Laboratory Assistant

This position aids in providing efficient, effective, and economical quality laboratory services. Accurately receives all samples into the Laboratory’s Information System (LIS); centrifuge all specimens; separate and load specimens into instrument racks delivering racks to each department for testing; assists technical staff with loading specimens onto urinalysis and hematology analyzers, aliquots and packages specimens for transfer to reference lab(s); prepares micro set-ups; performs waived rapid tests; couriers specimens between on-campus practices and surgical areas to the laboratory; prepares gram stains, stocks media, performs inventory, assists others as needed.  Performs other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or its equivalent.

• Excellent communication skills to effectively and tactfully communicate with patients and their families and guests, co-workers, managers, providers and other hospital personnel on a one-to-one basis using appropriate grammar, vocabulary and word usage.
• Interpersonal skills necessary in order to carry out duties in a professional manner, as well as the ability to work well under stress.
• Developed computer skills and the ability to learn and proficiently perform computer applications related to department operations and job function.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Strong organizational skills in order to manage multiple issues simultaneously combined with ability to effectively prioritize.
• Ability to work independently with a high level of concentration and attention to detail.
• Ability to effectively perform job functions under periods of extreme stress.
• Ability to be discreet and protect the integrity of any confidential matter or information encountered during the performance of job duties.

• Typical hospital clinical environment with frequent standing and walking. 
• Work may be subject to interruptions. 
• Risk of occupational exposure to blood and other potentially infectious material, electrical and radiation hazards. 
• Works with protected health information. 
• Ability to work any shift, occasional extended hours, holidays and/or weekends based on the needs of the department.

• Lifting, pushing, pulling, walking, sitting, reaching, bending, lifting, kneeling or stooping to perform duties in a safe manner.
• Uses computer and other standard office equipment. 
• Uses patient care tools and equipment as they relate to area of clinical specialty.