What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lab Tech Assistant - Microbiology position at Mercy Health BSMH?
Summary of Primary Function/General Purpose of Position
The Lab Tech Assistant prepares specimens for analysis by registering and accessioning orders via Hospital Information System and Laboratory Information Systems (clinical lab and/or anatomic pathology), verifying specimen acceptability. Performs established pre-analytical and analytical laboratory procedures, not requiring Medical Technologist, Histotechnologist, or Cytotechnologist interpretation, in accordance with established laboratory policy in an accurate, safe, and timely manner.
Essential Job Functions
• Performs waived and limited moderately complex testing as defined by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA).
• Performs and reports testing and quality control procedures according to established protocols; evaluates specimen acceptability and implements corrective action within scope of training.
• Provides support functions to technologists including the loading and maintaining of instruments, making up of reagents, thawing, pooling, importing, and issuing of blood products, and maintenance and function checks.
• Recognizes instrument and equipment malfunctions and keeps appropriate person(s) informed of problems, issues, and resolutions as needed.
• Operates, maintains, and repairs clinical laboratory equipment within the scope of training including routine preventative maintenance, calibrations, and safety checks.
• Competently registers, enters insurance information, accessions, triages and processes specimens in preparation for testing and transit. Follows established guidelines for centrifugation and aliquoting of samples.
• Uses computer programs to track specimen transport and minimizes lost specimens.
• Provides laboratory customer service to include request for add-ons, specimen collection information, phlebotomy requests, result inquiry, etc.
• Maintains inventory levels and stocks supplies
• When staffed in Microbiology department, culture setup of microbiology samples and gram stain preparation. Performs the MST (Micro Setup Time) as needed.
This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
Licensing/Certification
Education
High School Degree or GED (required)
Associates, Biology or Chemistry (preferred)
Work Experience
Laboratory experience (preferred)
Training
None
Skills
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Verbal and Written Communication
Monitoring
Science
Judgment and Decision Making
Operation Monitoring
Time Management
Customer Service
Problem solving
Medical Terminology
Office Machine Operation
Phlebotomy Collection Software
Working Conditions
Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur
May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids*
May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials*
May have periods of constant interruptions
Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions
Other: Intermittent exposure to fumes and odors
* Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.
Physical Requirements
Lifting/Carrying (0-50 lbs.) 1-33%
Lifting/Carrying (50-100 lbs.) 0%
Push/Pull (0-50 lbs.) 1-33%
Push/Pull (50-100 lbs.) 1-33%
Stoop/Kneel 1-33%
Crawling 0%
Climbing 0%
Balance 1-33%
Bending 1-33%
Sitting 67-100%
Walking 1-33%
Standing 1-33%
Additional Physical Requirements/Hazards
Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination)
Perform shift work
Hear alarms/telephone/audio recorder
Reach above shoulder
Repetitive arm/hand movements
Finger Dexterity
Color Vision
Acuity - far
Acuity - near
Depth perception
Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents
Exposure to moving mechanical parts
Exposure to dust/fumes
Exposure to potential electrical shock
Exposure to x ray/electromagnetic energy
Exposure to high pitched noises
Gaseous risk exposure
Patient Population
Neonates (0-4 weeks)
Infant (1-12 months)
Pediatrics (1-12 years)
Adolescents (13-17 years)
Adults (18-64 years)
Geriatrics (65 years and older)
Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental and vision plans
Prescription drug coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Life insurance w/AD&D
Employer contributions to retirement savings plan when eligible
Paid time off
Educational Assistance
And much more
*Benefits offerings vary according to employment status
All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com
