavioral extreme; (b) perform work activities requiring negotiating, instructing, supervising, persuading, or speaking with others; and (c) respond openly and appropriately to feedback regarding performance from a supervisor.
• Performs all duties in a manner that promotes and supports the Core Values.
• Integrates Lean principles, practices, and tools to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction.
• Must follow written and oral instructions and complete routine tasks independently.
• Complete all compliance training, including but not limited to HIPAA/Privacy/Confidentiality/Non-Discrimination/Harassment/Integrity Statement and signed Agreements.
• Ensures confidentiality of patient information by following HIPAA guidelines and organization policies
• Attends training to meet job position requirements and as needed or mandated by organization policies, Div. of Occupational Safety & Health (DOSH), OSHA, L&I, and other state/federal regulations.
• Have regular and predictable attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned

What are the reasons to consider working for UnitedHealth Group?  Put it all together – competitive base pay, a full and comprehensive benefit program, performance rewards, and a management team who demonstrates their commitment to your success. Some of our offerings include:

• Paid Time Off which you start to accrue with your first pay period plus 8 Paid Holidays
• Medical Plan options along with participation in a Health Spending Account or a Health Saving account
• Dental, Vision, Life& AD&D Insurance along with Short-term disability and Long-Term Disability coverage
• 401(k) Savings Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Education Reimbursement
• Employee Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Bonus Program
• Voluntary Benefits (pet insurance, legal insurance, LTC Insurance, etc.)

You’ll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED
• 1+ years of computer proficiency experience
• 1+ years of experience in a Histology laboratory including specimen processing 
• 1+ years of demonstrated ability to engage in professional phone communication with both patients and healthcare providers
• Ability to work a 40-hour work week listed in the job posting

Preferred Qualifications:

• Current BLS certification or ability to obtain within the first 30 days of employment
• Knowledge and understanding of laboratory equipment operation, such as centrifuges and copiers
• Knowledge of laboratory information systems (LIS) for data entry and specimen tracking purposes
• An understanding of regulatory requirements, including OSHA, CLIA, and CAP standards, pertaining to laboratory safety and compliance 
• Exhibit a range of technical skills, including the proven ability to process biological samples efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Proven attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards, especially in tasks involving specimen processing procedures and support functions
• Demonstrated flexibility for covering team members on leave and adjusting working hours as needed 
• Proven ability to exhibit a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, ensuring current knowledge of advancements in the field

Soft Skills:

• Demonstrated solid organizational skills to ensure accurate processing, along with the demonstrated ability to multitask while maintaining a calm and effectual demeanor
• Demonstrated effective verbal and written communication skills for interactions with patients, laboratory team members, clinicians, and other clinical staff
• Proven ability to troubleshoot, problem-solve, and encourage teamwork through cooperative interactions 
• Demonstrated adaptability to new processes demonstrated through Continuous Process Improvement 
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment, contributing to the overall efficiency of the laboratory

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you’ll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $16.00 to $29.00 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone–of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income–deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes — an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

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