Clinical Laboratory Assistant 1

University of Miami; Miami, Northern (FL, KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Miami Clinical Laboratory Assistant 1 supports routine lab operations by handling specimens, data entry, and assisting technologists across the department. You will receive, sort, verify specimens, prepare processing, and help ensure sample integrity and timely communication of results to nursing staff.

Training is provided; no prior experience required. Candidates should be detail-oriented, able to work in a fast-paced environment, and maintain HIPAA and safety standards while

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; relevant certifications or license optional.
• No prior experience required.
• Strong attention to detail and clear communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Receive, sort, and accurately verify clinical laboratory specimens (e.g., urine, stool, swabs, sputum, blood) for testing and analysis.
• Prepare and process specimens according to established laboratory protocols and testing requirements.
• Perform data entry and/or scanning of specimen and patient information into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) with accuracy and timeliness.
• Ensure all laboratory equipment is functioning properly; perform routine maintenance and minor troubleshooting as needed.
• Identify and resolve specimen-related issues in collaboration with laboratory staff and supervisors.
• Handle, prepare, receive, and track specimens in the Referrals Bench (Send-Outs), coordinating workflow across various departments and reference laboratories (e.g., Quest, LabCorp, Viracor).
• Maintain adequate inventory of test bench supplies and replenish as necessary to support uninterrupted operations.
• Uphold a clean, organized, and safe work environment in compliance with laboratory safety and infection control policies.
• Accurately complete logs, documentation, and administrative tasks as assigned.
• Answer phones professionally and promptly, provide accurate information or transfer calls appropriately and communicate clearly with nursing and clinical staff regarding specimen issues or missing data (e.g., labeling errors, hemolyzed samples).
• Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure compliance with quality assurance and regulatory standards

Skills

Learning Agility

Teamwork

Technical Proficiency

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent/relevant experience, certification or license

Job description

**CORE JOB SUMMARY** The Clinical Laboratory Assistant 1 performs a variety of routine duties in assisting technical and professional personnel in clinical and research laboratories. An employee in this position provides broad support for the laboratory operations. **CORE JOB FUNCTIONS** 1. Identifies, handles, and accessions patient samples requiring laboratory testing. 2. Transports specimens and communicates test results timely and accurately. 3. Maintains required laboratory files and logs system in a neat and accurate manner. 4. Performs specimen processing, such as centrifugation, aliquoting, and volume measurement. 5. Maintains adequate inventory level as per protocol. 6. Participates in the performance improvement processes for the department. 7. Maintains assigned work area in a clean and orderly condition. 8. Maintains confidentiality of all patient information according to federal and state guidelines and regulations. 9. Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets. This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary. **CORE QUALIFICATIONS** Education: High School Diploma or equivalent/relevant experience, certification or license Experience: No previous experience required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: * Learning Agility: Ability to learn new procedures, technologies, and protocols, and adapt to changing priorities and work demands.* Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with others and contribute to a team environment.* Technical Proficiency: Skilled in using office software, technology, and relevant computer applications.* Communication: Strong and clear written and verbal communication skills for interacting with colleagues and stakeholders. **DEPARTMENT ADDENDUM****Department Specific Functions**1. Receive, sort, and accurately verify clinical laboratory specimens (e.g., urine, stool, swabs, sputum, blood) for testing and analysis.2. Prepare and process specimens according to established laboratory protocols and testing requirements.3. Perform data entry and/or scanning of specimen and patient information into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) with accuracy and timeliness.4. Ensure all laboratory equipment is functioning properly; perform routine maintenance and minor troubleshooting as needed5. Identify and resolve specimen-related issues in collaboration with laboratory staff and supervisors.6. Handle, prepare, receive, and track specimens in the Referrals Bench (Send-Outs), coordinating workflow across various departments and reference laboratories (e.g., Quest, LabCorp, Viracor).7. Maintain adequate inventory of test bench supplies and replenish as necessary to support uninterrupted operations.8. Uphold a clean, organized, and safe work environment in compliance with laboratory safety and infection control policies9. Accurately complete logs, documentation, and administrative tasks as assigned.10. Answer phones professionally and promptly, provide accurate information or transfer calls appropriately and communicate clearly with nursing and clinical staff regarding specimen issues or missing data (e.g., labeling errors, hemolyzed samples).11. Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure compliance with quality assurance and regulatory standards**Department Specific Qualifications****Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes:****Knowledge*** Basic understanding of laboratory safety procedures and infection control.* Familiarity with specimen handling, labeling, and processing protocols.* Knowledge of medical terminology and test requisitions.* Understanding of basic computer systems, including LIS (Laboratory Information System).* Awareness of quality control principles and documentation practices.* Knowledge of specimen storage requirements and transport conditions.* Understanding of confidentiality and HIPAA compliance.**Skills*** Strong attention to detail and accuracy in labeling and data entry.* Collaborate effectively with technologists, nurses, and other assistants* Effective time management and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.* Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and performing routine maintenance.* Clear written and verbal communication.* Ability to work independently and as part of a team.* Critical thinking and problem solving when discrepancies arise.* Adaptability to new procedures, technologies, or workflow changes.**Attitudes*** Dependable and punctual with a strong sense of responsibility.* Positive and professional attitude toward coworkers and other departments.* Commitment to maintaining patient safety and specimen integrity.* Willingness to learn and continuously improve.* Assists in orienting or training new staff or students* Respectful, courteous, and cooperative in a team setting.* Strong work ethic with pride in accuracy and quality.* Support workload balance during peak times* Calm and composed under pressure or during high workload periods.The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, tuition remission and more.