Laboratory Assistant

Lab Assistant

This 0.0 FTE/Per-Diem/Relief position is scheduled to work an 8-HR variable shift as needed and is UFCW represented.

Compensation: Non-Exempt, $21.93/HR — $35.75/HR. Placement within this range is based on years of applicable experience.

Mason Health also offers these benefits for per-diem employees:

• Mental Health & Wellness Resources – Access to Talkspace and the Calm App.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Sick Leave

Job Summary

The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for accurate and efficient specimen procurement, specimen processing, and specimen distribution, including collecting, preparing specimens for testing, and distribution of blood and other body fluid samples. Laboratory Assistants provide patient and client services and perform other clerical duties.

Job Specific Duties & Responsibilities

1. Assess patients prior to obtaining a blood sample (diet, medications). Follows the laboratory's procedures for collecting samples for testing. Identify patients/clients properly and label specimens correctly.
2. Collect timed tests (fasting, glucose tolerance, and therapeutic drugs) according to established protocols.
3. Obtain blood specimens by skin puncture or venipuncture using appropriate techniques. Maintain the integrity of the specimen in relation to the tests to be performed. Collect urine drug screens according to chain of custody protocols. Administer Breath Alcohol Test. Obtain Legal Blood Alcohol samples. Perform therapeutic phlebotomies.
4. Maintain the integrity of the specimen in relation to the tests to be performed. Use correct preservatives for specimen collection. Provide post-collection care to the patient. Assess patient problems related to a venipuncture and be able to provide or seek appropriate help. Instruct patients and other health care professionals in proper collection, transport, and handling of specimens.
5. Centrifuge the specimens and prepare aliquots or components of specimens according to the specifications of the test to be performed. Correlate proper specimen collection to the accuracy of specimen analysis. Adhere to test specific special handling techniques. Consult with technologists and technicians in determining the integrity of a sample. Assess specimen issues and find the appropriate resolution.
6. Perform computer functions related to client services, order entry and specimen distribution processes. Prepare paperwork and samples to be sent to reference laboratories. Perform clerical work such as record keeping, filing, delivering and mailing reports. Perform client service functions such as answering phones, assisting other healthcare professionals and patients with lab-related questions, faxing reports, giving verbal reports.
7. Collects samples from patients in a variety of settings, including provider offices, outpatient draw stations, emergency triage, surgery, and inpatient rooms.
8. Assists with the orientation and training of new Laboratory Assistants as directed. Supports departmental success by demonstrating standard procedures, reinforcing safety and quality practices, and helping new staff become familiar with laboratory workflows.
9. Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

1. High school diploma or equivalent is required for employees starting in the role without a Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist (MA-P) license in place.
2. 1 year of Lab Assistant experience, preferred.

Required Licenses, Certifications and/or Registrations

1. Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist license. Individuals hired have 6 months from the date of hire to become licensed and must provide proof of completion of an accredited Phlebotomy program in the absence of the MA-P license.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Keyboarding Skills Required.
2. Strong organizational and analytical skills.
3. Ability to work with minimal supervision.
4. Professional and effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to identify and employ communication strategies appropriate to the audience.
5. Ability to manage multiple priorities and display flexibility in a fast-paced and changing work environment.
6. Maintains job knowledge relevant to position.

Mason Health practices equal employment opportunity towards all workforce members and applicants for employment. Mason Health does not engage in or tolerate any discrimination in the workplace prohibited by applicable local, state, or federal law. Specifically, no workforce member will be discriminated against on the basis of their race, color, sex/gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, religion/creed, age, disability, marital or veteran status, national origin, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state or federal law.

Location: Mason Health · LabSchedule: Variable