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 laboratory tasks with precision and care.

General Summary

The Laboratory Assistant I prioritizes specimen processing according to safety guidelines, ensuring accuracy and timely distribution. Responsibilities include reviewing orders, generating and attaching labels, and communicating with technologists regarding urgent or STAT orders. The role requires resolving processing conflicts, coordinating re-collections, and maintaining quality control standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Process incoming specimens with attention to detail and safety protocols.
• Perform microbiology setups during second or third shifts as assigned.
• Answer specimen processing inquiries and relay messages effectively.
• Maintain quality control and notify supervisors of any discrepancies.
• Collect chain of custody drug screens and follow glucose tolerance testing protocols.
• Manage inventory of laboratory supplies and coordinate reordering.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of work and storage areas.
• Collect specimens using venipuncture, capillary puncture, or arterial collections with minimal patient discomfort.
• Adhere to patient identification protocols and specimen collection guidelines, including pediatric volume limitations.
• Ensure blood culture contamination rates remain below 3%.
• Follow safety practices and hand hygiene protocols consistently.
• Provide clear instructions to patients regarding urine collection and dietary restrictions.
• Foster a respectful and dignified environment for patients and coworkers.

Education

High school diploma or GED is required.

Experience

At least one year of experience as a phlebotomist or laboratory assistant is required.

Certification/License

Certification is not mandatory, but PBT (ASCP) certification is preferred.

Mental/Physical Requirements

Requires close mental and visual attention for short periods. Approximately 50% of the time is spent standing and walking throughout the department and facility. Must be able to lift or carry up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions

Exposure to infectious materials is constant. Work environment is air-conditioned with moderate noise levels. Flexibility to work any shift as needed.