Schedule: Monday-Thursday 0300-1330 with weekends, holidays, and other shifts as needed.

Location: University Hospital

Salary/Hourly: Hourly Position

Job Summary:
Assists Supervisor/Manager with overseeing daily operation and workflow of assigned area, performing time card review, developing and overseeing CLA training, assisting in annual employee reviews, disciplinary action and provides support as needed. Performs all modalities of a CLA at the location assigned. May require local or out of town travel, depending on department/location.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION:
Essential Functions may vary by department and/or by location.
1. Assist Supervisor/Manager in reviewing time cards from assigned site and make appropriate corrections. Maintain records of absences, time off and tardies.
2. Oversee the daily work of CLA’S in the general operation of assigned area which may include all billing procedures, specimen collection and handling, specimen triage, data entry/accessioning, specimen processing, safety procedures, and inventory control.
3. Participate in hiring decisions, including applicant interviews.
4. Communicate regularly with employees regarding their performance and issues related to the department.
5. Communicate with department leadership team to ensure appropriate sharing of information.
6. Assist with disciplinary actions and performance reviews as needed or requested.
7. Serve as liaison with other departments or sites by maintaining communication between staff, Supervisor/Manager and other relevant personnel.
8. Be available via pager and/or cell phone during off-hours to answer staff questions or provide coverage as needed or required by department.
9. Establish and document appropriate training to ensure that all employees are trained appropriately and training records are maintained. Identify special training needs for any staff members, and assure each staff person is competent before working independently.
10. Maintain regular assessment of competency of staff, and ensure each staff person is competent to perform the duties commensurate with the job descriptions, procedures, and policies of the section.
11. Promote cost containment through correct use and maintenance of equipment and appropriate use of supplies.
12. Maintain appropriate QA documentation, determine causes and take corrective action, as able, to eliminate problems/errors, and assist in preparation of monthly QA reports.
13. Ensure that company and department policies and procedures are followed at all times
14. Effectively assess problems and handle their solutions.
15. Prepare staff schedules designed to ensure adequate coverage for all operations. In the absence of the Supervisor/Manager, may approve time off requests, census management, overtime and any changes to the posted schedule. Regularly assess workload, make appropriate adjustments in staffing and/or staffing assignments to accommodate daily needs, and assist in evaluation and justification of changes in budgeted staffing. Make changes as needed to meet patient needs and, when possible, to accommodate employee requests.
16. Demonstrates knowledge of current CAP and CLIA regulations.
17. Safeguards patients’ right to confidentiality.
18. Perform all modalities of a Clinical Lab Assistant performed at the location(s) assigned using independent judgment, self-motivation, and problem solving abilities, while demonstrating QA proficiency appropriate for the department.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Proficient oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
2. Proficient in all routine and special procedures required by department or site.
3. Strong working knowledge of and adherence to all TriCore policies and procedures.
4. Demonstrated ability to deal successfully with difficult situations and problem-solving ability.
5. Motivate staff through a positive and professional attitude.
6. Strong leadership and organizational skills.
7. Ability to train and direct staff.
8. Demonstrated ability to work independently and efficiently.
9. Work holidays, evenings, and weekends as needed or required
10. Familiarity with Windows applications and laboratory information system is a plus but not essential.
11. Valid driver's license. Good driving record. Must be insurable by lab insurance carrier if required by location.
12. Eligible to work in a health care facility as provided by the New Mexico Caregivers Criminal History Screening Act or other applicable law.

Minimum Qualifications:

MINIMUM EDUCATION:
• H.S. diploma or equivalent.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE:
Meet one of the following:
• Two (2) years' experience as a Clinical Lab Assistant at TriCore, or
• Three (3) years relevant combination of education and experience

PREFERRED:
• Supervisory, lead or charge experience strongly desired.

IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS:
Prove Immunity to Hepatitis B, or be immunized, or sign a waiver refusing Hepatitis immunization. Provide documentation of a PPD test conducted not more than 90 days prior to date of hire or have a PPD test conducted through TriCore.

IN DEPARTMENTS/LOCATIONS WITH DIRECT PATIENT CONTACT: Prove immunity or be eligible to receive rubella, rubeola and varicella immunization.

TriCore is New Mexico’s largest laboratory, employing more than 1,400 individuals who serve in a broad range of positions. We are dedicated to improving the quality of care for our communities, and also our employees. We foster a culture of integrity, are dedicated to excellence, and are looking for passionate individuals with a desire to have an impact in patient care, the core of our strategy. We offer excellent benefits including, medical, dental, vision and life insurances, 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching, PTO, and paid holidays, as well as opportunities for continuous learning, education assistance, wellness programs, career advancement, and the ability to share in our genuine commitment to the health of our communities. We offer a variety of shifts at multiple locations.