The Laboratory Assistant in the Chemistry Department of a clinical reference laboratory plays a key role in supporting laboratory operations and the overall quality of patient care. This role involves performing a variety of technical and clerical duties, assisting medical technologists, and ensuring efficient workflow within the department. The position requires a strong attention to detail, adherence to laboratory protocols, and a commitment to maintaining high standards in patient testing.

Check out this video about what it's like working at Interpath https://youtu.be/iMaXUt6s9rg 

We will provide on the job training for the committed person. This is a great stepping stone opportunity to become ASCP licensed as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. To view the American Society For Clinical Pathology's (ASCP) routes to licensing click here (page 16).

Work Schedule:  Monday - Friday, 1:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Starting Wage:  $18.00 with consideration for experience and immediate readiness to perform independently

Benefit Highlights:

• Laboratory discounts for in house testing
• Medical insurance (Big discounts for care at Pendleton Family Medicine and Pendleton Urgent Care)
• Dental (No cost for employee only coverage)
• 401(K) with discretionary employer match
• Paid Time Off

Essential Functions:

• Assists in preparing, processing, and handling patient specimens (blood, body fluids, etc.) for chemistry testing under supervision.
• Supports medical technologists in performing routine laboratory tests and operating automated laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Performs routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory instruments, documenting results and reporting any malfunctions.
• Handles and process laboratory requests and test orders in the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Maintains a clean and organized laboratory workspace, ensuring all materials, reagents, and consumables are properly stored and replenished as needed.
• Disposes of biological and chemical waste according to safety and laboratory protocols.
• Accurately labels and tracks specimens to ensure the integrity of test results.
• Performs clerical tasks including data entry, record-keeping, and generating reports for patient results.
• Assists with inventory management, including ordering and receiving laboratory supplies.
• Ensures strict adherence to laboratory safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance guidelines.
• Participates in ongoing training, continuing education, and quality improvement initiatives within the department.
• Communicates effectively with the laboratory team and other healthcare professionals to ensure the timely delivery of test results.
• Attends work regularly and on time.

About Pendleton: Small town living at its best, Pendleton, Oregon is the perfect Western community to call home.  Known for its friendly neighbors, beautiful landscapes and abundant outdoor activities. The region offers the kind of lifestyle the Northwest is famous for, and is paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and includes hiking, boating, cycling, white water rafting, hunting and fishing. You’ll find affordable living, as well as an active art scene, museums, restaurants, brew pubs, golf courses, and a regional airport that offers daily commercial flights to Portland. 

To learn more about Pendleton click here. 

• Education: High School Diploma 
• Experience: Consistent work history record and positive references. Training will be provided.
• Skills:
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols precisely.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
  • Proficient written and verbal communication skills.

Interpath Laboratory, Inc. is a family owned & operated, clinical and anatomic pathology laboratory with over 90 locations in Oregon, Washington and Idaho and are the Northwest’s leading, innovative laboratory company.  We pride ourselves on vibrant work culture where building relationships, teamwork, curiosity, and positive attitudes are at the core! From a comprehensive benefits package to an ever evolving learning and development program which fosters career growth - we truly value our employees and are very proud of the work family that we have built since 1967. 

Lab Assistant must wear appropriate protective gear (lab coat, gloves, goggles, and face shield) at all times while in the lab and are regularly exposed to infection by handling potentially infectious samples. Physical requirements, in addition to willingness & ability to wear protective gear while working, are: 

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while working at a laboratory bench.
• Manual dexterity required for handling specimens and laboratory equipment.
• Ability to lift or move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Good visual acuity and ability to distinguish color (essential for hematology tests).

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily performed in a clinical laboratory environment with potential exposure to biohazardous materials.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, including gloves, lab coats, and safety goggles.
• May require shift work, including evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on department needs.

OSHA Category
This position performs tasks that involve exposure to blood, body fluids and/or tissues. All employees performing these duties are offered the opportunity to receive the Hepatitis-B vaccination series.

EOE Veterans/Disabled: Interpath Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.