Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

*In-person only*

This position provides critical support to the Newborn Screening (NBS) Program by ensuring accurate data management, specimen processing, and laboratory operations. The incumbent is responsible for entering and verifying patient and specimen information in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to maintain data integrity, and for receiving, accessioning, and preparing dried blood spot (DBS) specimens for testing. Additional responsibilities include performing routine preventive maintenance on laboratory instruments, managing laboratory supplies and inventory, maintaining accurate records and preparing laboratory reports for healthcare providers, and assisting submitters with access to screening results via the Secure Remote Viewer system.
This role ensures timely and accurate newborn screening, supporting early detection of serious genetic and metabolic disorders and contributing directly to the health of newborns across the state. The position requires attention to detail, adherence to quality and safety standards, and the ability to work collaboratively with laboratory and program teams.

Enter and verify patient and specimen data - Prepare, enter, and verify demographic and specimen information accurately in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to ensure traceability and data integrity.
Receive, accession, and prepare newborn screening specimens - Receive and log dried blood spot (DBS) cards, verify completeness of required information, and process and punch specimens for laboratory testing following standard procedures.
Perform routine instrument maintenance - Complete daily, weekly, monthly, and as-needed preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting on laboratory equipment and record work performed according to quality standards.
Manage laboratory supplies - Receive, label, and organize incoming shipments of reagents and consumables; maintain inventory and restock laboratory areas to support daily testing operations.
Maintain records and prepare laboratory reports - Maintain accurate daily logs and documentation; sort, review, and prepare laboratory screening result reports for distribution to healthcare providers.
Provide customer support to healthcare providers - Assist hospitals, clinics, and other submitters with access to newborn screening results through the Secure Remote Viewer system and respond to basic program inquiries.
Other duties as assigned as related to the position.

Knowledge of:
- Data entry procedures, methods, and computer systems, including accurate handling of sensitive patient and laboratory information.
- Medical, microbiological, and chemical terminology relevant to newborn screening and laboratory testing.
- Principles, methods, and techniques of chemical, bacterial, and molecular laboratory analysis.
- Laboratory techniques and specialized equipment used in specimen processing and testing.
- Policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements governing laboratory operations and newborn screening programs.
- Safe handling, storage, and disposal of clinical specimens and laboratory reagents.
- Performance management and continuous quality improvement processes to support accurate and efficient laboratory operations.
Skill in:
- Data entry
- Organization
- Oral and written communication
- Operating specialized equipment
- Detail oriented with a high level of accuracy
- Management of confidential patient information
Ability to:
- Safe handling of clinical specimens
- Maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and healthcare providers
- Priority tasks and manage time efficiently
- Support a diverse multi-cultural workforce that reflects the community, promotes equal opportunity at all levels of public employment, and creates an inclusive work environment that enables all individuals to perform to their fullest potential free from discrimination

Education from an accredited college or university, including courses in biological or physical sciences that included laboratory work and laboratory experience in an appropriate field.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in a biological or physical science that included laboratory coursework in the basic sciences appropriate to the assignment.

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The State of Arizona provides an excellent comprehensive benefits package including:
Affordable medical and dental insurance plans
Paid vacation and sick time
Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).
10 paid holidays per year
Wellness program and plans
Life insurance
Short/long-term disability insurance
Defined retirement plan
Award winning Infant at Work program
Credit union membership
Transit subsidy
ADHS Student Assistance Pilot Program

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

To help you build a financially secure future, the State makes monthly contributions to finance your retirement benefit. The State will contribute to the ASRS in an amount equal to your contribution. In other words, you and the State will each pay 50% of the total cost of the benefit. New State employees have a 27-week wait period for contributions to begin.

The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by emailing nicole.zawacki@azdhs.gov. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation. DHS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All newly hired employees will be subject to E-Verify Employment Eligibility Verification.