Specimen Accessioner, Laboratory Assistant

Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network, Inc.; Maryville (TN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading laboratory specializing in molecular pathology diagnostics is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Assistant to manage medical samples and support laboratory operations. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong analytical skills and attention to detail, ensuring accurate specimen processing while collaborating with a dedicated team. This full-time position offers weekend pay differentials and comprehensive benefits including health and life insurance.

Benefits

401(k) matching

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Flexible spending account

Paid time off

Employee assistance program

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Paid sick time

Qualifications

• Must possess attention to detail.
• Knowledge of specimen processing and tube types is a plus.
• Must be detail-oriented and have critical thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Receive and process medical samples efficiently.
• Perform metrology calibration of devices.
• Maintain good communication with testing departments.

Skills

Attention to detail

Critical thinking skills

Troubleshooting skills

Ability to work as a team

Typing and general computer skills

Good verbal and written communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associates degree or higher in a science-related field

Job description

Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network, Inc. (MPLN) and its research division Geneuity Clinical Research Services (MPLN/Geneuity) is a privately held College of American Pathologists, New York State Department of Health and ISO15189 accredited laboratory. We offer molecular pathology diagnostic laboratory and contract clinical research services specializing in oncology, infectious disease, women's health, and clinical trials.

Clinical Laboratory Assistants/Accessioners are responsible for the proper handling of medical samples in a timely and efficient manner including receiving, entering, verifying, and delivery of specimens. This position also performs metrology calibration of devices along with tasks in the laboratory to support daily operations. CLAs interface with the various testing departments at MPLN to offer effective and timely assistance.

This position’s schedule is Tuesday to Friday 9 hours per day plus 4 hours on Saturday with an occasional Sunday Rotation. Weekend hours include an additional $2.50 per hour shift differential pay.

To be successful in this position, the applicant must possess:

• Attention to detail
• Critical thinking skills
• Troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work as a team
• Typing and general computer skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Specimen Processing

• Receive/sign for specimens delivered by local or STAT courier.
• Sort and unpack specimens based on specific specimen/facility criteria.
• Read and comprehend work instructions for each individual clinical trial study.
• Follow all steps of work instructions to enter specimen information details into LIS (Laboratory Information System). This includes general computer skills such as typing and 10-key data entry.
• Initiate discrepancy if problems arise with specimen or paperwork accompanying specimen.
• Scan paperwork into MPLN’s electronic filing system.
• Deliver specimens to appropriate departments.
• Store specimens based on storage requirements either when a discrepancy has been initiated or the testing department is not able to process sample right away.
• Prepare specimens for delivery to outside laboratories.
• Maintain good working relationship and open lines of communication with medical technologists.
• Daily wipe down of work stations and completion of daily quality control logs.
• As delegated by manager, represent the accessioning department in laboratory meetings/functions.
• Work with manager to develop guidelines for prioritizing work activities, evaluating effectiveness, and modifying activities as necessary.
• Demonstrate teamwork by maintaining productive relationships with colleagues in a cooperative manner to enhance harmony and productivity in the laboratory.
• Contact client services as necessary to resolve specimen discrepancies with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ensure that all orders are correct by second reviewing the work of other accessioners.

Clinical Laboratory Assistant Responsibilities:

Perform various CLA tasks as determined by the CLA and accessioning manager. Examples of such tasks include:

• Filing and sending out of various clinical specimen types.
• Completion of daily, weekly, and monthly QC checks.
• Preparation of reagents.
• Performance of daily, weekly, and monthly instrument and system maintenance.
• Transportation of specimens between testing departments.

Utilize good customer service techniques with both clients and coworkers.

• Communicate in a professional manner.
• Ensure that the client’s needs are clear and provide the client with a clear understanding of the service to be provided.

Work with others in a team environment; be courteous and respectful and encourage cooperation.

Maintain familiarity with industry-specific terminology.

Metrology Responsibilities:

Maintain working knowledge of calibration procedures to a level that allows for completion of bi-annual competency assessments.

Verify the calibration of all applicable instrumentation to ISO 17025 level or other, as required:

• Timers
• Thermometers
• Centrifuges
• Liquid baths
• Pipettes

Assist with training and documentation of competency of all CLA staff.

Comply with applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements.

Experience and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is mandatory. Associates degree or higher in a science-related field is preferred. Lab experience can substitute for higher education.
• Knowledge of specimen processing and tube types is a plus
• Must be detail-oriented
• Critical thinking

ENVIRONMENTAL / WORKING CONDITIONS:

Proximity to moving mechanical devices, electrical current, chemicals (toxic, caustic, flammable), fumes, biohazards (contact, airborne, bacterial, and viral), housekeeping cleaning agents including bleach, use of heated devices (hot plates, water baths, steamers).

PHYSICAL / MENTAL DEMANDS:

Mobility: Moderate amount of walking, bending, pushing, turning, crawling, stooping and standing. Lifting capability of 25 lbs. Extensive sitting or standing may be required.

Hand Coordination and manipulation: Moderate amount of reaching, grasping, and handling including keyboarding.

Acuity: Color recognition, depth perception and reading are required.

Candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

MPLN is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Experience:

• Specimen collection / processing: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Maryville, TN 37804 (Required)

Work Location: In person