Logo

Laboratory Assistant I (#RH4901)
$19.13-$23.25 Hourly / $3,315.08-$4,029.50 Monthly / $39,781.03-$48,354.09 Yearly




DEFINITION

Under immediate supervision, draws blood; performs routine laboratory assignments; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry level in the Laboratory Assistant series. Employees work under the supervision of a licensed Clinical Laboratory Technologist. Working hours may vary as employees are rotated through different shifts, each starting and ending at varying times.

TYPICAL DUTIES

  • Performs venipuncture and skin puncture for the purpose of drawing blood; labels and delivers samples.
  • Administers oral test solutions to patients.
  • Inoculates test media for cultures; slides and mixes chemical reagents and other solutions.
  • Aliquots urine and blood specimens; centrifuges blood and all types of body fluids; prepares and mails specimen samples for analysis.
  • Correctly identifies patients and explains tests to patients; insures safety and welfare of patients throughout procedures using universal precautions.
  • Assembles and prepares supplies for various laboratory procedures; and maintains laboratory inventory of supplies.
  • Assists in operation of centrifuge; processes and registers specimens using the laboratory information system logs and work sheets; may perform patient registration and other incidental clerical duties.
  • Assists in maintaining laboratory records.
  • Maintains a clean and safe work environment.
  • May assist Medical Technician.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Certification: Possession of a State of California Phlebotomy Certification as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician I.

NOTE: Any phlebotomist who has on-the-job experience as of April 19, 2003 has until April 9, 2006 to meet the California requirements of forty (40) hours lecture/practical draws and exam for California certificate prior to hire. Current employees must meet the same criteria as of April 9, 2006 and provide evidence of Certification as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician I.

KNOWLEDGE

Basic phlebotomy methods and techniques; fundamentals of physical and life sciences; universal laboratory precautions; use and care of common types of laboratory equipment; methods and materials used in a medical or science laboratory.

ABILITY

Learn basic laboratory procedures; learn methods of venipuncture and skin puncture; accurately label samples and record information; understand and follow oral and written instructions; operate computer, associated software and peripheral equipment; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; read job related material; learn general hospital procedures; maintain accurate records; maintain safe working conditions by complying to established safety policies and procedures.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Mobility-Frequent operating keyboard, standing for long periods, walking; occasional sitting for long periods, pushing/pulling, bending/squatting, driving, climbing stairs; Lifting-Frequent lifting 5 pounds or less; occasional lifting 5 to 30 pounds; Vision-Frequent overall vision, eye/hand coordination, reading/close-up work, field of vision/peripheral; occasional color perception, depth perception; Dexterity-Frequent reaching, grasping, repetitive motion, writing; occasional holding; Hearing/Talking-Constant hearing normal speech; frequent hearing on the telephone, talking in person, talking on the telephone; occasional hearing faint sounds; Emotional/Psychological-Frequent decision-making, concentration, working alone; frequent public contact, overtime/travel; occasional exposure to trauma, grief, death, exposure to hazardous materials; Special Requirements-May require working weekends/nights or shifts; working alone; Environmental Conditions-Frequent exposure to noise; occasional exposure to dirt, dust, smoke, fumes, poor ventilation, cold, heat (indoor), hazardous materials.

San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.


CLASS: RH4901; EST: 5/11/1976; REV: 3/9/2005;