Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology

Job Summary Job Duties

• 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 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 as appropriate 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 as required.
• Troubleshoots missing specimens and other preanalytical errors including courier log review, 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.

Work is typically performed in a clinical environment. Accountable for satisfying all job specific obligations and complying with all organization policies and procedures. The specific statements in this profile are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements considered necessary to successfully perform the job. Additional competencies and skills outlined in any department-specific orientation will be considered essential to the performance of the job related to that position.

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 OR
• 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 OR
• ASCP Certified as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)
• Hiring Incentive:
  This position qualifies for a $5,000 SIGN ON BONUS for eligible candidates

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC)

Microbiology

Full time

Evenings

• Full benefits (health, dental and vision) starting on day one
• Three medical plan choices, including an expanded network for out-of-area employees and dependents
• Pre-tax savings plans with healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts (FSA) and a health savings account (HSA) with employer contribution
• Company-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan that includes automatic Geisinger contributions
• Generous paid time off (PTO) plan that allows you to accrue time quickly
• Up to $5,000 in tuition reimbursement per calendar year
• MyHealth Rewards wellness program to improve your health while earning a financial incentive
• Family-friendly support including adoption and fertility…