Description
The Laboratory Assistant (Non Phlebotomist) assists the licensed staff in the preanlaytical processes of collection, accessioning and preparation of samples for testing and post-analytically in the reporting of test results to our customers. He/she may assist higher level licensed personnel in the performance of standard laboratory tests on patient specimens. He/she provide clerical and laboratory assistant support to the laboratory as a whole.
Essential Duties
- Identifies the patient correctly using established laboratory procedures when receiving patient specimens or collecting urine samples.
- Checks for accuracy of patient ID against the orders.
- Explains procedures and gives instructions for collection as needed to the patient prior to collecting sample. Collects the appropriate specimen from the correct patient for the test(s) ordered.
- Preserves and stores the specimen properly for the test ordered prior to delivery to the laboratory. Ensures specimen(s) collected by him/her or left in his/her care are delivered to the laboratory in a timely manner.
- Knows specimen requirements and follow specimen rejection guidelines before accepting the specimen(s) into the laboratory.
- Accurately and reliably accessions specimens into the laboratory information system.
- Uses the proper procedures and in a safe manner when using laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, refrigerator/freezers, ultra low freezers, water baths, scales, etc. processing equipment, i.e., centrifuges, scales, etc., in a safe manner.
- Aliquots and identifies the aliquotted samples accurately. Prepares samples for initial testing, referral to Norris laboratory sections and referral laboratories in a timely manner and within the stability limits and turnaround time of the specimen for the test procedures.
- Prioritizes and organizes incoming specimens, orders and blood draws.
- Documents work in the appropriate logs, records, etc. following laboratory policies and procedures.
- Follows up on problem orders/specimens and communicates to the appropriate nursing staff, laboratory supervisory staff and/or physicians, etc.
- Performs routine preventive maintenance on equipment as directed and supervised by licensed personnel.
- Possesses a working knowledge of all procedures and instrumentation in the assigned areas.
- Under constant supervision when assisting licensed personnel in testing procedures and may only perform those duties that are allowed by the State of California, DHS regulations.
- Provide courteous, prompt, accurate and reliable information to all customer inquiries; obtain accurate messages, ensure that routine departmental requests are properly handled and followed through to completion.
- Demonstrates knowledge and use of the hospital and laboratory information systems.
- Is familiar with and observes the Patient Bill of Rights, maintains patient confidentiality.
- Participates in the Department's Quality Assurance Program and continuing education sessions.
- Help monitor supply levels, communicating with the supervisor for supplies that are needed, assisting in monitoring inventory, as assigned
- Assists in training personnel.
- Functions independently in performing responsibilities, organizing and prioritizing work, assisting others when work is caught up.
- Adheres to Safety / Infection Control guidelines using personal protective equipment as required
- Willingness to take on new tasks and additional responsibilities
- Displays flexibility to cover the lab in emergencies and difficult staffing situations
- Adheres to established Hospital and Departmental policies and procedures.
- Performs other related duties as assigned or requested by the supervisor.
Required Qualifications:
- Req High School or equivalent
- Req 1 year Prior experience in a hospital Laboratory setting (or equivalent to include specimen processing/preparation for testing, computer data entry, centrifugation of specimens, microbiology setups of specimens, etc).
- Req Organization/time management skills.
- Req Demonstrate excellent customer service behavior.
- Req Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Pref Associate's Degree 2 years college level courses preferred.
Required Licenses/Certifications:
- Req Fire Life Safety Training (LA City) If no card upon hire, one must be obtained within 30 days of hire and maintained by renewal before expiration date. (Required within LA City only)
The hourly rate range for this position is $22.00– $34.18. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations. Job ID REQ20172419 Posted Date 02/20/2026 Apply Save Job Current employees apply here
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