Nova Scotia Health and IWK Health·Mira Road, Nova Scotia
The Medical Laboratory Assistant supports pathology and laboratory medicine by performing pre and post-analytical tasks such as specimen procurement, processing, and data entry. They are also responsible for maintaining laboratory supplies, ensuring accurate patient identification, and adhering to strict safety and infection control protocols.
31-Aug-26About the Opportunity Under the direction of Management (or designate), the Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) works in collaboration with and supports all members of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PLM) by performing various functions relating to the pre and post-analytical phases of testing. These functions can include: specimen procurement/receipt/processing, data entry, media/reagent/smear preparation, sterilization, clerical duties, and loading specimens on an analyzer. Additional responsibilities may include: supply management, troubleshooting, and customer service activities. Positive patient identification and accurate specimen handling are essential to the job. Duties vary based on the operational requirements of the laboratory site/division/area/community in which the MLA is employed. The MLA may be required to work rotating shifts, weekends, and/or holidays, work off-site including long term care (LTC) facilities, communities or private homes dependent on the need. The MLA may also be required to interact with various stakeholders and clients. Incumbents must adhere to all applicable NSH/PLM policies and procedures. Strict adherence to safety and infection prevention and control procedures is required. MLAs must be able to work independently, use good judgment, maintain a professional appearance (adhering to dress code policy) and demonstrate excellent customer service.About You We would love to hear from you if you have the following:
Recognized Medical Laboratory Assistant Program or equivalent (as determined by NSRMLS) Candidates must have successfully completed the Medical Laboratory Assistant examinations of the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS)/Canadian Alliance of Medical Laboratory Professional Regulators (CAMPLR) and have current registration with CSMLS.
Licensure with Nova Scotia Regulator of Medical Laboratory Sciences (NSRMLS) Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Basic understanding of medical terminology.
Strong attention to detail Manual dexterity to handle sharp instruments and small objects.
Must be able to perform procedures with a high degree of accuracy Ability to accurately number/label specimens and file slides/requisitions Ability to adapt to updates/changes in operating procedures Basic computer skills, Meditech experience is preferred Access to reliable transportation as travel may be required Competencies in other languages an asset, French preferred
Please ensure your resume is up to date and includes all relevant education, experience, training, and certifications.Hours
Permanent part-time position; 52.5 hours biweekly
Compensation and Benefits $25.64 - $30.61 Hourly Successful candidates may be eligible for our benefits package which includes health, dental, travel, long-term disability, and life insurance coverage as well as a defined benefit pension plan.
What You'll Love About Nova Scotia Health Nova Scotia Health is more than the province's largest provider of health services; we're a team driven by excellence in health, healing and learning.
Across hospitals, health centres and community programs, our people deliver innovative, high-quality care that impacts lives across Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada.
From vibrant city life to scenic coastal communities, Nova Scotia offers a lifestyle as rewarding as the work itself.
At Nova Scotia Health, you'll find meaningful career opportunities, supportive teams and the work-life balance to enjoy everything our beautiful province has to offer.
Join us and discover why so many people are choosing to call Nova Scotia home.
Once You've Applied Thank you for your interest in this position.
Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. This is a Healthcare bargaining unit position.
Preference is given to bargaining unit employees for unionized positions.
Nova Scotia Health is committed to being a workforce that is free of discrimination, values diversity, and is representative, at all job levels, of the people we serve.
We encourage all qualified applicants who self-identify as Indigenous, Black/African Nova Scotian, Persons of Colour, Foreign Nationals/Newcomers, Persons with Disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ to apply and self-identify.
Candidates must hold a recognized Medical Laboratory Assistant program certificate and possess current registration with the CSMLS and NSRMLS. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a clinical environment are essential.
Market context
Medical Laboratory Assistant roles in Nova Scotia are typically tied to ongoing hospital and diagnostic lab needs, so demand is often steady rather than seasonal. Competition can be stronger for candidates who already hold recognized MLA training, current CSMLS and NSRMLS registration, and can handle rotating shifts with careful attention to detail. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your credentials and shift availability before applying.