Orange County: Laboratory Assistant

Orange County Public Health Laboratory

Job Title: Laboratory Assistant

Department: Health Care Agency

Opening Date: 07/28/2026

Application Deadline: 08/11/2026

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Laboratory Assistant is a paraprofessional position within the OC Public Health Laboratory. This position is responsible for receiving, processing, and logging all incoming clinical and environmental specimens into the Laboratory Information System (LIS). Laboratory Assistants provide essential support to certified Public Health Microbiologists and may independently prepare for or perform procedures that do not require certification.

In addition, the Laboratory Assistant performs the following duties and responsibilities:

• Receives, prepares, and processes a wide range of clinical and environmental specimens for examination, including blood, stool, sputum, respiratory specimens, CSF, urine, water, and animal specimens

• Participates in assigned Quality Assurance activities, such as equipment maintenance and completion of logs

• Utilizes computers, laboratory information systems, and specialized software to record data

• Monitors and maintains inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents using inventory management tools

• Handles biohazardous waste and operates autoclaves for sterilization of laboratory waste

• Prepares and initiates purchasing requisitions using the County’s procurement system

• Communicates with County programs, healthcare partners, and external laboratories to clarify specimen collection, transport and storage requirements.

  
  

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS & CORE COMPETENCIES

In addition to the minimum qualifications, the ideal candidate will possess at least six (6) months of experience working in a public health laboratory OR at least one (1) year of experience in any laboratory setting. In addition, the ideal candidate will also have extensive experience in the following core competencies:

Professional and Technical Expertise | Using Technology

• Understanding of laboratory related medical and scientific terminology

• Some experience in the use and care of basic laboratory test equipment

• Some experience using a laboratory information system (LIS)

• Performing basic mathematical and algebraic calculations

• Performing a variety of keyboarding duties including typing, data entry and retrieval of information

• Proficient use of computer software programs including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

Safety Focus

• Following procedures and practices to maintain a safe work environment

• Maintaining an awareness of potential work hazards

Interpersonal Savvy | Writing and Oral Communication

• Interacting in a professional and courteous manner, in person, by telephone, and by email

• Work effectively and maintain relationships with various levels of an organization

• Ability to clearly and articulately convey information

• Writing effectively by using correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling

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