Technical Lab Assistant

Salem Health; Dallas, Northern (OR, KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Salem Health in Dallas, OR is seeking a Technical Laboratory Assistant to support the rapid collection and processing of patient specimens across clinical disciplines in the Regional Lab - Microbiology/Molecular. You will perform waived and moderately complex tests, use controls to assure accuracy, and exercise judgment on abnormal results.

The role starts early, with 9-hour shifts from 4:00 am to 2:30 pm, and requires attention to procedure manuals.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• One year of laboratory training/experience or three quarters of college lab coursework.
• Familiarity with medical terminology is a strong asset; LIS/HIS experience desirable.
• Light physical work with lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Exposure to infectious materials and hazardous substances possible.

Responsibilities

• All specimens processed promptly upon receipt; critical samples handled immediately.
• Specimens stored properly and handled per procedure manuals.
• Knowledge of specimen requirements for standard tests and research for non-routine procedures.
• Familiar with LIS basics; troubleshoot using error logs and multiple computer functions.
• Calls overdue tests; verify orders and resolve problems without delay.
• Organize and prioritize workload for efficiency and accuracy.

Skills

Medical terminology

LIS/HIS experience

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

3 quarters of college-level lab coursework

Tools

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

Hospital Information Systems (HIS)

Job description

Location: 525 SE Washington St, Dallas, OR 97338
Department: Regional Lab - Microbiology/Molecular
Position Type: Full Time, 1.0 hours
Schedule: 9-hour shifts, 4:00 am to 2:30 pm, [day - day]

Your Role with us

The Technical Laboratory Assistant is responsible for the smooth and timely flow of collecting and /or processing of patient specimens from multiple clinical disciplines. Additionally, the Technical Laboratory Assistant is responsible for the accurate performance and reporting of waived and moderately complex laboratory tests, use of controls to assure accuracy of test results and the exercise of judgment in the case of questionable or abnormal results.

What you'll do

• All specimens are processed promptly upon receipt in the laboratory or department; Critical samples (Code/Trauma/Priority) are processed or collected immediately.
• All specimens are handled or collected appropriately as stated in the procedure manual(s); Specimens are stored properly.
• Has a thorough knowledge of specimen requirements for standard tests and has the knowledge of how to research specimen requirements and handling for procedures not routinely performed.
• Knows basic functions of LIS and how to use them;Can trouble shoot problems using error log and multiple computer functions.
• Calls overdue test and pending logs at times specified in the procedure manual(s); Orders are verified and problems resolved without delay.
• Organizes and prioritizes workload to ensure efficiency and accuracy in the performance of their job duties.

Required qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent required.
  
• One (1) year's laboratory training/experience in a clinical laboratory or minimum of 3 quarters of college level course work that includes laboratory activities.
  
• Familiarity with medical terminology is considered a strong asset in this position; Prior experience with Laboratory Information Systems and Hospital Information Systems is highly desirable.
  
• Must be capable of light physical work which includes sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods of time. Lifting generally consists of items weighing less than 40 pounds.
  
• Job may involve occasional exposure to infectious specimens, as well as other infectious and hazardous materials. Occasional exposure to noxious fumes may occur.

Total rewards package

Salem Health's comprehensive benefits package prioritizes your mental and physical health, financial stability, family obligations, and professional growth.

Why Salem Health?

Salem Health is a Top Workplace in Oregon, known for fostering a supportive culture where your contributions truly matter. As an award-winning, independent health care system, we serve our region through Salem Hospital, multiple community clinics and West Valley Hospital, ensuring broad access to high-quality care.

We believe in empowering our teams. Through Lean principles, staff help drive innovation and solve real problems. We also invest in your growth with professional development, tuition assistance, and clear career pathways. At Salem Health, you’ll find more than a job, you’ll find purpose, connection, and room to thrive.

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status or condition protected by law.

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact [e-mail].