Laboratory Assistant - Specimen Processing (hiring incentive) - Hennepin County Medical Center

Hennepin Healthcare is an integrated system of care that includes HCMC, a nationally recognized Level I Adult Trauma Center and Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and acute care hospital, as well as a clinic system with primary care clinics located in Minneapolis and across Hennepin County. The comprehensive healthcare system includes a 473-bed academic medical center, a large outpatient Clinic & Specialty Center, and a network of clinics in the North Loop, Whittier, and East Lake Street neighborhoods of Minneapolis, and in the suburban communities of Brooklyn Park, Golden Valley, Richfield, and St. Anthony Village. Hennepin Healthcare has a large psychiatric program, home care, and operates a research institute, philanthropic foundation, and Hennepin EMS. The system is operated by Hennepin Healthcare System, Inc., a subsidiary corporation of Hennepin County. 

Equal Employment Opportunities: We believe equity is essential for optimal health outcomes and are committed to achieve optimal health for all by actively eliminating barriers due to racism, poverty, gender identity, and other determinants of health. We are committed to equitable care and working in an environment that celebrates, promotes, and protects diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are committed to bringing in individuals with new cultural perspectives to assist in creating a more equitable healthcare organization.

SUMMARY:

We are seeking a Laboratory Assistant to join our Specimen Processing team. This full time role will work evenings (3:00 PM – 11:30 PM) on weekdays and either evenings or mid-shift on weekends (mid-shift start times fall between 10 AM and noon). Weekend coverage includes every other weekend.

Purpose of this position: Under general supervision, performs work that involves collecting and/or processing laboratory specimens, entering data into the electronic health record (EHR) and/or the laboratory information system (LIS). Interacts and communicates with patients, their families, and members of the healthcare team by using various communication tools in a timely and professional manner

A hiring incentive ($1,000) is available for eligible external candidates (current employees, contract/temporary workers, and former employees returning to HHS within one year are ineligible).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Specimen Processing

• Assists in maintaining supplies, helping with inventory, and placing orders
• Performs patient check-in while maintaining excellent customer service
• Manages client test results according to established procedures
• Assists with training of new staff and students 
• Utilizes the electronic health record (EHR), laboratory information system (LIS), Client software (Atlas), and the email system to efficiently complete daily tasks
• Utilizes the laboratory information system (LIS) to monitor the appropriate test pending logs and communicate to the technical staff to ensure testing is not delayed
• Performs all specimen processing functions to receive and process specimens according to laboratory protocol, including, but not limited to:
  
  • specimen labeling using proper patient identification techniques
  • preparing specimens to be sent out to reference laboratories
  • process client ordering via Altas or paper document
• Performs urine collections for urine drug screens and complete proper paperwork
• Operates laboratory equipment for which they have received applicable training and supervisor approval to perform
• Other duties as assigned for which they have received applicable training and supervisor approval to perform

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED 

-OR-

• An approved equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified or certified-eligible with a nationally accredited phlebotomy association 

-OR-

• Completion of ten quarter credits of biology or chemistry college courses 

-OR-

• Six Months of experience in a clinical laboratory setting

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities:

• Customer Service skills

You've made the right choice in considering Hennepin Healthcare for your employment. We offer a wealth of opportunities for individuals who want to make an impact in our patients' lives. We are dedicated to providing Equal Employment Opportunities to both current and prospective employees. We are driven to connect talented individuals with life-changing career opportunities, enabling you to provide exceptional care without exception. Thank you for considering Hennepin Healthcare as a future employer.  

Please Note:  Offers of employment from Hennepin Healthcare are conditional and contingent upon successful clearance of all background checks and pre-employment requirements.