Service Year Option - Clinical Lab Assistant

Job Summary

The Clinical Lab Assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing specimens, assisting with testing processes, and ensuring accurate and timely results. This role plays a key part in patient care by helping ensure that specimens are handled correctly and laboratory processes run efficiently.

This position combines technical tasks, specimen processing, and administrative responsibilities, making it a strong entry point into laboratory careers.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required
• Maryland resident
• Individuals eligible for the Maryland Service Year Program (generally ages 18–24)
• Experience:
• Previous laboratory or healthcare experience preferred (2 years in a related field ideal)
• Licensure/Certification: None required
• Skills & Abilities:
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to follow clinical protocols and procedures
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to multitask and prioritize work
• Basic computer and data entry skills
• Knowledge of medical terminology preferred

• What You’ll Do
• Prepare specimens for testing, including centrifugation, aliquoting, labeling, and storage
• Assist technical staff with loading and unloading specimens from analyzers
• Perform basic diagnostic testing and support laboratory workflows
• Ensure specimens are handled, stored, and processed according to protocols
• Maintain accurate records and assist with reporting results
• Monitor and manage laboratory inventory and supplies
• Collect and prepare biohazardous waste for proper disposal
• Follow all safety, infection control, and regulatory standards
• Communicate with team members to support timely and accurate results

• What the Job is Really Like
• This role requires high attention to detail—accuracy directly impacts patient results
• You’ll spend much of your time working with specimens and laboratory equipment, often performing repetitive but critical tasks
• The work requires focus and consistency, especially when processing multiple samples at once
• You’ll often work independently, using judgment to prioritize tasks and follow procedures
• The pace can vary, but there are busy periods where turnaround time is critical
• You’ll be part of a team that relies on each other to keep lab operations running smoothly
• The role includes both technical tasks and clerical responsibilities, requiring strong organization
• You must be comfortable working in a clinical environment with biohazard materials

• Work Environment & Demands
• Laboratory setting with exposure to clinical specimens and biohazard materials
• Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout the lab (see physical demands on page 3)
• Requires fine motor skills and strong hand-eye coordination for specimen handling
• High level of concentration and sustained attention to detail required
• Fast-paced environment with multiple tasks and priorities
• Combination of independent work and team collaboration

• What Success Looks Like
• Specimens are processed accurately, safely, and on time
• Laboratory protocols and safety standards are consistently followed
• Results and documentation are accurate and reliable
• Inventory and supplies are well-managed
• You demonstrate independence, reliability, and attention to detail
• You contribute to efficient lab operations and timely patient results

Caring for Our Team We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.

Happy to Help

At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.