The Automation Operator position reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Medicine, adheres to the organization鈥檚 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.