Clinical Lab Assistant I - Microbiology - Sonora Quest

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POSITION SUMMARY
This position assists technical lab staff and may be responsible for the collection, receipt, and processing of biological specimens into the department, preparation of samples for analytical testing, and may perform waived and/or limited moderate complexity testing if CLIA minimum requirements are met or as approved by the CLIA Medical Director. This position reports to department leadership and takes direction from higher-level technical personnel.

Performs all functions according to established policies, procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, as well as applicable professional standards.

CORE FUNCTIONS
1. May process and prepare patient samples as required to include the following: 1) specimen collection, ensuring correct patient and specimen identification and specimen integrity 2) general laboratory specimen processing and 3) referral laboratory processing. May perform waived and moderate complexity testing under direct supervision while meeting performance standards and knowledge level determined for the approved testing. Demonstrates an understanding of the computer systems used in the department. Tracks and locates missing specimens while monitoring pending lists. Performs maintenance activities on laboratory equipment as directed. Demonstrates awareness and conforms with accrediting agency and regulatory requirements related to their area of responsibility.

2.  Focuses on quality by ensuring that all work performed is accurate, complete and within the time frames defined by the department. Meets department standards for productivity and quality. May perform quality control for testing as directed by technical staff, basic troubleshooting and communicate technical concerns to technical staff. Participates in detecting and documenting occurrences that deviate from defined procedures. Follows established methods and practices and demonstrates basic problem-solving skills with QC, testing and computer issues and maintains acceptable specimen rejection rates, if applicable.

3.  Participates in departmental financial responsibilities through the appropriate use of supplies and materials and assists with inventory management. Participates in department initiatives to reduce costs and improve service.

4.  Performs miscellaneous support duties as defined by the department, which may include phlebotomy and training. May contribute to the updates of training documents and procedures.

5.  Communicates courteously, professionally, effectively, and accurately with internal and external customers. Demonstrates skills for basic computer inquiry and problem solving, and use of communication equipment. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication skills. Promotes positive communications that enhance teamwork. Attendance and participation at staff meetings.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

DIRECTLY REPORTING

None

MATRIX OR INDIRECT REPORTING

None

TYPE OF SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None

SCOPE AND COMPLEXITY
Primarily departmental responsibility. Customers are internal to the site or within the organization. Some contact with outside couriers, vendors, clients, nursing, physicians, etc.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT FACTORS

Able to stand, walk, bend, swat, reach and stretch frequently. Use material handling equipment to push and/or pull up to 75 pounds and required to lift, push and/or pull up to 25 pounds. Requires manual dexterity. Must use standard precautions due to threat of exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical, electrical and biological hazards. Ability to distinguish colors and to take direction and assimilate instructions quickly. Requires use of computer, printers, copiers, telephone, fax and department specific equipment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Must exhibit personal maturity and responsibility.

• Excellent reading, writing and math abilities.

• Communicates effectively in oral and written formats sufficient to demonstrate comprehension.

• Ability to perform detailed work; work with frequent interruptions, multi-task, problem solve and memorization.

• Ability to take direction and assimilate instructions quickly.

• Detail oriented and exceptional organizational skills.

• Basic computer skills.

• Must exhibit skills in exceptional customer service, good performance review and passing on-site competency evaluation and /or assessment as defined by the department.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent and must be 18 years or older if performing phlebotomy.

• Progression through career ladder II-IV is subject to completion of career ladder requirements.

• Position may require DHS Fingerprinting Certification or the ability to obtain fingerprint certification. 

• Dependent on department/location, candidate must possess a valid state driver's license in the state of employment and be eligible for coverage under the company auto insurance policy.

• Phlebotomy/CLA certification as defined by state regulations.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous clinical laboratory experience.

• Successful completion of a laboratory assistant program.

• Basic knowledge of specimen requirements and handling.

• Knowledge of medical terminology.

• Additional related education and/or experience.

DATE APPROVED   05/26/2024

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