Laboratory Assistant

Work Schedule:

Supports various laboratory departments and clients by performing tasks, determined by specific site location, such as order entry, specimen collections, processing equipment and reagent preparation checks, specimen transport distribution, supply inventory and waived testing under general supervision and other non-technical support. Clarifies pre-analytical test requirements and provides assistance to customers as needed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES may include any or all of the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of, adheres to, and accurately completes work according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s).
• Orders, receives, and triages incoming specimens and evaluates specimen integrity.
• Processes specimens/slides according to the Laboratory Handbook and SOP’s; Ensures accurate delivery of specimens/slides to appropriate departments.
• Performs clerical functions and support to include filing and record maintenance (both hardcopy and through computer programs) including entry of patient demographics and insurance information.
• Contacts clients and patients to obtain missing information as needed.
• Provides on-call and mobile services as required; may travel to multiple locations as assigned.
• Maintains adequate supply inventories and notifies supervisor/manager of any issues in a timely manner.
• Assists in the training/orientation of new staff members and participates in the CSI and continuing education programs.
• Performs laboratory information systems functions for test receipt, requisition and labeling; may perform and record required checks of laboratory equipment and test systems and notifies supervisor/manager of any issues.
• Participates in Health Fair events and performs finger punctures.
• Cleans laboratory equipment, glassware and work surfaces as well as prepares laboratory reagents and other testing supplies with accuracy and with documentation of performed QC checks. Problems are reported to the appropriate supervisor/manager in a timely manner.
• Orders DEMOs in the lab computer system.

Toxicology/ACL’s

• Handles Forensic Toxicology specimens, data, and reports according to forensic testing guidelines. Handles legal inquiries, search warrants, and subpoenas.
• Collects drug screen specimens, performs breath alcohol testing, and waived testing.

Pathology/Histology/Cytology

• Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks.
• Performs Digital pathology slide scanning and instrument maintenance.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience:

High school diploma or general education degree (GED).

Language Ability:

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions in English. Ability to write simple correspondence in English. Ability to effectively present information to one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

Math Ability:

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

Computer Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of E-mail and Lab Information System (will train).

Certificates and Licenses:

Selected Laboratory Assistants required to travel for their job must have a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving history.

HNL Lab Medicine is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with, and where applicable, in addition to federal, state and local employment regulations, Lehigh Valley Health Network will provide employment opportunities to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or other such protected classes as may be defined by law. All personnel actions and programs will adhere to this policy. Personnel actions and programs include, but are not limited to recruitment, selection, hiring, transfers, promotions, terminations, compensation, benefits, educational programs and/or social activities.

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