Histology Assistant

Trinity Health • Des Moines, IA

1d

About The Position

The Histology Assistant supports laboratory departments by assisting technical staff with the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests used in patient diagnosis and treatment. The role ensures specimens, patient information, and testing workflows are handled accurately and efficiently, contributing to timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safety standards.

The position works a day shift from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with no holidays or weekends. It requires accurate specimen collection and processing, effective use of laboratory information systems, and collaboration with laboratory staff and clients. The role also contributes to general laboratory operations and supports MercyOne’s mission and values.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong computer skills and the ability to learn new systems and tools quickly.
• Comfort operating in a collaborative, shared-leadership environment.
• Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and caring, with the ability to inspire and motivate others in support of Trinity Health and MercyOne’s philosophy, mission, vision, goals, and values.

Nice To Haves

• Laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.

Responsibilities

• Perform venipunctures, finger sticks, and heel sticks for patients from neonates through geriatric adults, following laboratory specimen-collection policies.
• Accept specimens and requisitions from internal and external customers; manage add-on orders and pending lists according to laboratory procedures.
• Identify patients and specimens using two unique patient identifiers and accurately label specimen containers.
• Register and log specimens in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), assess specimen adequacy and acceptability, and scan required documentation into patient records.
• Process specimens through identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide preparation, special handling, and required documentation in accordance with laboratory protocols.
• Help resolve problematic patient specimens and test orders in collaboration with laboratory staff and clients.
• Follow safety, infection-control, and chemical-handling procedures and support workflow practices that promote accurate testing, timely turnaround, and productivity.
• Operate laboratory information systems to support accurate data entry and workflow management.
• Restock supplies, participate in peer teaching, and contribute to department or hospital committees and projects as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Full benefits package.
• Opportunity for growth throughout the system.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED