Lab Assistant - Laboratory Services

The Laboratory Assistant supports laboratory operations by ensuring accurate receipt, labeling, processing, transport, and storage of specimens for testing. Working under general supervision, this role performs clerical, data entry, and customer service functions while coordinating with registration, nursing, physicians, and laboratory staff to ensure proper specimen collection and timely processing. The Laboratory Assistant adheres to safety, regulatory, and quality standards (e.g., CAP readiness), applies independent judgment in resolving issues, and contributes to efficient laboratory workflow and patient care. Responsible for performing job duties in accordance with the mission, vision and values of Tampa General Hospital.

What you will do

• Receive, label, process, and route laboratory specimens accurately and in a timely manner.
• Coordinate specimen collection and delivery with registration staff, physician offices, and clinical teams.
• Verify patient and specimen information to ensure accuracy and compliance with laboratory requirements.
• Perform data entry, result inquiry, error correction, and documentation within laboratory information systems.
• Handle telephone calls and provide customer service support to patients, physicians, and healthcare staff.
• Maintain proper storage, tracking, and transport of specimens to internal and external laboratories.
• Assist with clerical and administrative duties, including filing, recordkeeping, and report generation.
• Support quality assurance and compliance activities, including maintaining CAP readiness and following safety protocols.
• Collaborate with laboratory personnel, nursing, and providers to resolve specimen issues and ensure timely testing.
• Adhere to all organizational policies, infection control guidelines, and safety standards while promoting a professional and patient-centered environment.

Education Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED

Experience Qualifications

• 1-2 months of on-the-job training and orientation is provided.

Skills and Abilities

• Understanding of proper specimen collection requirements, labeling, transport, and storage to ensure testing accuracy and integrity.
• Skill in entering, retrieving, and verifying data in laboratory systems, including handling inquiries, corrections, and documentation.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety, infection control, and quality standards, including CAP readiness and biohazard handling procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, nurses, and staff while providing professional, courteous service.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet turnaround expectations in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to identify and resolve specimen or processing issues while maintaining accuracy and quality standards.