Lab Assistant

JOB SUMMARY:

Position: Lab Assistant - Embedder
Company: Clin-Path Diagnostics, LLC
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 PM to 3:30 AM

The Lab Assistant - Embedder plays an important role in supporting daily histology laboratory operations at Clin-Path Diagnostics. This position is responsible for embedding tissue samples, loading and unloading surgical specimens on tissue processors, assisting with processor and stainer chemical changes, filing blocks and slides, and maintaining assigned laboratory areas and equipment.

The Lab Assistant - Embedder works closely with the Histology department and may assist with additional laboratory functions as assigned. This position may involve minimal handling of hazardous waste and requires strict adherence to company policies, safety procedures, and applicable regulatory standards.

This position may support several laboratory areas and functions, including:

• Embedding tissue samples

• Loading and unloading surgical specimens on tissue processors

• Filing blocks and slides

• Assisting the Histology department as assigned

• Performing quality control documentation

• Maintaining clean and organized equipment, supplies, and assigned work areas

• Assisting with processor and stainer chemical changes

• Transferring used chemicals from stainers and tissue processors to appropriate 90-day accumulation containers

• Troubleshooting and problem solving

• Maintaining communication with the Histology Lab Supervisor/Manager

• Handling hazardous waste in accordance with safety procedures

Employees are responsible for following all company policies and procedures. These policies and procedures include adherence to regulatory standards, including CAP, CLIA, OSHA, safety requirements, hazardous waste procedures, and all applicable laboratory procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Essential functions of the job include, but are not limited to:

• Embeds tissue samples according to established laboratory procedures.

• Loads and unloads surgical specimens on tissue processors.

• Files blocks and slides as needed.

• Assists the Histology department with daily duties and laboratory support needs.

• Performs daily quality control documentation as required.

• Maintains equipment and supplies in clean condition.

• Assists with transferring used chemicals from stainers and tissue processors to designated 90-day accumulation containers.

• Performs troubleshooting and problem solving related to assigned duties.

• Maintains communication with the Histology Lab Supervisor and/or Manager regarding workflow, equipment, and laboratory needs.

• Follows all established safety procedures when working with patient specimens, chemicals, equipment, and hazardous waste.

• Uses appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, masks, lab coats, and gloves when required.

• Maintains attention to detail while performing repetitive and time-sensitive tasks.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS, ENVIRONMENT:

• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds occasionally, up to 20 pounds frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds routinely to move objects.

• Employee may be exposed to blood products, knife cuts, hazardous waste, chemical fumes, and other laboratory-related hazards.

• Appropriate precautionary measures must be followed at all times.

• Use of protective gear such as eye protection, masks, gloves, lab coats, and other personal protective equipment may be required.

• Hazardous waste training is required.

• Must be able to perform duties in a laboratory environment while maintaining attention to detail and following established safety procedures.

EQUIPMENT USED:

• Microwave tissue processors

• Conventional tissue processors

• Embedding center

• H&E stainers

• Coverslipper

• Typical laboratory equipment

• Computer

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• Prior laboratory, healthcare, specimen processing, or related work experience preferred.

• Ability to accurately enter and verify information in laboratory systems.

• Ability to follow written procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced laboratory environment.

• Ability to perform assigned duties while maintaining accuracy, safety, and quality standards.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the duties of this job. This position operates in a clinical laboratory environment and requires professionalism, accuracy, attention to detail, adherence to safety procedures, and compliance with applicable regulatory standards.

Employees may encounter blood products, biological specimens, hazardous waste, chemical fumes, and potential knife-cut hazards. Appropriate precautionary measures and personal protective equipment must be used at all times as required. Hazardous waste training is required.

Clin-Path provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin

BENEFITS:

Clin-Path Associates offers nationally competitive compensation and benefits. Our benefits program provides a comprehensive array of services to our employees, including but not limited to:

• Health insurance, primarily covered by the company

• Dental insurance, 100% covered by the company

• Vision insurance

• Paid time off

• Retirement contributions through 401(k)

• Flexible spending account (FSA)