Lab Assistant I

Boone County Development Agency; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Boone County Development Agency in Kentucky is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our clinical laboratory team. The role involves collecting, processing, and distributing patient specimens, ensuring accurate labeling and timely reporting while upholding patient safety and high-quality service.

Candidates should have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and be prepared for roles ranging from entry level to more advanced duties, including venipuncture, specimen handling, and collaboration with

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform venipuncture and/or capillary-puncture to obtain blood specimens, including travel to nursing homes as needed.
• Process specimens (centrifugation, distribution, packaging) for in-house and reference lab testing.
• Ensure all specimens are labeled correctly and processed according to standard procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of patient information at all times.
• Follow Protocols for Specimen Collection and verify containers and procedures.
• Maintain accurate and legible records to prevent reporting errors; ensure lab orders are signed, dated, and include a diagnosis.
• Review fax logs to verify transmission of reports.
• Communicate clearly with healthcare team to ensure quality patient care.
• Administer procedures safely and in a timely manner according to orders and lab policies.
• Demonstrate proficient technical and clinical skills on lab equipment and instruments.
• Follow universal precautions and OSHA guidelines.
• Perform clerical tasks: answer phones, file, fax, and distribute lab reports; access and fax patient lab results; monitor temperatures of equipment; restock supplies; monitor inventory.
• Additional responsibilities for Lab Assistant III include orientation of new staff, creating schedules, taking night/weekend calls, and maintaining department procedures.

Skills

Venipuncture

Specimen collection

Lab safety

Documentation

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Summary

BCHC is seeking a skilled and dedicated Lab Assistant to join our laboratory team. The Lab Assistant will be responsible for the collection, processing, and distribution of patient specimens, adhering to all department identification policies. The role involves performing, evaluating, and reporting patient specimens using point-of-care instrumentation and supporting the smooth operation of the laboratory while ensuring the highest standards of customer service and patient safety.

Qualifications

Lab Assistant I (Entry Level)

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Knowledge of medical terminology preferred

Lab Assistant II

• One to three months of related experience and/or training preferred
• Valid driver’s license required
• Specimen Collection & Processing
  • Perform venipuncture and/or capillary-puncture to obtain blood specimens from patients, including travel to nursing homes as needed.
  • Process specimens (centrifugation, distribution, packaging) for in-house and reference lab testing.
  • Ensure all specimens are labeled correctly and processed according to standard procedures.
  • Maintain confidentiality of patient information at all times.
• Follow Protocols for Specimen Collection
  • Verify the appropriate container/tube for each test and any special procedures required.
  • Screen received specimens for appropriateness and accuracy.
• Maintain Laboratory Records
  • Maintain accurate and legible records to prevent reporting errors.
  • Ensure that all lab orders are signed, dated, and include a diagnosis.
  • Review fax logs to verify the successful transmission of all faxed reports.
• Effective Communication
  • Communicate clearly and collaborate with other healthcare team members to ensure quality patient care.
• Administer procedures safely and in a timely manner according to healthcare provider orders and lab policies.
• Demonstrate proficient technical and clinical skills on lab equipment and instruments.
• Use proper body mechanics and transfer/lifting techniques to minimize injury.
• Follow universal precautions throughout all phases of specimen collection, preparation, and testing.
• Adhere to OSHA guidelines and safety regulations.
• Perform Clerical and Administrative Functions
  • Answer department phones, file, fax, and distribute lab reports.
  • Access patient lab results and fax them as needed.
  • Take and record temperatures of laboratory equipment (refrigerators, incubators, etc.).
  • Perform computer order entry and restock lab supplies.
  • Monitor inventory and communicate supply needs with central purchasing.
• Additional Responsibilities for Lab Assistant III
  • Assist with orientation of new staff to the department and duties.
  • Create and maintain the phlebotomist work schedule.
  • Take calls during nights/weekends and assist with problem-solving within the lab and other departments.
  • Develop and maintain department procedures and order testing supplies.
  • Maintain department lists and assist with lab maintenance.

BCHC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.