Automation Operator Lab Part Time Evenings

Company Description

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

Job 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

Additional Information

Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) 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.

Background Check

Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check.  Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. 

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.

Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.