Laboratory Assistant - Per Diem

Geisinger; Scranton (Lackawanna County); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan with automatic contributions

Free Care.com membership

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

MyHealth Rewards wellness program

Job summary

Geisinger in Scranton is looking for a dedicated Laboratory Assistant to join our medical laboratories team. You will play a crucial role in processing patient specimens and ensuring compliance with laboratory standards.

This position requires attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to manage tasks efficiently. Ideal candidates should have a High School Diploma or GED, with opportunities for those pursuing or holding a degree in a clinical science.

Qualifications

• Less than 1 year of experience for Laboratory Assistant I.
• Minimum 1 year of experience or relevant degree for Laboratory Assistant II.
• ASCP Certification as a Medical Laboratory Assistant accepted.

Responsibilities

• Process patient specimens in preparation for testing.
• Maintain computer logs and quality control procedures.
• Handle phone inquiries regarding specimen collection and results.

Skills

Attention to detail

Laboratory techniques

Computer literacy

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor or Associate degree in clinical or related science

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Job Summary

Join our team at Geisinger Medical Laboratories. You can find your passion for caring and innovation as a team member in our state‑of‑the‑art laboratories. Our mission is to provide exceptional patient care through innovative, efficient, and high‑quality laboratory services.

Job Duties

• Assesses, accessions, and processes patient specimens in preparation for testing in the various sections of Laboratory Medicine.
• Safely handles potentially infectious blood, body fluids, body tissues and other patient specimens in compliance with regulatory standards.
• Assesses suitability and acceptability of patient specimens; rejects unacceptable specimens according to established protocols.
• Matches order information with specimen information to ensure accuracy and patient safety.
• Accessions and reports results according to procedure via appropriate computer application.
• Correctly assigns billing numbers, location codes, and physician numbers; verifies physician orders when test requests are unclear.
• Prepares specimens, including centrifugation, aliquoting, labeling; delivers prepared specimens to appropriate testing area in a timely manner.
• Applies laboratory programs to store specimens and to locate, retrieve, and process specimens for additional testing as requested.
• Maintains computer logs, quality control, disinfection procedures, and departmental assigned duties.
• Manages phone inquiries and provides information regarding specimen collection, transport, and patient results as appropriate.
• Navigates and accesses multiple computer applications as needed.
• Assists with packaging ordering and referral of specimens to reference laboratories in compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation and commercial carrier regulations.
• Troubleshoots missing specimens and other preanalytical errors, including courier log review and specimen archives.
• Maintains equipment, participates in established preventative maintenance program, and alerts supervisor of any equipment problems.
• Assists in proper handling, storage, and maintenance of supplies; notifies supervisor when inventory is low.
• Successfully completes initial and periodic competency assessments for all assigned job functions.
• Works typically in a clinical environment and is accountable for satisfying all job‑specific obligations and complying with all organization policies and procedures.

Educational and Other Requirements

• Laboratory Assistant I – less than 1 year of experience; HS diploma or GED.
• Laboratory Assistant II – Minimum 1 year of experience or one of the following will be accepted in lieu of required experience:
  • Bachelor or Associate degree in clinical or related science field.
  • Enrollment with a minimum of at least two semesters completed of an associate or bachelor’s degree in clinical or related science field that includes introductory classes in biology or chemistry.
  • ASCP Certified as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA).

Benefits

• 401(k) plan that includes automatic Geisinger contributions.
• Free Care.com membership with discounted backup care for your loved ones.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Referrals for childcare, eldercare, & pet care; access free legal guidance, mental health visits, work‑life support, digital self‑help tools and more.
• MyHealth Rewards wellness program to improve your health.
• Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED).
• Experience: Certification(s) and License(s).
• Skills: (List of desired skills and competencies).

Work Hours and Location

Location: Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) | Shift: Rotation | Scheduled Weekly Hours: 0 | Worker Type: Regular | Exemption Status: No

EEO Statement

We are proud to be an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability or their protected veteran status.