Laboratory Technician

Summary

GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES: Under the supervision of the CLIA lab director and/or Clinical Director, provides laboratory services, includes functioning in the laboratory in accordance with clinic, CLIA/government and outside reference laboratory standards and requirements. Performs Customer Service (clerical/phones/tasks) Lab duties. The Lab Technician is responsible for drawing and collecting quality blood and other lab specimens from patients and preparing and processing specimens for medical testing. The technician must create an atmosphere of trust and confidence while drawing blood in a skillful, safe and accurate manner. Technicians must also clean and sterilize equipment, following strict safety precautions.

Duties

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and SCOPE OF PRACTICE: 

1. Collect specimens from lab or directly from patient
2. Prepare and test specimens, including blood, urine, tissue, and/or other bodily fluids
3. Perform hands-on tasks in drawing blood, including preparing and sterilizing the area, applying pressure, and dressing when complete
4. Monitor vital signs when working directly with patients
5. Analyze and report specimen test results
6. Process, record, and analyze tested data as necessary
7. Enter information into medical databases
8. Work under the supervision of and report to the Clinical Director
9. Look for and identify any cell abnormalities using cell dying processes
10. Work with a pathologist to determine correct diagnosis if cell abnormalities are found
11. Prepare tissue samples for examination by cutting, mounting, staining, etc.
12. Ensure accuracy of tested data results by using appropriate methods of analysis.
13. Wear and ensure proper fit of wearable safety gear (eye protection, clothing, gloves, mask etc.)
14. Maintain a clean work space and sterilize equipment as necessary
15. Adhere to medical safety protocol, including keeping a sterile environment and executing proper hazardous waste disposal
16. Use diagnostic machinery and complex lab equipment as needed

17.  Perform routine specimen procedures such as obtaining specimens. 

18.  Prepare specimens according to lab test requirements 

19.  Must be able to problem solve, using appropriate resources for information gathering. 

21. Maintains simple laboratory records and inventory for supplies and reagents. 

20.  Orders supplies for laboratory use. 

21.  Maintains a clean and sanitary work area in accordance with standard lab practice and procedure. 

22.  The job holder must demonstrate current competencies applicable to the job position.  

 

 

Requirements

EDUCATION: High School diploma or equivalent. Special training required; have documentation of training appropriate for the testing preformed prior to analyzing patient specimens. Associate’s Degree in clinical laboratory, preferred. Strong background in biology or chemistry preferred.

 

EXPERIENCE: Previous experience in phlebotomy preferred. One year experience preferred in a Moderate Complex Lab or higher. Training on specific testing will be provided

 

LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS: None 

 

KNOWLEDGE and ABILITIES: 

 

1.    Knowledge of current medical office practices and protocols.  

2.    Knowledge of infection control, safety, and confidentiality practices. 

3.    Strong communication and customer service skills. 

4.    Strong attention to detail and accuracy, with concise and appropriate documentation. 

5.    Good organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and complete assignments in timely manner. 

6.    Skill in maintaining a safe work environment with attention to infection control, safety and confidentiality policies. 

7.    Skill in performing clinical procedures including but not limited to Vital Signs, ECG’s and PFT’s.  

8.    Strong phone and computer skills. 

9.    Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and report any illegal or unethical act involving another employee or anyone acting on behalf of the organization. 

10.  Ability to work collaboratively with all members of the health care team and promote a positive work environment. 

11.  Ability to respond to ever changing environment reacts calmly and competently in emergency situations. 

12.  Ability to maintain effective working relationships with patients, medical staff and the public. 

13.  Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in person, in writing, and by phone. 

14.  Ability to comply with established policies and procedures. 

15.  Ability to recognize deviations from normal with respect to vital signs and patient overall presentation and reports appropriately. 

 

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS: Requires standing and walking for extensive periods of time. Hand dexterity for office machine operation, stooping and bending to files and supplies, mobility to complete errands or deliveries, or sitting for extended periods of time. Occasionally lifts and carries items weighing up to 50 pounds. Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range. Requires full range of body motion including handling and lifting patients, manual and finger dexterity; for things such as typing, using calculator, and eye-hand coordination  

 

ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS: Work may be stressful at times. Interaction with others is constant and interruptive. Combination of office and exam settings. Frequent exposure to communicable diseases, bodily fluids, toxic substances and other conditions common to laboratory situations. OSHA Blood Borne Pathogen Category 1. 

Benefits

Health Insurance - Dental Insurance - Vision Insurance - Tuition Reimbursement - Life Insurance - 403(b) with match - FSA - EAP - Cancer insurance - accident insurance - paid time off - paid holidays - professional development assistance –