Laboratory Assistant II

Job Summary

Responsible for performing laboratory support procedures in assigned areas, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, and clinical and anatomical pathology support functions. Ensures accurate and timely processing of specimens for analysis while maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies in accordance with safety and quality standards. This position requires practical knowledge of laboratory procedures, strong customer service skills, and adherence to continuing education and department-specific requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs laboratory support procedures in assigned work areas.

• Collects patient, physician, and test order information to create patient accounts and verify identification, insurance, credentials, and testing requirements.

• Receives, processes, aliquots, and transports patient specimens, including centrifugation and preparation for testing.

• Loads specimens onto pre-analytical instruments or delivers them to appropriate testing departments.

• Performs blood specimen collection, including venipuncture and capillary collections for patients of all ages, as applicable.

• Performs point-of-care testing, quality control, maintenance, troubleshooting, documentation, and result reporting, as applicable.

• Supports departmental operations through clerical, receptionist, and customer service functions.

• May perform blood and blood component processing, storage, shipping, modification, and selection using validated transfusion information systems.

• May perform cytopreparatory staining and surgical case accessioning with knowledge of anatomy.

• May receive and prepare primary specimen cultures, including inoculation of media for bacterial growth.

• Performs preventive maintenance, quality assurance procedures, and basic troubleshooting on laboratory equipment.

• Maintains laboratory cleanliness through proper cleaning, disinfection, inventory control, and stocking of supplies.

• Participates in laboratory and hospital performance improvement initiatives and assists with evaluation of new equipment and procedures.

• Trains and mentors new staff and students and serves as a preceptor when assigned.

• Resolves customer service concerns within established guidelines and provides education and support to clinical staff.

• Adheres to all safety policies, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), hand hygiene, hazardous chemical handling, infection prevention practices, and chemical hygiene standards.

• May transport hazardous waste from the point of generation to designated storage areas following required training and safety procedures.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of laboratory procedures, specimen processing, laboratory ordering processes, and healthcare industry practices.

• Ability to process, accession, and evaluate laboratory specimens using laboratory and hospital information systems.

• Strong phlebotomy skills, including venipuncture and capillary collections.

• Ability to assess collected specimens for proper volume, collection containers, and testing requirements.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with patients, staff, and customers from diverse backgrounds.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities.

• Proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office applications.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

• Ability to adapt to change and work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Ability to safely handle infectious biological specimens, hazardous chemicals, and other laboratory materials.

• Minimum typing speed of 30 words per minute preferred.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.

• One year of relevant healthcare experience.

• Basic computer skills and Microsoft Office proficiency.

• Ability to meet continuing education and department-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Completion of a Phlebotomy Training Program.

• Technical or Vocational School training.

• One year of AdventHealth laboratory experience.

Preferred Licensure/Certifications

• Driver's License.

• Phlebotomy Technician (PBT-ASCP).

• Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA-ASCP).

Additional Information

• Additional licensure or certification requirements may apply based on the assigned department, unit, or state of employment. Refer to the applicable credentialing requirements for specific details.