Performs simple, routine laboratory procedures and other laboratory work which supports the operation of a laboratory.  

Positions assigned to this class are distinguished by the requirement for conducting simple and qualitative laboratory work under general supervision. 

Performs standard urinalysis determinations, including color, volume, specific gravity, glucose, albumin, pH, acetone, protein, calcium, diacetic acid and sediment examination;  

Assists in laboratory examinations involving serology, virology, and chemistry;  

Dissects and prepares routine biological tissues, assists with surgical procedures as applied to animals; 

Draws blood samples from patients; centrifuges blood to separate serum from corpuscles; performs white cell counts and hemoglobin estimates; types whole blood and determines Rh factor; 

Operates laboratory equipment such as electronic balances, microscopes, spectrophotometers, pH meters, autoclaves, metering pumps and centrifuges; 

Responds to inquiries concerning patient lab values, reference ranges, specimen requirements, procedures, time required for tests, and preparation of specimens to outside labs for analysis; 

Performs manual dehydration; cleans and infiltrates tissue; embeds specimens in paraffin;  

Examines stool specimens for parasites and occult blood; 

May perform inventories of chemicals, supplies and equipment; 

May perform more complex determinations as part of training for higher level position;  

Performs other work as required. 

Knowledge of:  elementary bacteriology and chemistry; routine laboratory procedures; arithmetic.   

Ability to:  use common laboratory equipment; follow oral and written instructions.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position. 

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Completion of an approved course* for laboratory assistants.  

OR 

Two years of chemical, or clinical or public health laboratory experience.   

Training in medical technology or education in college with courses in laboratory sciences may be substituted, year for year, for experience.   

*Course approved by American Society of Clinical Pathologists.