Laboratory Assistant I

Mytpmg; Hampton (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider seeks a Laboratory Assistant I to manage clerical and routine laboratory tasks critical for diagnostic operations. This position emphasizes patient advocacy, accurate specimen processing, and compliance with safety standards. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills and a commitment to quality control within a team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• One year experience in a medical laboratory preferred.
• Ability to read and understand written instructions.
• Required to demonstrate competencies of the position within 2 weeks of hire.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for processing patient specimens for accurate test results.
• Communicates with clients to ensure proper specimen collection.
• Participates in laboratory-related continuing education.

Skills

Knowledge of laboratory testing techniques

Skill in reviewing specimens

Ability to communicate clearly

Skill in operating laboratory equipment

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Certificate of completion from an accredited laboratory training program

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Central Laboratory - Newport News, VA

Position Type: Full Time

Salary Range: Undisclosed

Job Category: Imaging and Laboratory Services

Description

Position Summary

The Laboratory Assistant I is responsible for clerical processing and performance of select routine laboratory tests used in diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for serving as patient advocate and provider clinical and technical support.
• Duties may include phlebotomy and collection of lab specimens for the purpose of testing.
• Responsible for processing patient specimens appropriately to ensure accurate test results.
• Ensure out-sourced labs receive correct patient billing data.
• Performs selected patient tests with attention to precision, accuracy and validity.
• Ensure outgoing results are accurate and reach providers in a timely manner.
• Performs selected quality control checks as outlined in policies and procedures.
• Performs selected maintenance and calibrations as required by manufacturer and CLIA requirements.
• Responsible for select charge entry for lab testing as outlined by the Manager or Laboratory Services Manager.
• Maintains all required documentation to fulfill COLA/CLIA/OSHA and TPMG requirements.
• Communicates with clients (physician office staff and providers) to ensure appropriate specimen collection, handling, transport, and result return.
• Participates in and provides evidence of laboratory related continuing education.
• Successfully participates in proficiency and competency assessments.
• Functions in a multi-disciplinary environment, which requires the application of excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Maintains confidentiality of written or verbal medical information.
• All other duties as requested by the Manager.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of laboratory collection and testing techniques for routine laboratory tests.
• Knowledge of laboratory ordering and specimen processing to ensure accurate test results.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment and testing to operate, maintain and sterilize.
• Knowledge of appropriate medical terminology to communicate with laboratory and medical staff.
• Knowledge of OSHA and safety processes.
• Skill in reviewing requisitions for completeness and appropriate routing.
• Skill in reviewing specimens for appropriate labeling.
• Skill in routing specimens to reference laboratories when appropriate.
• Skill in operating a variety of laboratory instrumentation.
• Skill in preparing accurate reports concerning the results of laboratory tests.
• Skill in communicating clearly with diverse publics.
• Ability to work scheduled hours as defined in the job offer.
• Ability to follow quality control procedures and guidelines to include documentation and evaluation of results.
• Ability to perform waived testing according to established procedures and processes.
• Ability and willingness to maintain, troubleshoot and operate office and laboratory equipment as outlined in policies and procedures to include arranging for repair as necessary.
• Ability to document reagent and other checks according to policies and procedures.
• Ability to determine correct routing of specimens for tests ordered and insurance requirements.
• Ability to manage supply inventory appropriately and communicate shortages as required.
• Ability to establish/maintain effective working relationships with patients, medical staff and the public.
• Ability to read and understand oral and written instructions and follow written protocols.
• Ability to work independently.

Education / Training / Requirements

• High school diploma and or equivalent.
• One year experience in a medical laboratory environment preferred (or)
• Certificate of completion from an accredited laboratory training program (or)
• Transferable skills (e.g., 1 year or more in an armed forces medical laboratory setting) (and)
• Required to demonstrate competencies of the position within 2 weeks of hire

Physical Demands

• Ability to distinguish between all colors.
• Ability to stand and walk for limited periods of time.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time.
• Ability to climb or balance for limited periods of time.
• Ability to occasionally reach, bend, stoop and lift up to 30 lbs. *
• Ability to grasp and hold up to 25 lbs.*
• Ability to hear normal voice level communications in person or through the telephone.
• Ability to speak clearly and understandably.
• Ability to smell.

Success Factors

• Alignment with Company Mission and Core Values
• Excellent Time Management/Organized
• Open Communication/Positive
• Goal Driven
• Excellent Customer Service
• Juggles Multiple Priorities
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail

All statements are essential functions of the position unless identified as non-essential by an asterisk (*).