Laboratory Support Technician (LST)

Lab Support Technicians and Specimen Processing staff are responsible for the early stages of laboratory testing. Their work focuses on receiving, labeling, and preparing biological specimens such as blood or urine for analysis. They ensure that each sample is properly identified and routed to the correct department, often performing tasks like centrifuging and aliquoting. These roles require attention to detail, familiarity with lab systems, and good organizational skills. Typically, only a high school diploma and on-the-job training or a short certification are needed. These roles are essential for maintaining workflow and accuracy in busy hospital or reference labs.

• Prepare and assess specimens; build worklists, aliquot, and load onto instruments as needed.
• Perform slide prep and microbiology planting; follow specimen acceptability protocols.
• Maintain instruments and record temps; restock and organize supplies for all storage types.
• Replenish reagents, perform QA/QC, assist with specimen/slide storage and pending lists.
• Clean work areas, eyewashes, showers, and glassware; sort and dispose of lab waste properly.
• Transport specimens and deliver supplies; ensure off-site duties are completed efficiently.
• Answer calls, prep and deliver test-ready specimens; demonstrate professionalism and courtesy.

• High School diploma or equivalent, and at least 2 yrs experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) required in a clinical lab, OR Associate degree (with biology and chemistry courses) and at least 1yr of experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) in a clinical lab, Phlebotomy or Medical Assistant certification and 1 yr of experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) in a clinical lab, Successful completion of a 50 wk U.S. military medical laboratory training course, ORB.S. degree from an accredited institution with a major in a biological or clinical laboratory science OR Currently enrolled in a MLS (Medical Laboratory Scientist) or equivalent training program, with 3 yrs college credits required.