Job Summary
This role is for a Lab Associate responsible for collecting and processing blood and non‑blood specimens, maintaining specimen integrity, and supporting laboratory testing operations. The position is part‑time, 20 hours per week, located in Boston, MA.
Location
142 Berkley St., Boston, MA 02116
Department
Laboratory
Schedule
Part time, 20 hours/week, Monday - Friday, 8am - 12pm
Primary Responsibilities
- Collect blood specimens for laboratory testing utilizing venipuncture, skin puncture finger sticks, and heel sticks.
- Collect non‑blood specimens such as urine and sputum.
- Verify test requisitions or computer labels for correctness and completeness before collection and bring discrepancies to the attention of the test originator or lab personnel.
- Assemble equipment (tourniquet, needles, disposable containers, etc.) for specified tests or procedures.
- Verify or record patient identity and converse with patients to allay fear of the procedure.
- For venipuncture testing, apply tourniquet, locate the vein, swab with antiseptic, insert needle, withdraw and label the blood container for subsequent processing.
- Accessions and process specimens to prepare them for laboratory testing.
- Record requests for blood collections and answer general questions regarding test orders and collection; take messages or route calls.
- May perform waived or moderately complex testing using a test kit or lab instrument, perform preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration; understand reagent stability and storage; follow quality control procedures.
- May perform proficiency testing, understand factors influencing results, run quality control report before reporting to provide valid patient test results, follow procedure in reporting test values.
- Contribute to general laboratory functions, attend department staff meetings and in‑service training.
- Maintain a neat, clean work area and restock daily supplies.
- May perform receptionist duties including greeting patients, reviewing laboratory request sheets, informing patients of additional instructions and responding to questions.
- Perform various computer functions related to specimen processing.
- Perform clerical duties: record daily specimen volumes, maintain supplies of patient questionnaires, and file records.
- May assist in training student interns and new employees.
- May assist in various clinical areas to help with specimen processing and testing procedures.
- Adhere to laboratory policies and procedures; review them annually.
- Ensure effective communication, collaboration, and cooperation with coworkers, medical staff, and supervisors; inform them of workflow or technical issues.
- Adhere to all PPE while handling biohazards, especially use of gloves and handwashing.
- Utilize safety devices for sharps per established procedures.
- Ability to draw all ages.
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
- Graduation from a Phlebotomy technical training program.
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) certification.
- Previous phlebotomy experience or equivalent externship experience.
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS).
- Knowledge of medical terminology obtained through up to one year of medical practice experience.
- Proficiency in the use of Lab Information Systems (LIS) and Electronic Medical Records (EMR).
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and customer service orientation.
Compensation & Benefits
Hourly pay ranges from $16.15 to $28.80 per hour based on full‑time employment. Benefits include a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase plan, and 401(k) contribution. All benefits are subject to eligibility requirements.
Drug Test Requirement
Applicants are required to pass a drug test before commencing employment.
Equal Employment Opportunity
UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and will consider qualified applicants without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.