Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist FT Evenings

Trinity Health•Waterloo, IA

About The Position

MercyOne is hiring a Lab Assistant to support laboratory departments with the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests used in patient diagnosis and treatment. The position helps ensure accurate handling of specimens and patient information, efficient testing workflows, timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safety standards. The role includes collecting specimens from patients ranging from neonates to geriatric adults, receiving and processing specimens, using the Laboratory Information System (LIS), and assisting with patient specimens or test orders that require resolution. It also contributes to general laboratory operations, including supply restocking, peer teaching, and assigned department or hospital projects. The schedule is 40 hours per week on the evening shift, with every-other-weekend and holiday rotation. A high school diploma or GED is required. Laboratory experience and medical terminology knowledge are preferred.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Strong computer skills and the ability to learn new systems and tools quickly.
Ability to work in a collaborative, shared leadership environment.
A personal presence characterized by 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 appropriate to patient age, and collect specimens according to laboratory policy.
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), evaluate 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.
Assist in resolving 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.
Use laboratory information systems to support accurate data entry and workflow management.
Restock supplies, participate in peer teaching, and engage in department or hospital committees and projects as assigned.