Laboratory Assistant (Full-Time, Variable Shifts)

Laboratory Assistant Department: Laboratory Services Location: Canton-Potsdam Hospital | 50 Leroy St. Potsdam, NY 13676 Hours Per Week: 37.5 Schedule: 7.5-hour, variable shifts, every 4th weekend rotation SUMMARY The primary role of a Laboratory Assistant is to receive and track patient samples into the laboratory information system, maintaining specimen integrity for all laboratory testing in the support of the operation of the laboratory. RESPONSIBILITIES: Notifies departments of problem resolutions pertaining to specimen discrepancies. Understands and follows departmental policies and safety procedures to reduce risk of blood and body fluid exposure. Retrieves samples from Specimen Processing and delivers to the appropriate testing department. Maintains inventory, receives and stocks ordered items, checks expiration dates, logs in media and reagents. Answers phone calls, making leadership aware of any issues that may arise. Performs daily sample pending review, monitors batch testing pending, and locating missing samples in support of testing operation. Performs daily support system checks for functionality and verification that they are in proper working order. i.e. water system, deionized water system. Elevate to leadership when systems deviate from expected tolerances. Provides proficiency testing support by receiving surveys, ordering in LIS, assigning to MTs and filing paperwork. Performs quality control verification of pipettes, timers, balances and other laboratory equipment. Refers unresolved problems to MT or supervisor for assistance. Sorts and loads samples onto lab automation systems Continuously assesses work processes and makes suggestion to supervisor for improved work methods and ways to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and solve operational problems. Monitors departmental reagent inventories and notifies appropriate person when supplies reach reorder level. Works with supervisor and other laboratory staff to plan for, and accomplish, departmental and organizational goals and objectives. Promotes and supports a positive team environment within the department. Performs additional duties as directed by supervisor. Communicates with external customers when presented with problems or special requests and reports them to the appropriate leader. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Associate's degree in the medical field preferred Minimum of 2 years laboratory experience preferred Ability to receive and track patient samples into the laboratory information system Ability to maintain specimen integrity for all laboratory testing EDUCATION: LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS: PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: M - Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting. For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements. Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee's physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations. PAY RANGE: $18.00 - $21.56 CITY: Potsdam POSTAL CODE: 13676 The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts. Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Rochester Regional Health is an integrated health services organization serving the people of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, St. Lawrence County, and beyond. The system includes nine hospitals; primary and specialty practices, rehabilitation centers, ambulatory campuses and immediate care facilities; innovative senior services, facilities and independent housing; a wide range of behavioral health services; and Rochester Regional Health Laboratories and ACM Global Laboratories, a global leader in patient and clinical trials. It's vision is to lead the evolution of healthcare to enable every member of the communities it serves to enjoy a better, healthier life.