LAB ASSISTANT - MICROBIOLOGY at Aultman Health Foundation – CANTON, Ohio

LAB ASSISTANT - MICROBIOLOGY

PURPOSE OF POSITION

Under the direction and supervision of the Microbiology Assistant Manager and Microbiology Technical Specialist, processes Microbiology specimens by logging specimens into the laboratory information system, this includes assuring proper tests and specimen information have been entered correctly. This individual will also plate culture specimens according to the policies and procedures in the Microbiology Laboratory.

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS

• Log specimens into the laboratory information system making sure that orders are correct.
• Process culture specimens.
• Prepare gram stains.
• Load blood culture bottles.
• Monitors tube system punctually; checking for stats and prioritizing work.
• Organization of work areas.
• Stocking supplies.
• Assisting various team members.
• Answering telephone and faxing.
• Effectively communicating. Internal/external communications are frequent among team members, which include the Microbiology team, trainees, clinicians, and nurses.
• Complies with organizational policies, procedures, and code of conduct.
• Other duties as assigned.

Professionalism and Communication

• Accepts responsibilities and maintains an attitude conducive to a cooperative and productive work environment.

• Adheres to all policies described in the Aultman Hospital Code of Conduct and Employee Handbook.
• Follows all policies of the Microbiology Department as described in the Lab Policy Manual.
• Communicates with all persons in a polite and professional manner.
• Adheres to the hospital dress code and maintains a professional appearance.
• Arrives at work on time and begins work promptly.
• Returns promptly from lunch and breaks, following established guidelines.
• Uses spare time for work-related activities.
• Assists the Technical Specialists in the training of personnel when requested.
• Performs necessary duties and tasks as assigned by the Technical Specialist or Assistant Manager

Job Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Preferred experience in Microbiology or Clinical Laboratory setting.
• Must be able to communicate effectively with peers, management, and other healthcare personnel.
• Must be able to work well with others.
• Must be able to multi-task and pay attention to detail.
• Work in an environment that may be exposed to infectious agents.
• Consistently use proper hand hygiene, as biohazardous materials will be present.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling biological specimens and hazardous chemicals.
• Follows safety guidelines when plating specimens.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work eight hours a day. This unit requires 24/7 coverage.
• Work hours are assigned by the Assistant Manager and/or Technical Specialist and can be adjusted depending upon the staffing needs of the department.
• Requires occasional paid overtime before or after normal working hours, if approved.
• Works in a well-lighted and ventilated laboratory.
• Considerable repetitive motion.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS ADDENDUM

PURPOSE: To identify specific functions job requirements and work environment factors that could affect job performance.

O = Occasi 0- 33% of the work shift or 0- 32 repetitions.

F = Frequently = 34-66% of the work shift or 32-200+ repetitions.

C = C 67-100% of the work shift or 200+ repetitions.

N = Not essential job requirement.

F Standing

F Walking

N Lifting (70 pounds)

N Carrying (70 pounds)

N Pushing (70 pounds)

N Climbing with (70 pounds)

O Stooping/Bending

O Twisting/Turning

O Kneeling/Squatting

N Crawling

O Reaching Up/Reaching Forward

Additional information concerning physical requirements for the position:

None