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Prep Lab Assistant

Overview

Prep Lab Assistant - Erie, PA - Monday - Friday 3:30pm-12:00am (Rotational Weekends)

Position provides a wide variety of support for assigned lab department. 

Pay Range: Minimum of $17.20+ per hour; Employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.

 

Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.

 

Benefits Information:We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects – physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:

  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Responsibilities

  • Picks up samples from accessioning and sorts samples into appropriate racks.  
  • Answers phone and directs calls appropriately  
  • Unpacks and stores reagents and supplies  
  • Inventories and orders warehouse supply items  
  • Sorts samples and distributes them to the appropriate setup hood. Manages specimen library within established time frames.  
  • Decontaminates work areas as designated.  
  • Performs waived tests under supervision  
  • Seeks specimens as needed  
  • Maintains work area in clean and organized condition.  
  • Follows all PPE requirements.  
  • Maintains designated laboratory equipment.  
  • Performs QA/QC duties as assigned (eyewash checks, temperature readings etc...)  
  • Loads urines onto Atlas for urinalysis.  
  • Resolves unverified pending list for occult bloods and urinalysis.  
  • Inoculates appropriate microbiology media based on site given.  
  • Prepares samples for processing i.e. tissue grinders, centrifuging.  
  • Credits unacceptable / duplicate test requests, knows what sites and specimens are acceptable for testing.  
  • Places anaerobic culture plates in appropriate bags. 
  • Loads blood bottles into Bactec machine.  
  • Prints and separates worksheets.  
  • Puts culture plates in incubators. 
  • Prepares concentrates and trichrome slides for ova and parasites. 
  • Prepares samples for DNA probes.  
  • Prepares malaria smears.  
  • Prepares tubes for Giardia antigens and cryptosporidium EIA.  
  • Performs and finalizes occult blood results.  
  • Uses various laboratory computer systems for labeling, inquiry, crediting, and resulting as needed. 28. Disposes of biohazardous and chemical waste.  
  • Completes PAL forms appropriately.  
  • Provides input regarding procedures, training manual, and checklists.  
  • Assists with department quality and process improvement projects. 
  • Sets up media and supplies for assigned work area.  
  • Completes training checklists and competency testing appropriately. 
  • Discards specimens weekly.  
  • All other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Work Experience:  

N/A

Preferred Work Experience:  

N/A

Physical and Mental Requirements:  

Ability to stand for long periods of time 

Knowledge:  

N/A

Skills:  

  • Accurate worker, detail-oriented 
  • Flexible with respect to department scheduling needs.  
  • Flexible to work in other departments as needed. 

EDUCATION High School Diploma or Equivalent(Required)LICENSECERTIFICATIONS

 

Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.

 

While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.

 

2025-85415

EEO

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets

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What You Should Know About Prep Lab Assistant, Quest Diagnostics

As a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics in Erie, PA, you have the opportunity to dive into an exciting and fulfilling environment where your contributions truly matter. This role, which typically runs Monday through Friday from 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM, with occasional rotational weekends, offers you a chance to be part of a team that supports vital lab operations. Your day will be anything but mundane, as you'll handle everything from sorting samples and managing a specimen library to performing QA/QC duties and decontaminating work areas. With a competitive pay starting at $17.20 per hour, along with additional shift differentials for the second and third shifts, you’re set to not just earn but thrive in an environment that genuinely cares about your well-being. Plus, being part of Quest Diagnostics means you get access to top-notch benefits—including medical, dental, and vision from day one—along with opportunities for career advancement and professional development. We're passionate about your growth and happiness, and we want to see you succeed in every aspect. If you’re detail-oriented, flexible, and ready to make a difference, we invite you to join our family and help us care for the health of others!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Prep Lab Assistant Role at Quest Diagnostics
What are the main responsibilities of a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics?

A Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics plays a crucial role in supporting laboratory operations. Key responsibilities include picking up and sorting samples, unpacking and storing reagents, managing the specimen library within designated time frames, performing waived tests under supervision, and maintaining a clean and organized work area. You will also be involved in quality assurance procedures, such as performing temperature checks and maintaining designated lab equipment.

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What qualifications do I need to become a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics?

To qualify for the Prep Lab Assistant position at Quest Diagnostics, you need a high school diploma or equivalent. While preferred work experience is not mandatory, having a detail-oriented approach and the ability to work flexibly in a fast-paced environment is essential. Candidates should also be comfortable standing for long periods and ready to assist in various lab tasks as needed.

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What is the shift schedule for a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics?

The typical schedule for a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics in Erie runs from Monday to Friday, 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM, with some rotational weekends. It’s important to be flexible with scheduling to accommodate the operational needs of the department, which adds variety to your work week.

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What kind of benefits can I expect as a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics?

As a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics, you can look forward to a comprehensive range of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage from day one, an annual health assessment program, vacation and holiday pay, financial coaching, and educational assistance. Additionally, you may also be eligible for a 401(k) plan with company matching and performance-based bonuses.

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Is there room for career advancement for a Prep Lab Assistant at Quest Diagnostics?

Absolutely! Quest Diagnostics encourages career advancement and offers various opportunities for growth within the organization. As a Prep Lab Assistant, you will be supported in your professional development through training programs and mentorship, which can lead to more advanced roles in laboratory management and technical positions.

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Common Interview Questions for Prep Lab Assistant
Can you describe your experience with laboratory safety protocols?

In answering this question, emphasize your understanding of safety procedures such as proper PPE usage, handling biohazard materials, and maintaining cleanliness in the lab. Discuss any prior lab experiences, detailing how you ensured compliance with safety regulations.

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How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple assignments at once?

Highlight your organizational skills here. Explain your strategy for prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance, mentioning any tools or methods you use, such as to-do lists or scheduling software, to manage your workload effectively.

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What steps do you take to ensure accurate sample processing?

Describe a systematic approach to sample processing, emphasizing attention to detail, double-checking work, and adherence to protocols. You might mention previous experiences where accuracy was key to lab results and how you ensured process integrity.

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How do you handle stress or fast-paced work environments?

In your response, share specific strategies for managing stress, such as remaining organized, focusing on breathing techniques, or making use of breaks to recharge. Also, provide examples of your ability to maintain composure and efficiency under pressure.

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What experience do you have with laboratory equipment?

Discuss any familiarity you have with specific lab equipment, listing items like centrifuges, incubators, or analyzers. Mention your ability to operate them safely and effectively, as well as any calibration or maintenance experience.

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Describe a time when you made a mistake in the lab. How did you handle it?

Be honest and showcase accountability in your answer. Detail the mistake, how you recognized it, and the steps you took to rectify it and prevent similar issues in the future. This shows your commitment to learning and improvement.

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What motivates you to work in a lab environment?

Share your passion for science and laboratory work. Talk about what draws you to this field—perhaps a desire to contribute to healthcare, the excitement of discovery, or the satisfaction of ensuring quality results.

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How do you ensure effective communication with team members?

Discuss the importance of clear communication in a lab setting. Highlight your willingness to ask questions, share findings, and provide updates to teammates. Mention any specific tools or methods you use to enhance collaboration.

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How do you stay current with laboratory practices and advancements?

Explain your commitment to lifelong learning. This could include attending workshops, reading relevant articles, or participating in webinars. Show enthusiasm for keeping abreast of changes in technology and best practices in laboratory work.

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What qualities do you think are essential for a successful Prep Lab Assistant?

Here, focus on traits like attention to detail, adaptability, teamwork, and strong organizational skills. You can also relate these qualities to your personal experiences, showing how you embody them in your work.

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We are on a continuous journey of discovery and development. It’s this attitude that has made us an industry leader and the #1 Diagnostic Lab in the US. Quest annually serves one in three American adults and half the physicians and hospitals in th...

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April 20, 2025

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