Laboratory Assistant I

AdventHealth•Mission, TX

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for performing a variety of laboratory support procedures in assigned laboratory areas, including phlebotomy, specimen collection, specimen processing, and laboratory support functions within clinical and anatomical pathology. This position supports accurate and timely specimen processing while maintaining compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory standards. The role contributes to efficient laboratory operations through customer service, clerical support, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and continuous professional development.

Requirements

Knowledge of laboratory procedures, specimen collection, specimen processing, and laboratory operations.
Technical skills related to laboratory processes and support activities performed within assigned areas.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, with patients, providers, team members, and customers.
Ability to read, interpret, and apply written procedures, technical information, and numerical data.
Ability to comprehend, reason, problem solve, and exercise sound judgment within established guidelines.
Basic computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to learn and utilize laboratory information systems, electronic health records, and related technology platforms.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
Ability to safely handle biological specimens, hazardous chemicals, and laboratory materials.
Knowledge of waived testing procedures and quality standards when applicable.
Phlebotomy skills, including venipuncture and capillary collection techniques.
Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
Ability to organize work, manage multiple priorities, and maintain attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Commitment to quality, safety, accuracy, and continuous learning.
High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Nice To Haves

Technical or Vocational School training preferred.
Completion of a phlebotomy training program preferred.
Previous laboratory, healthcare, specimen processing, or phlebotomy experience preferred.
Driver's License preferred.
Phlebotomy Technician (PBT-ASCP) certification preferred.
Medical Laboratory Associate (MLA-ASCP) certification preferred.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Collects patient, physician, and test order information to create and maintain accurate patient accounts and records.
Verifies patient identification, insurance information, credentials, and testing requirements.
Performs blood specimen collection, including venipuncture and skin puncture procedures for patients of all ages as assigned.
Receives, processes, labels, centrifuges, aliquots, and transports specimens according to established laboratory procedures.
Loads specimens onto pre-analytical instrumentation or delivers specimens to appropriate testing departments.
Performs point-of-care testing activities, including quality control, maintenance, troubleshooting, documentation, and result reporting as assigned.
Provides clerical and receptionist support, including answering telephones and assisting patients, providers, and other customers.
May perform blood and blood component processing, storage, shipping, modification, and selection activities utilizing approved transfusion information systems.
May perform cytopreparatory staining and surgical pathology accessioning procedures.
May receive, prepare, and inoculate microbiology specimens and culture media.
Maintains laboratory equipment, workspaces, and supplies through cleaning, disinfection, inventory control, and stocking activities.
Participates in laboratory and organizational performance improvement initiatives, including evaluation of new equipment and procedures.
Provides customer service support and assists in resolving issues within established guidelines.
Supports education and communication efforts with clinical staff and laboratory customers.
Handles hazardous waste, chemicals, biological specimens, and related materials in accordance with established safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Maintains compliance with Chemical Hygiene, Infection Prevention, Personal Protective Equipment, and laboratory safety policies.
Performs other duties as assigned.