Laboratory Assistant 1 (Accessioning)

JOB SUMMARY

The Laboratory Assistant 1 (Accessioning) performs all data entry processes needed or required to facilitate the accurate reporting of all laboratory specimens. To help maintain specimen integrity and facilitate accurate billing. To provide a smooth workflow within the department that facilitates the accurate and timely accessioning of cases received and forwarding them to the appropriate department for testing and reporting. The successful incumbent must be self-motivated, and self-directed while successfully functioning within a high-performing team and operation. 

Avero Diagnostics operates on a 24/7/365 basis; individuals may be required to work various shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. It is required to have schedule flexibility with and without advanced notice.

 ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Maintains universal precautions during all aspects of processing.
• Unpack specimens received in the laboratory and correctly identify all necessary information on a test requisition. 
• Accession of specimens into the laboratory information system(s).
• Accurately utilizes accession logs.
• Ensures compliance with all local, federal, CLIA, and CAP regulations.
• Recognizes mistakes on test requisitions and acts appropriately whether they are from the client or inside the department. If it cannot be resolved, they will bring it to the attention of the department supervisor.
• Identifies correct documentation and procedures for missing or discrepant information and questionable specimen integrity.
• Properly and accurately prints labels with corresponding electronically assigned case identifiers to specimen vials and paperwork. 
• Demonstrates proper use of computer software used in the laboratory.
• Efficiently and accurately collates all paperwork received with specimens including insurance information and private patient information.
• Performs laboratory send-outs.
• Prepares specimen shipments while ensuring all shipping requirements and regulations are followed.
• As needed, transports all specimens for shipment to the designated carrier(s).

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/LICENSE 

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; college degree is a plus.
• Active and valid US State-Issued Driver’s License with acceptable motor vehicle record as defined and approved by the company’s vehicle insurance carrier. 

 EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 6 months of experience required:
  1. High demand, fast paced, exceptional customer/patient service environment.
  2. Proficiency with computers and strong, quick, and accurate data entry/typing skills.
• Laboratory or healthcare environment experience is a plus.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES 

• Familiarity with medical terminology preferred.
• Ability to recognize, read, and process data entry of numbers and text quickly and accurately.
• Exhibits patience and approachability, sets positive tone and example for team member behavior, work ethic, quality, abilities, skills, and overall performance.
• Maintains confidentiality at all levels and consistently acts with high integrity.
• Demonstrates patience, and approachability, and sets a positive tone for team behavior, work ethic, quality, and overall performance, focusing on team success over individual achievement.
• Consistently delivers high-quality work on time and takes responsibility for outcomes.
• Builds and sustains effective relationships with team members across all organizational levels.
• Exhibits professional communication abilities, including listening, writing, and speaking fluently and effectively in English.
• Works effectively both collaboratively within a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Thrives in fast-paced, high-growth environments, managing competing priorities and frequent interruptions with ease.
• Functions as a responsible, organized initiative-taker with excellent time management, follow-through, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
• Possesses strong analytical and research skills with an initiative-taking approach to identifying, assessing, and resolving complex challenges and processes.
• Demonstrates effective facilitation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Skilled in utilizing various software applications, including MS Windows, Outlook, Word, Excel, and healthcare databases/systems.
• Maintains regular, reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Maintains a professional appearance, communication style, and demeanor.

 WORKING CONDITIONS

• This position operates in a fast-paced office and lab environment, requiring adherence to daily workload demands, potential exposure to chemicals, and the use of personal protective equipment and universal precautions.
• The role involves regular use of standard office equipment, including computers, printers, phones, and mobile devices, in a work environment with noise levels ranging from moderate to loud.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• The position may require exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, 10 pounds frequently, and negligible force constantly to move objects.
• Regular activities include talking, hearing, sitting, standing, walking, using hands to manage or feel, grasping, reaching, and performing repetitive movements with wrists, hands, and fingers.
• Specific vision abilities include close visual acuity and the ability to adjust focus for tasks such as data analysis, reading reports, transcribing, viewing computer monitors, and legally operating a motor vehicle.
• Avero is an equal-opportunity employer and strives to provide a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws.

 The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are intended to provide a general overview of the primary functions, required knowledge and skills, and scope of responsibility for the role. This is not an exhaustive list of all job requirements, and employees may be asked to perform additional duties, work various shifts, or assist in other areas to cover absences, manage peak workloads, or balance staffing needs. These job details are not intended to create an employment contract and are subject to change at the employer's discretion.