Lab Technician/EIA Technician

Description:

JOB OVERVIEW

The EIA Technician is responsible for the use and maintenance of the enzyme immunoassay (EIA) instruments including calibrations, quality controls, patient specimens, data analysis, and documentation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Prepare and run daily Calibrations, Pre-QCs, and Post-QCs
• Interpret data from Calibrations, Pre-QCs, and Post-QCs to ensure that appropriate values are produced. Recalibrate and rerun QCs as needed
• Prepare urine specimens for processing using established standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Accurately aliquot specimens into labeled test tubes using single-channel, variable-volume pipettes
• Analyze data from specimens to ensure complete testing and to identify specimens needing reruns
• Flag specimens that do not meet specimen validity requirements
• Enter data into the laboratory information system (LIS)
• Properly centrifuge test tubes as needed for reruns
• Learn the purpose and theory of each component of enzyme immunoassay testing
• Perform required daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance following the established maintenance schedule
• Recognize and help troubleshoot issues with the enzyme immunoassay instruments
• Refill on-board reagents as needed
• Receive and put away ordered supplies
• Maintain inventory for all EIA supplies including (but not limited to) receipt and filing of ordered supplies; dispose of packaging
• Document new and opened reagents, calibrators, and quality controls
• Document prepared solutions appropriately
• Print and file daily printouts for Calibrations, Pre-QCs, and Post-QCs, making appropriate notations
• Document daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance performed
• Document EIA temperatures for refrigerated compartments and the incubation chamber
• Dispose of specimens that have reached their retention date
• Clean and put away laboratory glassware and other items as needed
• Wipe down all work surfaces daily using an appropriate cleaner
• Change temperature recording charts on refrigerator and freezer weekly and monthly as required
• Document room temperature and humidity levels as well as gas levels
• Refill supplies in bins on work stations
• Receive and put away incoming supplies; dispose of packaging
• Clean storage bins and carts as needed
• Ensure AMR and Instrument Comparability reports are completed accordingly
• Contact support personnel timely and effectively when issues outside of the laboratory correction arise
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Regular and prompt attendance
• Ability to perform work following established standard operating procedures and ensuring the highest quality standards are maintained
• Proficient in ability to operate laboratory instrumentation and computers with scientific software applications
• Ability to listen, learn, and promote accountability and responsibility related to all EIA processes
• Must be able to achieve superior results when work is reviewed in terms of quality, timeliness, and adherence to established methods, standards, and policies
• Must be able and willing to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) with appropriate national certification; or Bachelor of Science in Biology, Chemistry, or a related field
• Preference for candidates with familiarity with enzyme immunoassay, chemistry analyzers, or ELISA
• Preference for candidates with experience working with bodily fluids, such as urine and oral fluid

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
• Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines
• Ability to function in a team environment and promote collaboration
• Must be able to work under limited supervision where the work assignments are subject to established procedures, techniques, and well-defined policies
• Skill with completing assignments accurately, and with attention to detail

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work will be performed in a laboratory environment and exposes the incumbent to normal laboratory hazards and chemicals, including biohazard materials
• Work in varying degrees of temperature (heated or air conditioned)
• Position requires sitting, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

DIRECT REPORTS

• None