Laboratory Assistant, Cancer Center

JOB SUMMARY:

The Cancer Center Lab Assistant is responsible for venipuncture, specimen processing, preservation of fixation, distribution and tracking, managing reference labs specimens, quality control tests on equipment, knowledge of critical values, and maintaining CLIA/COLA/JC standards. Must have thorough knowledge of test and specimen requirements, including ordering and processing specialty genetic testing, with timely and accurate data entry and maintenance of laboratory documentation of such results. Post training, the team member must be able to function in all areas of the lab with moderate complexity including chemistries, hematology, and immunology with demonstrated competence in processing pediatric, adult, and geriatric specimens.

RESPONSIBILITIES (ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS):

• Process laboratory specimens and report results in all areas of the clinical laboratory (Chemistry, Immunology, Hematology and Urinalysis) while following laboratory policies and procedures.
• Monitor all Hematology QC, Levey Jennings, and perform quality assurance on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Perform all Hematological maintenance to include calibrations and lot comparisons.
• Order and track tumor profiling as well as biomarker analysis on pathological specimens as requested per physician.
• Maintain all appropriate laboratory logs; Follow established procedures for laboratory quality control and reports discrepancies to the appropriate leader to guarantee the lab maintains utmost quality.
• Perform daily, weekly, monthly, or as needed maintenance on instruments and equipment (as appropriate) to ensure all equipment is in working order; Perform calibration of equipment as needed; Troubleshoot instruments, equipment, reagents, and patient specimens when problems occur.
• Order and or maintain general lab supplies; Responsible for the inventory of reagents.
• Comply with established laboratory and infection control standards at all times to protect patients and team members; Follow the exposure control plan/bloodborne and airborne pathogens to minimize exposure to infectious diseases; Keep work area neat and clean; Dispose of biohazard appropriately.
• Read, understand, and comply with departmental policies, protocols, and procedures (i.e., procedure manuals, safety manual, compliance manual, automobile policies and procedures, dress code, team member handbook, and quality assurance manual). Assist in updating lab policy and procedure manuals as needed.
• Attend educational conferences and seminars to stay updated on laboratory methodology, instrumentation, safety, procedures, and policies; Demonstrate knowledge of new testing methods, products, instrumentation and remain informed on all current technologies.
• Communicate all unresolved problems immediately to the appropriate leader for resolution.
• Assist in the orientation and training of new team members as needed.
• Participate on teams and special projects when needed.
• Regular attendance and punctuality for scheduled shifts. Follow department rules regarding scheduling and schedule changes; Demonstrate willingness to adjust schedule to meet departmental needs.
• Appropriately adapt assessment, treatment, and/or care methods to accommodate the physical, cultural, age-specific, and other developmental needs of each person served.
• Utilization of assistive devices for lifting is mandatory.
• Per DRH policy, all required conditions of employment must be met and maintained including required vaccinations.
• This position requires respirator and fit testing. Required testing will be performed on all team members at risk for exposure to airborne infectious diseases, droplet producing procedures, or any caustic chemicals.
• Implement DRH Standards of Behavior and exhibit behaviors consistent with DRH core values. Ensure the confidentiality of patient records and comply with all organizational policies regarding ethical business.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge through continuing education opportunities including internal and external educational offerings.
• Must adhere to safety protocols at all times.
• Per DRH policy, all required conditions of employment must be met and maintained including required vaccinations.
• Implement DRH Standards of Behavior and exhibit behaviors consistent with DRH core values.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications: Communication skills including fluency in oral and written English. Basic computer skills including the ability to send/receive email, navigate information technology associated with the position, and use Electronic Health Record information tools. Ability to remain flexible to quickly adapt to urgent situations. Ability to adapt procedures, processes, tools, equipment, and techniques to accomplish the requirements of the position. Ability to organize and prioritize workload. Strong attention to detail, precision, and commitment to accuracy.

Skill in handling multiple priorities in a high-volume setting. Must have initiative and independent judgment based on professional knowledge. Must use decision making processes in regards to patient care.

Education and/or Experience:  High school diploma or equivalent required. At least 3^rd year undergraduate student in a laboratory major preferred. At least 2 years of laboratory experience required. Previous experience as a laboratory assistant and/or proficiency in performing moderate to complex texting (i.e., chemistries, tumor markers). Knowledge of laboratory procedures to include laboratory equipment and use of a laboratory information system. Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.

Certifications, Licenses, Registrations:  Current, national phlebotomy certification (ASCP or equivalent) preferred. For those positions requiring travel, a current valid driver’s license and automobile liability insurance must be maintained.

Safety-Sensitive Position - This is a “Safety-Sensitive” Position as defined by Oklahoma law.  As such, please be advised that applicants for this position cannot test positive in pre-employment drug tests (or any drug tests administered after employment begins) for the presence of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive component of cannabis.  This is true even if the applicant is in possession of a valid medical marijuana card that otherwise allows the license-holder to legally use and consume medical marijuana. Team Members in “Safety-Sensitive” positions are not permitted to test positive for the presence of THC in any pre-employment drug test, or any other drug test administered after employment begins.  This information is provided to applicants as a resource to the application process.  This is not a request for any applicant to disclose personal medical information during the application process. If you have any questions about the information in this disclaimer please direct these questions to a member of Human Resources.

This position requires respirator and fit testing. Required testing will be performed on all team members at risk for exposure to airborne infectious diseases, droplet producing procedures, or any caustic chemicals.

As a condition of employment, vaccinations are required per DRH Policy.  Medical and Religious Exemptions are available upon request.