Clinical Lab Assistant, PRN

As a Clinical Lab Assistant at the University of Maryland Medical System, you will be responsible for receiving and accessioning patient samples into the Laboratory Information System, ensuring accurate entry of codes and information. You will handle specimens—centrifuging, aliquoting, and delivering them to specific labs as needed, while also preserving samples in appropriate storage. Additionally, you will identify and resolve any issues related to specimen integrity, perform some laboratory testing, and assist with customer inquiries, all integral to maintaining high-quality service in our labs.

To become a Clinical Lab Assistant at the University of Maryland Medical System, you need a high school diploma or an equivalent GED. While previous experience is preferred, particularly in customer service, your enthusiasm for patient care and commitment to quality under department regulations are key. A willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment will serve you well in this role.

Successful Clinical Lab Assistants at the University of Maryland Medical System exhibit excellent attention to detail and organizational skills. Strong communication abilities are crucial as you will frequently interact with patients and colleagues. Being proactive about resolving issues that arise with specimen integrity and employing good judgment in laboratory procedures are also important aspects of the job. Your ability to remain calm and composed under pressure will make you an asset to our lab teams.

The pay range for the Clinical Lab Assistant, PRN position at the University of Maryland Medical System is between $17.89 and $23.59 per hour. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with your experience. As part of our team, you're encouraged to check out the 2024-2025 UMMS Benefits Guide to discover the full range of benefits available to our employees.

At the University of Maryland Medical System, Clinical Lab Assistants have numerous opportunities for professional growth. You will receive on-the-job training and guidance from seasoned professionals in a dynamic environment. As you gain experience and proficiency in the lab, there are pathways to advance into more specialized roles or further your education in healthcare-related fields. The supportive culture encourages personal and professional development, allowing you to take your career to the next level.

When responding to this question, focus on any relevant experience you have, emphasizing your attention to detail and understanding of laboratory protocols. Share specific examples where you dealt with specimen processing or encountered challenges that you successfully resolved.

Highlight the steps you take to double-check your work, such as verifying patient information and following standard operating procedures. Discuss how you prioritize accuracy and the impact it has on patient care, showcasing your commitment to quality.

You should express the importance of addressing the issue immediately to avoid complications in testing. Describe your approach to retracing steps, communicating clearly with team members, and documenting the issue for quality assurance. Demonstrating your proactive problem-solving attitude is key.

Share techniques that help you remain calm and focused, such as prioritizing tasks, time management, and seeking team support when needed. Provide examples of previous stressful scenarios and how you managed to maintain productivity and quality.

Discuss any customer service positions you've held, emphasizing skills like communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. Connect this experience to how it will enhance your role as a Clinical Lab Assistant, especially your ability to interact positively with patients.

If you have experience, explain what systems you have used, focusing on your ability to accurately enter and manage patient data. If you are not familiar, express your eagerness to learn and any transferable skills that relate to data management.

Share your passion for healthcare and desire to contribute to patient care. Talk about the reputation of UMMS and how the opportunities for professional growth at the institution align with your career goals, showing your enthusiasm for being part of their team.

Mention any specific resources you use, such as articles, continuing education courses, or professional networking opportunities. Emphasize your commitment to lifelong learning and how staying informed benefits your role and the broader lab team.

Discuss how specimen integrity is crucial to obtaining accurate test results, impacting patient diagnosis and treatment. You could mention common issues that arise with specimen integrity and how meticulous handling can avoid these challenges, showing your knowledge of lab protocols.

Express the importance of maintaining safety and quality in the lab. Describe your approach to addressing the issue, emphasizing respect and communication, as well as your confidence in discussing procedures to ensure adherence to protocols.