Join a dedicated healthcare team serving the heart of the Midwest region. This role as a Laboratory Assistant I involves performing essential pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical tasks to support laboratory operations. You will prioritize incoming specimens, ensure accuracy of physician orders, and manage specimen processing with attention to detail and timeliness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prioritize and process specimens following safety guidelines and departmental protocols.
• Review and verify orders for accuracy and specimen integrity.
• Generate and attach labels accurately, ensuring proper identification.
• Distribute specimens promptly, communicating STAT orders to technologists.
• Resolve processing conflicts and coordinate re-collections when necessary.
• Perform microbiology setups during evening or night shifts as assigned.
• Answer specimen processing inquiries and relay messages to technologists.
• Conduct quality control procedures and report any discrepancies to supervisors.
• Collect chain of custody drug screens and follow glucose tolerance testing protocols.
• Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and ensure cleanliness of work areas and equipment.
• Collect specimens using venipuncture, capillary, or arterial methods with minimal patient discomfort, adhering to proper protocols.
• Follow safety and hand hygiene practices consistently.
• Provide patient instructions for urine collection and dietary restrictions as needed.
• Foster a respectful and supportive environment for patients and coworkers.

Education: High school diploma or GED required.

Experience: Minimum of one year as a phlebotomist or laboratory assistant preferred.

Certification: No certification required; however, PBT (ASCP) certification is preferred.

Physical and Mental Requirements: Requires close mental and visual attention for short periods. Approximately 50% of the time spent standing and walking. Ability to lift or carry up to 20 lbs.

Working Conditions: Exposure to infectious materials is constant. Work environment is air-conditioned with moderate noise levels. Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings and nights, is necessary.