Microbiology Assistant/ Full-Time

POSITION SUMMARY: Provide high quality and efficient service to patients through timely and efficient performance of culturing specimens, AFB and gram stain slide preparations, rapid testing and entering results into the LIS system. Responsible for competently handling and processing all Microbiology specimens, ensuring specimen integrity by adhering to laboratory procedures to include receipt, data entry, storage and delivery of specimens to testing areas. Collects nasopharyngeal and throat swabs on outpatients for culture. Serves as a resource for specimen and testing information. Performs Quality Control, simple lab tests, processing blood and other body fluids, sendouts, and other tests as required to adhere to and comply with CAP moderately complex testing requirements.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalent, medical terminology preferred.

EDUCATION: High school diploma or equivalent

CERTIFICATION/LICENSES: Laboratory Assistant certification preferred. Must meet CLIA '88 requirements for performing moderate complexity testing as defined in the Federal Register, Vol. 57, No 40, Subpart 493.1423.

Valid New Mexico drivers license.

SKILLS: Proficient at processing specimens and dispensing critical information in accordance with section, laboratory, and hospital policies and procedures. Must be proficient at receiving specimens and following written procedures for processing specimens. Must be able to read and write English and be able to communicate effectively. Must be able to operate laboratory equipment, computer systems, and manage supply inventory system.

EXPERIENCE: Minimum of two years in laboratory preferred, including experience with microbiology specimen processing, and simple lab tests required.

NATURE OF SUPERVISION:

-Responsible to: Laboratory Director

ENVIRONMENT:

Bloodborne pathogen C: (Routine Exposure Risk. Routine exposure in daily duties. Exposed to potentially infectious material on a regular basis and is part of the expected job task.)

Generally works in a well lighted, ventilated area. Exposure to disagreeable odors, toxic fumes, and high noise levels and fluctuations in temperatures. Position involves high risk exposure to carcinogenic, hazardous and flammable chemicals; biohazardous and radioactive materials; sharp needles and blades; infectious diseases; toxic fumes. Subject to mental stress from working with infectious materials and reporting carried out indoors, at blood drawing stations, or at a desk, bench or bedside. Occasionally, employees may be required to transport themselves to perform their duties at Health Fairs or a patient's place of residence.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: May be required to work more than a standard shift as dictated by workload, staffing, and equipment failure. Sitting, standing, and stooping may be involved throughout the entire shift. Work occasionally requires safe waist-high lifting and transferring of pediatric and adult weights may be required. Ability to unpack and stock supplies lifting <50 lbs. Work requires finger dexterity, good color vision, close work, good hearing, and good vision. Job often requires working rapidly and under time pressure for long periods of time. Keyboard usage with sound ergonomic principles.