Medical Laboratory Associate
Responsible for performing a variety of non-technical and technical tasks related to laboratory support and testing. Assists in the preparation of materials and operations for an assigned laboratory facility. The primary focus of this role is to conduct tests (diagnostic, etc.), oversee laboratory procedures, and analyze results of laboratory experiments.
Typical Functions
Typical functions are listed within the level descriptors below and are examples of work performed by positions in the level and are not intended to be all-inclusive. Some duties may overlap levels; however, the preponderance of the work will be assessed when assigning positions to the specific levels.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSAs)
Listed below are the minimum requirements for this role. KSAs will become more advanced as the level increases and will vary depending on the requirements of the position.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety, techniques, and terminology.
- Knowledge of how to properly use and maintain laboratory equipment.
- Knowledge of chemical and physical properties of materials or substances.
- Knowledge of appropriate specimen handling techniques.
- Computer skills.
- Communication skills.
- Ability to troubleshoot technical problems.
- Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team.
Level Descriptions
Medical Laboratory Associate 1
- Supports laboratory functions under close supervision by performing various housekeeping and routine technical duties in a laboratory environment.
- Sanitizes and autoclaves laboratory equipment.
- Restocks supplies.
- Performs preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment.
- Prepares solutions, media, and reagents, and disposes of contaminated materials under the direction of supervisor and protocol.
- Receives and processes specimens for analysis and prepares tissues and slides.
- Prepares specimens for shipment/delivery.
- Processes routine assays.
- Provides work direction to students.
Education/Experience
Typically requires a high school diploma and one year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Licenses/Certifications
Applicable certification may be required.
Market Range: MR04
Medical Laboratory Associate 2
- Performs a wide variety of specialized and complex laboratory and research procedures.
- Performs general laboratory tests; evaluates, interprets, and reports results.
- Collects and prepares specimens and samples for more complex analysis.
- Prepares and verifies quality of solutions, media, reagents, and samples.
- Instructs others on collection techniques.
- Maintains quality control.
- Calibrates, maintains, and troubleshoots laboratory instruments.
- Determines and prioritizes the level of importance of laboratory tasks.
- Works under general supervision.
- Trains and provides work direction to others.
Education/Experience
Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Licenses/Certifications
Applicable certification may be required.
Market Range: MR05
Medical Laboratory Associate 3
- Performs a variety of specialized laboratory tests and analyses under minimal supervision by applying standard techniques and analytical principles.
- Analyzes results of tests and procedures and prepares reports.
- Considerable judgment is required in the approach of techniques used to solve problems.
- Contributes to the development and implementation of new laboratory procedures and SOPs.
- Participates in research projects and provides consultation to students and medical and research professionals.
- Participates in laboratory coordination/management functions to assist supervisor.
- Trains and provides work direction to others.
Education/Experience
Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and three years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Licenses/Certifications
Applicable certification may be required.
Market Range: MR06
Effective Date: January 4, 2021
