Laboratory Technician

Description

The Laboratory Technician performs routine diagnostic and analytical testing of laboratory specimens within the Health Department. This position is responsible for collecting samples, processing tests, and ensuring the accuracy of results to support provider diagnoses. The Laboratory Technician establishes a professional clinical culture and promotes ethical standards to maintain a welcoming environment that reflects the Tribe’s culture, vision, and values. Key responsibilities include performing phlebotomy, maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting quality control (QC) procedures, and ensuring strict compliance with Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and HIPAA regulations.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform venipuncture and capillary blood collection for patients of all ages with a focus on safety and comfort.
• Process and prepare laboratory specimens for transport to outside reference labs, ensuring proper labeling and documentation.
• Conduct authorized diagnostic tests and waived screenings with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency.
• Perform and document all required Quality Control (QC) testing and instrument calibrations before processing patient samples.
• Maintain detailed logs of equipment maintenance, daily temperatures, and procedural validations to ensure system integrity.
• Record and report all laboratory test results within the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system for provider review.
• Participate in Proficiency Testing (PT) programs to validate technical skills and maintain laboratory certification.
• Monitor reagent and supply inventory to prevent shortages and ensure all materials are within expiration dates.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions or test system deviations and notify the Laboratory Director of unresolved issues.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines, including Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for bloodborne pathogens and infection control protocols.
• Manage laboratory records and paperwork according to established retention policies and regulatory standards.
• Follow established safety guidelines for working in the laboratory. 
• Perform ONLY those tests that are authorized by the Laboratory Director and that are within the individual’s skill level, as determined by education, or training and technical abilities.
• Follow the laboratory’s procedures for specimen handling/processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient results. 
• Perform all laboratory tests with accuracy and efficiency. 
• Receive, process and perform Proficiency Testing samples in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Maintain accurate record of PT receipt, results and score, as directed. 
• Perform and document all QC testing, instrument and procedural calibrations, and instrument maintenance according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Record daily temperatures for equipment and laboratory areas. Troubleshoot any deviations and notify the Laboratory Director or Supervisor.
• Maintain reagent and supply inventory.
• Follow laboratory policies whenever test systems are not within the established acceptable levels of QC performance and document accordingly.
• Notify the Laboratory Director or Supervisor if a test system is out of control and troubleshooting measures have not resolved the issue.
• Report out all results of tests performed and verify and sign prior to release for charting.
• File all paperwork according to Laboratory procedures. Laboratory records are kept for two years. 
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Proficiency in phlebotomy techniques and the handling of various clinical specimens.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality control procedures and basic maintenance for diagnostic equipment.
• Ability to follow complex technical protocols with thorough attention to detail.
• Competence in utilizing Electronic Health Records (EHR) and laboratory information systems.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with patients, providers, and external lab partners.
• Strong organizational skills to manage a steady flow of patients and time-sensitive samples.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and strict patient confidentiality under HIPAA.
• Skill in identifying and resolving technical discrepancies in test results or equipment performance.
• Knowledge of safety standards regarding hazardous materials and biological specimens.
• Ability to work independently while supporting the broader clinical team.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing laboratory technologies and Health Department needs.
• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a professional and welcoming environment for all.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Minimum of one year of experience in a clinical laboratory or medical setting.
• Phlebotomy certification or formal training in laboratory technology preferred.
• Experience with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems and laboratory data entry.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods while assisting patients and processing samples.
• Manual dexterity and fine motor skills required for blood draws and handling small laboratory tools.
• Visual acuity necessary for reading small print, color-coded tests, and digital displays.
• Capacity to lift and move laboratory supplies or reagent containers weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work in an environment with potential exposure to infectious diseases and chemicals.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Successful completion of applicable tribal drug test.
• Successful completion of applicable tribal background check.
• Must pass background investigation for suitability of character identified in accordance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with no serious violations.
• Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap), Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), and Varicella vaccinations, with proof of previous vaccinations or proof of positive titer.