Laboratory Assistant - Forensic Toxicology

About Dynacare and the Role

At Dynacare, located in Edmonton, Alberta, every employee aids in promoting Canadian health by delivering accessible, understandable health and wellness services. We are evolving technologically and refining our workflows to enable staff to contribute meaningfully, improve professionally, and thrive in their careers. We are currently seeking a Laboratory Assistant to join our Forensic Toxicology team on site.

Primary Responsibilities

• Receive and secure specimen packages related to workplace drug testing.
• Verify all information on chain-of-custody forms meticulously.
• Identify and document any questionable specimen integrity or discrepancies.
• Apply barcodes correctly to specimens and accompanying documentation.
• Enter relevant data such as accounts and test codes accurately into systems.
• Prepare testing containers by aliquoting specified specimen volumes as per procedures.
• Transfer specimens for additional testing following protocol guidelines.
• Log and securely store original specimens in refrigeration or frozen storage.
• Dispose of specimens safely following established protocols when necessary.
• Troubleshoot issues related to forensic specimen processing.
• Clarify and retrieve missing or incomplete information.
• Conduct and ensure adherence to quality assurance checks as outlined in documented instructions.
• Report any deviations from Standard Operating Procedures to supervisors promptly.
• Propose improvements to existing laboratory procedures where applicable.
• Prepare for and support regular inspections by regulatory bodies.
• Comply with pre- and post-analytical quality assurance requirements.
• Train and support new team members in developing relevant skills.
• Ensure integrity of specimen packaging and secure accounts.
• Communicate and cooperate effectively with inspectors, and assist with legal testimonies and documentation as required.
• Maintain personal health and safety by reporting hazards and following safe work practices.
• Disinfect work areas and equipment daily.
• Safeguard confidential information strictly in line with company policies and legal requirements.
• Perform all duties in compliance with company policies and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• No mandatory certificates or degrees required.
• Previous experience in a similar laboratory or forensic environment is advantageous but not essential.

Work Environment and Expectations

• Work hours are full-time, 37.5 hours per week, typically day shifts, Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm on a rotating schedule.
• The role demands multitasking in a moderate to fast-paced setting, involving repetitive movements and extensive computer use.
• Employees must handle deadline pressures while maintaining flexibility in task management.

Compensation

The pay range is $19.75 to $23.50 per hour, determined by experience and education.

Additional Information

• Dynacare is recognized as a top employer offering a collaborative and respectful work environment.
• Benefits include health and wellness programs, RRSP matching, employee stock purchase plans, and internal mobility options.
• Accommodation requests are welcomed during the hiring process in accordance with human rights and accessibility legislation.
• AI tools may assist recruitment but will not contact candidates directly.