A Microbiology Laboratory Assistant works in laboratories or hospitals, examining microscopic organisms like bacteria for scientific and medical purposes. Practices safety and sterilization procedures to minimize the risk of any hazardous accidents when working with infectious specimens.
The HFMG Laboratory Assistant position is responsible for providing quality laboratory diagnostic service and stewardship by performing support functions to ensure optimal support of the laboratory department.
PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITES
Support the Laboratory Manager, Supervisor, Technologists, Scientists, Sr. Scientists and Phlebotomists in all phases of laboratory testing, particularly in, but not limited to: processing of lab specimens manually or using automated lab analyzers, labeling, sample management in electronic medical record, quality control, lab supply and inventory management, equipment maintenance, lab customer service support, and other tasks assigned by lab leadership team. May perform CLIA waived testing. Must meet the minimum qualification set forth by state & CLIA. May be assigned to support laboratory testing support to one of the following laboratory sections: Blood Bank, Core Laboratory, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular, Lab Supply Management, Lab Support Services, Pathology, Point of Care, or other sections as determined by laboratory leadership. Complies with all Health First, HF Laboratory policies and procedures, along with all pertinent federal and state accreditation agency requirements. Shows commitment to meet departmental goals & to continuously improve performance improvement metrics. Demonstrates the appropriate skill sets as determined by the Annual Competency Assessments. Availability to meet departmental staffing demands and demonstrates effective time management. Ability to perform basic computer skills pertinent to job performance. Monitors data management systems and inventory daily. Reports variances to the Supervisor. Assists in cleaning of laboratory equipment, emptying waste, discarding, retrieval & storage of specimens/lab records. Cross trains in other departments within the laboratory or as directed by supervisor. Complies with the Health First I-Care values and demonstrates effective communication with coworkers and management to include proper escalation when necessary. Work Experience
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent.
Work Experience:
None Licensure:
None Certification:
None Skills/Knowledge/Abilities:
Must pass color blindness test. Proficient in required computer applications. Work autonomously with minimal supervision.
Strong skills in:
critical thinking, prioritization and organization of tasks, communication skills (written and verbal in English).
PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
Current enrollment or completion of a post-secondary technical or clinical program in biological sciences or relevant fields.
Work Experience:
One (1) year in clinical healthcare laboratory or any clinical healthcare setting.
Certification:
Clinical Lab Assistant Certification from American Society for Clinical Pathology (CLA ASCP).
Skills/Knowledge/Abilities:
Laboratory Skills (Knowledge of pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic phase of diagnostic lab testing).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Majority of time involves sitting or standing; occasional walking, bending, and stooping. Long periods of computer time or at workstation. Light work that may include lifting or moving objects up to 20 pounds with or without assistance. May be exposed to inside environments with varied temperatures, air quality, lighting and/or low to moderate noise. Communicating with others to exchange information. Visual acuity and hand-eye coordination to perform tasks. Workspace may vary from open to confined. May require travel to various facilities within and beyond county perimeter; may require use of personal vehicle. Benefits
ABOUT HEALTH FIRST
At Health First, diversity and inclusion are essential for our continued growth and evolution. Working together, we strive to build and nurture a culture that recognizes, encourages, and respects the diverse voices of our associates. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds create a stronger and more collaborative work environment that delivers better results. As an organization, it fuels our innovation and connects us closer to our associates, customers, and the communities we serve.
