Laboratory Operations Specialist
Caris Life Sciences
4 months ago
On-site
Phoenix, AZ
Operations
Position Summary
- The Laboratory Operations Specialist I supports the accurate and timely processing of patient samples by performing defined laboratory operations and clerical support tasks. Entry-level role focused on learning and executing established workflows and adhering to SOPs, safety requirements, and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform assigned laboratory support tasks following established SOPs and work instructions.
- Handle patient samples (blocks and slides), retrieving and filing with extreme care.
- Print, label, and triage slides based on ordered tests; prepare cases for downstream processing.
- Transport cases and materials between laboratory departments according to workflow requirements.
- Assist with slide preparation (loading/unloading stainers, printing, labeling, cover-slipping, drying, staging, and case building).
- Prepare dilutions of reagents and buffers; associate lot numbers with stainers.
- Perform routine instrument operation and basic maintenance under guidance.
- Document case activities and required information in the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
- Verify specimen labeling and documentation aligns with LIS records.
- Safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials using appropriate PPE and safety procedures.
- Escalate issues, discrepancies, or equipment concerns to senior team members/leadership.
- Participate in training and cross-training to build proficiency across departments.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to follow detailed procedures in a regulated environment.
- Successful completion of pre-employment requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior exposure to laboratory, medical, or regulated operational environments.
Skills/Abilities (Physical Demands)
- Use a computer and office equipment (copiers, fax machines, PDF scanners).
- Visual acuity for fine detail; pass a visual color discrimination test.
- Manual dexterity for laboratory equipment and sterile techniques as required.
- Ability to sit/stand for long periods; perform repetitive motion.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
- May be exposed to lab chemicals/fumes (including carcinogenic agents), bio-hazardous materials, extreme temperatures, and high noise levels; may handle blood-borne pathogens.
Training
- Job-specific, safety, and compliance training assigned based on job functions.
Other / Scheduling
- May require some evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
Conditions of Employment
- Complete pre-employment process including criminal background check, drug screening, credit check (for certain positions), and reference verification.
- The Laboratory Operations Specialist I supports the accurate and timely processing of patient samples by performing defined laboratory operations and clerical support tasks. Entry-level role focused on learning and executing established workflows and adhering to SOPs, safety requirements, and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform assigned laboratory support tasks following established SOPs and work instructions.
- Handle patient samples (blocks and slides), retrieving and filing with extreme care.
- Print, label, and triage slides based on ordered tests; prepare cases for downstream processing.
- Transport cases and materials between laboratory departments according to workflow requirements.
- Assist with slide preparation (loading/unloading stainers, printing, labeling, cover-slipping, drying, staging, and case building).
- Prepare dilutions of reagents and buffers; associate lot numbers with stainers.
- Perform routine instrument operation and basic maintenance under guidance.
- Document case activities and required information in the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
- Verify specimen labeling and documentation aligns with LIS records.
- Safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials using appropriate PPE and safety procedures.
- Escalate issues, discrepancies, or equipment concerns to senior team members/leadership.
- Participate in training and cross-training to build proficiency across departments.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to follow detailed procedures in a regulated environment.
- Successful completion of pre-employment requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior exposure to laboratory, medical, or regulated operational environments.
Skills/Abilities (Physical Demands)
- Use a computer and office equipment (copiers, fax machines, PDF scanners).
- Visual acuity for fine detail; pass a visual color discrimination test.
- Manual dexterity for laboratory equipment and sterile techniques as required.
- Ability to sit/stand for long periods; perform repetitive motion.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
- May be exposed to lab chemicals/fumes (including carcinogenic agents), bio-hazardous materials, extreme temperatures, and high noise levels; may handle blood-borne pathogens.
Training
- Job-specific, safety, and compliance training assigned based on job functions.
Other / Scheduling
- May require some evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
Conditions of Employment
- Complete pre-employment process including criminal background check, drug screening, credit check (for certain positions), and reference verification.