Automation Operator Lab-Full-time Nights

The salary range for this position is $19.50 - $27.30 (Hourly Rate)

Placement within the salary range is dependent on several factors such as relevant work experience and internal equity. For positions represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range is guided by the rules outlined in the collective bargaining agreement.

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section located at jobs.nm.org/benefits to learn more.

Northwestern Medicine is powered by a community of colleagues who are purpose-driven and committed to our mission to deliver world-class care. Here, you'll work alongside some of the best clinical talent in the nation leading the way in medical innovation and breakthrough research with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

We recognize where you've been, and we support where you're headed. We celebrate diverse perspectives and experiences, which fuel our commitment to equity and culture of service.

Grow your career with comprehensive training and development opportunities, mentorship programs, educational support and student loan repayment.

Create the life you envision for yourself with flexible work options, a Reimbursable Well-Being Fund and a Total Rewards package that support your physical, mental, emotional, and financial well-being.

Make a difference through volunteer opportunities we offer in local communities and drive inclusive change through our workforce-led resource groups.

From discovery to delivery, come help us shape the future of medicine.

Description

The Automation Operator position reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Medicine, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

The Automation Operator is responsible for the efficient operation of the clinical automation through all 3 phases of patient testing within the core laboratory, as well as other duties as assigned.  Perform accurate and timely loading of the automation instrument, including correct specimen requirements and knowledge of specimens not acceptable for instrumentation.  Responsible for troubleshooting of the automation system as well as proper notification of the appropriate staff if additional assistance is required. Responsible for all daily, weekly, monthly, and as needed maintenance. The position requires a thorough understanding of laboratory specimens, laboratory workflows, department workflows, as well as the HIS/LIS computer systems.

Responsibilities:

• Perform accurate and timely specimen loading of the automation instruments, including correct specimen requirements, knowledge of specimens not acceptable for instrumentation, and proper rack choice based on sample type, size, and regard for current analyzer context.
• Respond to and address automation alarms as they occur to ensure as much uninterrupted specimen processing as possible.  
• Perform troubleshooting and error recovery on all automation hardware modules, software modules, and auxiliary equipment such as air compressors.
• Communicate with the department and supervisors regarding automation and instrument availability/operating status.
• Notify supervisors of ongoing issues affecting automation uptime or impacting turnaround times of specimen processing on automation.
• Responsible for all assigned daily, weekly, monthly maintenance, and instrumentation shutdowns as required for proper instrument upkeep as well as associated documentation of such on both automation instruments.
• Responsible for changing racks, stocking consumable supplies, and emptying waste of the automation instrument.
• Responsible for accurate processing of samples at instrument outlets as needed to include manual archiving, re-mapping, delivery to other departments, and discarding completed specimens as needed.
• Constant specimen flow analysis, including but not limited to recognition of delays via software tools and or physical observation.
• Effectively communicate technical issues and troubleshooting processes via problem reports and calls to vendor for issue escalation and or service.
• Cultivate working relationship with automation vendor to decrease issue diagnose and service recovery times.
• Collaborates with leadership regarding process improvement and assists with implementation of changes and improvements.
• Proficient use of clinical automation control software for operations monitoring as well as issue diagnosis and specimen tracking.
• Triaging of module issues and alarms as necessary while maintaining specimen flow and workarounds.
• Organized multi-tasking and attention to detail is critical. Must be able to follow instructions while performing independent problem solving.
• Creates a positive learning environment when instructing new employees. Presents clear and concise information at an appropriate pace that is suitable for learning.
• Basic to intermediate knowledge of computers (Windows, Task Manager, ect.)
• Proficient at reading and utilizing technical documentation and data such as operation instructions, sensor diagrams, and computer logs.
• Understanding of medical terminology, laboratory specimens, and the HIS/LIS computer systems.
• Maintains a professional attitude.
• Other duties assigned by supervisor and or lab leadership.

Qualifications

Required:

• High School graduate
• Upon hire must provide hard copy of high school diploma and/or transcripts. Must provide proof of Education as stated in the CLIA guidelines.

Preferred:

• At least 3 years of laboratory experience.
• 1-year NM lab experience
• Associate or bachelor’s degree with in a medical or biomedical field

Equal Opportunity

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

 

If we offer you a job, we will perform a background check that includes a review of any criminal convictions. A conviction does not disqualify you from employment at Northwestern Medicine. We consider this on a case-by-case basis and follow all state and federal guidelines.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.