Job Summary
The Laboratory Assistant plays a key role in supporting laboratory operations by handling specimen processing, equipment maintenance, and administrative tasks. This position requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Sort and receive specimens in the department
- Perform routine instrument maintenance on designated equipment
- Process specimens for various departments, including microbiology and molecular microbiology
- Manage specimen storage and retrieval
- Prepare reagents and media as required
- Prepare specimens at workstations for testing (including building worklists, aliquoting specimens, checking for clots/fibrin, inoculation, and slide preparation)
- Perform QA/QC duties as assigned
- Resolve pending and receiving lists
- Locate missing samples through tracking and troubleshooting
- Decontaminate work areas and specimen/reagent racks for daily operations
- Utilize the laboratory computer system for documentation and tracking
- Dispose of biohazardous material and empty collection waste containers as needed
- Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate
- Assist supervisors and technologists with daily operational tasks
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to work independently and manage self-directed tasks
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and biohazard handling
- Basic computer skills for laboratory information systems
- Must have at least 2 years of recent experience in the specialty within the past 2 years.
Preferred Qualifications (if any)
- Prior experience in a clinical or research laboratory setting
- Knowledge of microbiology or molecular microbiology procedures
Certifications (if any)
- None required; laboratory-related certifications are a plus