Medical Laboratory Assistant

PHSA; Richmond; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Medical Laboratory Assistant to support patient care through blood collection and specimen processing. This role involves working under general supervision to ensure accurate testing and data entry, contributing to the overall efficiency of laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to patient care, effective communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. Join a team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of the community, with opportunities for professional development and a supportive work culture.

Benefits

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Professional Development Opportunities

Flexible Work Options

Annual Statutory Holidays

WorkPerks Discount Program

Qualifications

• Completion of a recognized Lab Assistant training program.
• Ability to type 25 wpm and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Collect blood specimens and prepare them for analysis.
• Perform routine electrocardiogram testing as required.

Skills

Blood Collection

Specimen Processing

Data Entry

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Grade 12

Lab Assistant Training Program

Tools

Laboratory Information System

Electrocardiograph

Job description

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Pre and Post Analysis

Location: Richmond, BC

Within the context of a client and family centered care model and in accordance with established vision and values of the organization, this position works under general supervision to perform duties related to blood collection and specimen processing. Receives patients for testing, collects blood specimens using venipuncture and skin puncture, prepares specimens for analysis and forwards to referral laboratories or other areas. Performs routine electrocardiogram testing where required. Utilizes the Laboratory Information systems and related database system/s to enter data, generate blood collection lists and reports, etc. Answers telephones, files and distributes materials as required.

What you'll do

1. Receives patients and examines test requisition/s to confirm patient demographics are current, checks for physician's signature, enters demographics into Laboratory Information system, prints label indicating patient information such as referring physician, name and test and affixes to requisition. Explains procedure for collection of laboratory specimens and responds to routine inquiries.
2. Greets, identifies and prepares patients for specified tests; collects blood specimens by performing venipuncture and skin puncture in accordance with established procedures, labels specimens with required information and ensures safe disposal of sharps and other material as required. Performs routine lab tests such as urine tests for protein and/or glucose using colour coded dip sticks.
3. Prepares specimens such as blood and urine for analysis. Checks specimen identification against requisition, identifies whether additional tests or special testing is required. Separates serum or plasma from cells by centrifugation and prepares blood films by spreading blood specimen onto slide. Forwards to Technologist for analysis.
4. Receives specimens, spins down and splits specimens into different containers, sorts and labels for testing, logs data into a computerized database and batches specimens in order of established priorities for distribution to applicable area. Stores analyzed specimens and discards outdated specimens as directed in accordance with established facility procedures.
5. Arranges for the shipment of specimens to referral laboratories. Completes forms, packages specimens in accordance with safe procedures and regulations outlined in the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act. Contacts courier, air transport or alternate carriers.
6. Performs routine electrocardiogram testing where required; explains procedure to patient, attaches electrodes to patient and operates electrocardiograph in accordance with established procedures. Checks results for normal/abnormal readings, monitors and documents data such as position of patient, physical reactions and number of leads used to assist physician in interpreting data.
7. Answers telephones, takes and relays messages, pages laboratory and medical staff as required, relays test results, slots patients into available appointments and makes arrangements for patient testing. Responds to general enquiries from patients, nursing wards or external facilities or refers calls of a specific nature to appropriate personnel.
8. Keys a variety of data into computerized databases/on-line systems such as billing information and laboratory results; prints off various reports, labels, blood collection lists, etc. as required. Sorts, files and distributes laboratory reports upon request.
9. Maintains work area by methods such as cleaning blood collection baskets, wiping down counters/work benches with disinfectant, identifies depleting stock and notifies supervisor for order placements.
10. Maintains sufficient levels of stationery supplies according to predetermined levels; identifies depleted items, completes internal requisitions to order replacement items, verifies receipt of items by comparing order to purchase order and stocks shelves.
11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

What you bring

Qualifications

• Grade 12, successful completion of a recognized Lab Assistant training program plus one year's recent related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Ability to type 25 wpm.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to deal with others effectively.
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to organize work.
• Ability to operate related equipment.

Skills & Knowledge

• Commitment to upholding the shared responsibility of creating lasting and meaningful reconciliation in Canada as per TRC (2015) and BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019).
• Knowledge of social, economic, political and historical realities of settler colonialism on Indigenous Peoples and familiarity with addressing Indigenous-specific anti-racism, anti-racism and Indigenous Cultural Safety and foundational documents and legislative commitments (The Declaration Act, the Declaration Action Plan, TRC, IPS, Remembering Keegan, etc.) is a strong asset for consideration.

What we bring

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That's why we're focused on your care too - offering health, wellness, development programs to support you - at work and at home.

• Join one of BC's largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations - offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.
• Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
• Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including municipal pension plan, and psychological health & safety programs and holistic wellness resources.
• Annual statutory holidays (13) with generous vacation entitlement and accruement.
• PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).
• Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of local and national discounts on electronics, entertainment, dining, travel, wellness, apparel, and more.

Job Details: Casual, $29.27/hour, located at 7000 Westminster Hwy, Richmond, BC. Applications accepted until the position is filled. Hours include rotating shifts from early morning to late night.

What we do

Provincial Laboratory Medicine Services (PLMS) provides laboratory testing at 31 sites across BC. Part of the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), committed to equity and creating a diverse, inclusive environment. We uphold legislative obligations including TRC, BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, UNDRIP, and others. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, especially Indigenous applicants, to support our goal of dismantling barriers and addressing systemic inequities.