Laboratory Assistants are responsible for the front-end, pre-analytical operations in their area of responsibility. They are the front-line/public relations members of the laboratory team and need to maintain appropriate professionalism in a stressful and unpredictable working environment. Under appropriate levels of supervision, as required by regulatory agencies, the Laboratory Assistant II assignments may include: Processing of all types of specimens, operating Laboratory and Hospital Information Systems for data entry and retrieval, providing client services, performing microbiology procedures, and limited operation of automated instrumentation.
ResponsibilitiesThis is not an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees will be required to perform any job, with related instruction given by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
- Processes laboratory specimens, operates computer equipment for requisition entry, specimen receipt, and specimen accessioning. Maintains and evaluates specimen integrity and prepares aliquots of specimens for analysis according to specifications. Monitors supplies for the area and orders and stocks supplies as indicated. Transports specimens and blood products to/from the laboratory. (35%)
- Utilizes computer equipment for result inquiry. Provides accurate and complete information concerning laboratory procedures and laboratory results using laboratory communication equipment. Answers phone requests for information about laboratory tests and disseminates the information accurately. Interprets orders and recognizes and reports unusual requests or problems to appropriate personnel. (20%)
- Provides client services in a professional and caring manner. Maintains the highest standards of conduct in hospitality, excellence, appearance, attitude, and respect. Uses best judgment in all interactions with clients (patients, families, coworkers, medical staff, and others). Maintains confidentiality with information and data within the scope of the position. Demonstrates excellent communication skills. (15%)
- Organizes work time to prioritize, perform and complete assigned tasks to meet lab-wide needs and deadlines. Able to work as a team player in regard to workstation, shift and schedule needs to best serve laboratory and hospital goals. Effectively communicates with team members in order complete assigned tasks and prioritize duties as needed. Participates with the training of new employees in the area. (15%)
- Attends all mandatory education in-services and maintains own checklists. Completes competency evaluations. Performs glassware washing functions, and other functions, as assigned. (15%)
All job qualifications listed indicate the minimum level necessary to perform this job proficiently.
LEVEL OF EDUCATION:
Preferred:
- College level coursework in anatomy, physiology, chemistry and/or biology.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum:
- Computer keyboard skills.
Preferred:
- Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
YEARS OF RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE:
Preferred:
- Clinical laboratory experience or comparable training and experience that provide skills to perform the job tasks competently.
Top Skills
What We Do
Mission Statement: To provide superior health care for and improve the health of our communities through a commitment to our core values of excellence, integrity, and compassion. Founded in 1888, the not-for-profit Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital has been serving the community for more than 125 years. Cottage Health, formed in 1996 as the not-for-profit parent organization of Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and its affiliated Cottage Children’s Medical Center, Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital, Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital, and Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, is guided by a volunteer board of directors from the greater Santa Barbara community and provides the residents of the Central and South Coast with exemplary health care, continuous improvements in medical practice, and a commitment to our communities.
