Laboratory Assistant

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for assisting the Laboratory Technicians in the area for which they are assigned. This position requires an individual who can multitask efficiently. The Laboratory Assistant must be able to accession specimens; order requested testing, label, and process specimens in an accurate and timely fashion. The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for most clerical duties in the laboratory.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTION/COMPETENCIES

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Order required testing, label, and process specimens in an accurately and timely fashion.
• Exercises independent judgment in dealing with procedural and technical problems.
• Disposes of hazardous chemical waste per regulatory guidelines.
• Complies with all State, Federal, professional regulations as well as company and departmental rules, polices, and procedural manuals.
• Adherence to CAP (College of American Pathologists), CLIA (Clinica Laboratory Improvement Amendments), State Regulations, HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability), Safety and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) Regulations.
• Participates in educational activities.
• Maintains patient confidentiality.
• Act as team player: collaborate, communicate clearly, and cooperate with team members with focus on mission and goals.
• Enhances communications by consistently displaying excellent customer service skills in behavior and attitude.
• Performs other position related duties as assigned.
• Employees shall adhere to high standards of ethical conduct and will comply with and assist in complying with all applicable laws and regulations. This will include and not be limited to following the Solaris Health Code of Conduct and all Solaris Health and Affiliated Practice policies and procedures; maintaining the confidentiality of patients' protected health information in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); immediately reporting any suspected concerns and/or violations to a supervisor and/or the Compliance Department; and the timely completion the Annual Compliance Training.

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSURES OR REGISTRY REQUIREMENTS

• License and certification as required by state.

KNOWLEDGE | SKILLS | ABILITIES

• Knowledge of medical terminology to communicate with laboratory staff.
• Knowledge in healthcare systems operations such as EMR.
• Skill in using computer programs and applications including Microsoft Office.
• Ability to listen, read, understand, and follow oral and written instruction.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with team members, physicians, vendors, clients, and external agencies.
• Ability to accession specimens.
• Ability to work independently and manage deadlines.
• Customer-oriented with ability to remain calm in difficult situations.
• Delivers exceptional patient service throughout all interactions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Complies with HIPAA regulations for patient confidentiality.
• Complies with all health and safety policies of the organization.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Some college, business, or technical training preferred.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Lab assistant experience is preferred.

REQUIRED TRAVEL

• N/A

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Carrying Weight Frequency

1-25 lbs. Frequent from 34% to 66%

26-50 lbs. Occasionally from 2% to 33%

Pushing/Pulling Frequency

1-25 lbs. Seldom, up to 2%

100 lbs. Seldom, up to 2%

Lifting - Height, Weight Frequency

Floor to Chest, 1 -25 lbs. Occasional: from 2% to 33%

Floor to Chest, 26-50 lbs. Seldom: up to 2%

Floor to Waist, 1-25 lbs. Occasional: from 2% to 33%

Floor to Waist, 26-50 lbs. Seldom: up to 2%