Lab Assistant

Job Summary

The Lab Assistant performs supportive laboratory duties, including specimen processing, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and quality control assistance. This role ensures the laboratory operates efficiently by assisting with diagnostic procedures, maintaining safety protocols, and supporting laboratory staff in routine testing and analysis. The Lab Assistant is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked work environment while adhering to regulatory and safety standards.

Essential Functions

• Assists laboratory staff in performing routine tests used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, following proper laboratory protocols.
• Prepares and processes specimens, ensuring proper labeling, storage, and transport according to laboratory procedures.
• Maintains laboratory equipment, ensuring it is in good working order, reporting malfunctions, and assisting with routine troubleshooting.
• Ensures compliance with safety and infection control standards, including proper handling of biohazardous materials and chemical reagents.
• Logs lab procedures and specimen information into the laboratory information system (LIS), ensuring accuracy and compliance with documentation protocols.
• Performs quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) tasks, assisting in documentation and regulatory compliance efforts.
• Stocks laboratory supplies and maintains inventory, ensuring necessary materials are available for daily operations.
• Cleans and disinfects work surfaces, equipment, and laboratory spaces, ensuring compliance with safety and infection control guidelines.
• Assists with data collection and performance improvement projects, actively participating in process improvement initiatives.
• Collaborates with healthcare providers, laboratory staff, and other departments to ensure efficient specimen processing and workflow.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Completion of a laboratory assistant training program or coursework in medical laboratory science preferred
• 0-2 years of experience in a laboratory, healthcare, or clinical setting required
• Experience with specimen processing, laboratory equipment, and quality control procedures preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and medical terminology.
• Ability to operate basic laboratory equipment and perform routine maintenance tasks.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, ensuring timely completion of laboratory support tasks.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with laboratory staff, healthcare providers, and patients.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow safety protocols, HIPAA regulations, and laboratory compliance standards.
• Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) and electronic medical records (EMR).

Licenses and Certifications

• BCLS - Basic Life Support obtained within 30 days of employment required