This is technical work in performance of a variety of standardized tests and laboratory procedures in a county clinical or other laboratory.

Laboratory Technicians perform a variety of tests and exacting laboratory procedures requiring considerable technical training in a clinical, environmental resource or other laboratory. Employees in a clinical laboratory may be assigned to one or more sections of a large laboratory or an emergency room, performing work not requiring the professional knowledges and skills of a Medical Technologist. Emphasis of the work is on completion of a large volume of laboratory tests with accuracy and speed utilizing a variety of specialized equipment and apparatus. Supervision is received from a technical or professional superior who spot checks completed work for technical quality and adherence to established procedures.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Assists in performing chemical tests on air samples; completes laboratory analyses for atmospheric concentrations of pollutants; performs gravimetric determinations of soluble and insoluble particulate matter in dustfall samples; takes photometer readings for coefficient of haze sampling results; computes, records and tabulates data from results of atmospheric analyses.

Performs various hematological procedures such as hematocrits, platelet counts, electrophoresis tests, and reticulocyte counts; uses specialized equipment such as electronic counters, densitometer and automatic coagulation instruments; refers specimens with pathological indications to supervisor for further analysis.

Processes and logs specimens for analysis; completes various chemistry tests such as sodium, chloride and amylase using flame photometer, chloridometer and osmometer under supervision of a technologist; prepares specimens for referral procedures using established format.

Prepares smears and cultures for subsequent microbiological identification; initiates germ tube tests, serological febrile aggultination tests and procedures for identification of enteric pathogens.

Draws blood and supervises blood collection by a group of laboratory personnel as assigned; supervises the duties of other subordinate laboratory personnel and assists them as

required.

Maintains files on supplies; prepares special glassware; maintains cleanliness and decontamination of work area; prepares nonstandard reagents under supervision of a technologist.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Considerable knowledge of the basic principles of chemistry, microbiology and hematology as related to standardized laboratory tests and procedures in area of assignment.

Considerable knowledge of principles, methods and materials used in various standardized clinical laboratory tests.

Ability to perform tests and processes according to prescribed procedures in area of assignment.

Ability to make accurate observations and reports of results.

Ability to perform required processes with necessary speed.

Skill in laboratory manipulative techniques including use of microscopes and specialized automatic equipment.

REV 10-77