Clinical Lab Assistant I - Patient-Centered Diagnostics

Penn Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Health System; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn Medicine in Philadelphia is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to process clinical specimens for diagnostic testing, following SOPs and maintaining accurate logs. This role supports patient care across shifts while upholding safety and HIPAA standards.

You will operate the pneumatic tube system, ensure specimen integrity, and assist with routine procedures and training. A high school diploma is required, with preferred ASCP PBT/MLA certification and LIS experience.

Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma or GED is required.
• Equivalent experience may substitute for formal education.
• Prior experience in hospital laboratory receiving area is preferred.
• Prior experience with the Laboratory Information System is preferred.
• ASCP Certification (PBT/MLA) is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs assigned patient-sample processing activities Follows established SOPs for the ordering and processing of biological specimens for analysis and evaluates and solves problems related to that process.
• Operates the pneumatic tube system properly and observes all Infection Control policies while handling specimens
• Provides timely distribution of specimens to appropriate laboratory sections
• Maintains accurate and orderly log records and/or worksheets where required according to SOPs.
• Maintains a safe and orderly work area
• Demonstrates safe work practices
• Keeps work area free from personal documents & items.
• Answers phone in a professional, courteous, and timely manner speaking to caller in a caring manner
• Answers questions or refers callers to the appropriate source
• Avoids putting caller on hold or transferring call unnecessarily
• Researches phone inquiries regarding specimen collection or test results by referencing available manuals and records, and calls caller back promptly.
• Understands collection requirements for special or referral testing, prepares specimens, ensures integrity and correctness of sample, and arranges for dispatch and pick-up of specimens as needed
• Keeps current with laboratory minutes and documented changes
• Maintains inventory of equipment and supplies, and appropriately communicates the need to re-order before supplies run out.
• Assist with the instruction of procedures and techniques to other employees
• Performs daily temperature checks on rooms, refrigerators, freezers, incubators and preventive maintenance on centrifuges as needed.
• Complies with Hospital, Laboratory, Safety and HIPAA regulations
• Notifies Supervisor or Safety Officer of hazards when found
• Completes annual mandatories on or before the due date
• Responsible for maintaining adequate staffing on all three shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Education

H.S. Diploma/GED (Required)

Equivalent Experience

Prior experience in hospital laboratory receiving area

Prior experience with the Laboratory Information System

Job description

Penn Medicine in Philadelphia is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to process clinical specimens for diagnostic testing, following SOPs and maintaining accurate logs. This role supports patient care across shifts while upholding safety and HIPAA standards.

You will operate the pneumatic tube system, ensure specimen integrity, and assist with routine procedures and training. A high school diploma is required, with preferred ASCP PBT/MLA certification and LIS experience.