LAB ASSISTANT - UFCW at Mason Health – Shelton, Washington

Lab Assistant: This 1.0FTE/Full-Time position is scheduled to work 8-HR variable day shifts and is UFCW represented.

Compensation: Non-Exempt, $21.61/HR-$35.22/HR

Benefits:

Benefits Include:

At Mason Health, we are committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive benefits package that supports both your professional growth and personal well-being. Whether you are a Part-time or Full-time member:

Health & Wellness Benefits:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – With employer paid premiums for full-time employees
• Mental Health & Wellness Resources – Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Talkspace, and the Calm App.
• Life Insurance
• Short & Long-Term Disability Insurance

Financial Benefits:

• Retirement/Deferred Compensation Plans – Mason Health contributes 8% of your compensation every pay period when you contribute at least 5%.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Approved by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for student loan repayment programs.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance:

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) – Accrue up to 8 hours of PTO every bi-weekly pay period, starting with 5 weeks of PTO and increasing to 7+ weeks after 3 years.

Exciting Incentive:

• Employee Referral Program – Earn up to $7,500 depending on the role.

Job Summary:
The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for accurate and efficient specimen procurement, specimen processing, and specimen distribution including collecting, preparing specimens for testing, and distribution of blood and other body fluid samples. Laboratory Assistants provide patient and client services and perform other clerical duties.

Job Specific Duties & Responsibilities:

1. Assess patients prior to obtaining a blood sample (diet, medications). Follows the laboratory’s procedures for collecting samples for testing. Identify patients/clients properly and label specimens correctly.
2. Collect timed tests (fasting, glucose tolerance, and therapeutic drugs) according to established protocols.
3. Obtain blood specimens by skin puncture or venipuncture using appropriate techniques. Maintain the integrity of the specimen in relation to the tests to be performed. . Collect urine drug screens according to chain of custody protocols. Administer Breath Alcohol Test. Obtain Legal Blood Alcohol samples. Perform therapeutic phlebotomies.
4. Maintain the integrity of the specimen in relation to the tests to be performed. Use correct preservatives for specimen collection. Provide post-collection care to the patient. Assess patient problems related to a venipuncture and be able to provide or seek appropriate help. Instruct patients and other health care professionals in proper collection, transport, and handling of specimens.
5. Centrifuge the specimens and prepare aliquots or components of specimens according to the specifications of the test to be performed. Correlate proper specimen collection to the accuracy of specimen analysis. Adhere to test specific special handling techniques. Consult with technologists and technicians in determining the integrity of a sample. Assess specimen issues and find the appropriate resolution.
6. Perform computer functions related to client services, order entry and specimen distribution processes. Prepare paperwork and samples to be sent to reference laboratories. Perform clerical work such as record keeping, filing, delivering and mailing reports. Perform client service functions such as answering phones, assisting other healthcare professionals and patients with lab related questions, faxing reports, giving verbal reports.
7. Collects samples from patients in a variety of settings, including provider offices, outpatient draw stations, emergency triage, surgery, and inpatient rooms.
8. Assists with the orientation and training of new Laboratory Assistants as directed. Supports departmental success by demonstrating standard procedures, reinforcing safety and quality practices, and helping new staff become familiar with laboratory workflows.
9. Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

1. High school diploma or equivalent is required for employees starting in the role without a Medical Assistant- Phlebotomist (MA-P) license in place.
2. One (1) year of Lab Assistant experience, preferred.

Required Licenses, Certifications and/or Registrations:

1. Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist license. Individuals hired have 6 months from the date of hire to become licensed and must provide proof of completion of accredited Phlebotomy program in the absence of the MA-P license.