Join a dedicated healthcare team in the heart of the Midwest region, where your role as a Laboratory Assistant I is vital to supporting life-saving diagnostics. This position involves performing a variety of pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical laboratory tasks with precision and care.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prioritize and process incoming specimens following strict safety protocols.
• Review and verify physician orders and specimen integrity.
• Generate and accurately label specimen samples, ensuring proper identification.
• Distribute specimens promptly, communicating urgent orders to technologists to meet or exceed turnaround times.
• Resolve order conflicts and coordinate specimen recollection when necessary.
• Perform microbiology setups during second or third shifts as assigned.
• Handle specimen processing inquiries and relay messages effectively.
• Conduct quality control checks and report any discrepancies to supervisors.
• Collect chain of custody drug screens and follow glucose tolerance testing protocols.
• Manage inventory of reference laboratory supplies and maintain organized workstations.
• Maintain cleanliness of equipment, work areas, and patient contact zones.
• Collect specimens using venipuncture, capillary puncture, or arterial methods with minimal patient discomfort, adhering to collection protocols and safety practices.
• Ensure blood culture contamination rates remain below 3% and accurately document specimen comments.
• Provide clear instructions to patients regarding specimen collection and dietary restrictions.
• Foster a respectful and supportive environment for patients and colleagues alike.

Education

High school diploma or GED is required.

Experience

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

Certification/License

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

Mental and Physical Requirements

This role requires close mental and visual attention for short periods, with approximately 50% of the time spent standing and walking. Ability to lift or carry up to 20 pounds is necessary.

Working Conditions

Expect regular exposure to infectious materials in an air-conditioned environment with moderate noise levels. Flexibility to work various shifts is required.