Laboratory Assistant / Phlebotomist

Family Health Care Centers of Greater Los Angeles, Inc.•Bell Gardens, CA

19h•$24 - $25

About The Position

The Laboratory Assistant / Phlebotomist performs venipuncture and other specimen collection procedures to obtain samples for laboratory testing and diagnostic purposes. The role ensures proper patient identification, specimen collection, labeling, processing, and handling to maintain specimen integrity and patient safety. The phlebotomist interacts with patients and medical providers to deliver high-quality care while following laboratory procedures. The position also supports specimen testing and transport, accurate records and billing data entry, laboratory equipment and inventory maintenance, coordination with outside laboratories and vendors, and collaboration with healthcare providers and staff. The role requires adherence to HIPAA, OSHA, CLIA, and infection-control standards, along with professional, confidential, and patient-focused service.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Certification with the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. and/or the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).
Current BLS certification, maintained and kept up to date.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Fluency in spoken and written English and Spanish.
Excellent analytical and critical-thinking skills.
Access to an automobile, a valid California driver's license, and state-mandated automobile insurance; willingness to travel among FHCCGLA sites and attend off-site events, meetings, and trainings.
Commitment to FHCCGLA's mission and vision and to providing high-quality healthcare to indigent and underserved communities.
Ability to adapt to changes, including schedule changes, agency growth, and expansion.
Ability to prioritize workload and work under pressure to meet tight, sensitive deadlines.
Knowledge of legal requirements for drawing blood, handling specimens, and using relevant medical equipment.
Strong dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Exceptional attention to detail to support patient safety and data integrity.
Ability to stand and walk, and to lift or carry laboratory shipment supplies weighing at least ten pounds.
Ability to work professionally and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
Well-developed interpersonal skills, a friendly personality, and the ability to promote teamwork and motivate staff.
Ability to relate to the public and staff regardless of ethnicity, religion, or economic status.
Strong planning and organizational skills.
Problem analysis and critical-thinking skills.
Excellent customer-service skills.
Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

Two years of phlebotomy experience.
FQHC experience.
Computer knowledge, including NextGen (EHR and PMS), Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.
Knowledge of PPOs, HMOs, CPE, Medicare, Family PACT, CPSP, Medi-Cal, fee-for-service, managed care plans, and Every Woman Counts.

Responsibilities

Verify each patient's identity using two independent identifiers before drawing blood or collecting specimens, and ensure the information matches the lab requisition, EHR, and specimen labels.
Assess patient needs and history, print the correct provider lab requisition, and determine the reason for specimen collection.
Verify and collect the samples required for specific tests and label them accurately.
Perform venipuncture, capillary punctures, and other specimen collection procedures according to training, certification, and established protocols.
Handle and label specimens according to laboratory standards and safety practices.
Analyze blood specimens using the correct testing equipment.
Prepare specimens for transport or pickup, place them in the appropriate collection box, and maintain required temperatures.
Maintain accurate specimen records and enter information promptly into patients' electronic health records.
Collect and enter accurate data for billing reimbursement.
Comply with HIPAA requirements and protect the confidentiality of patients' protected health information.
Follow quality-control standards and clean, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment according to manufacturer instructions.
Keep the laboratory clean, organized, and stocked.
Coordinate timely specimen pickups with laboratories, including Quest, LabCorp, and Foundation Lab.
Serve as a liaison among patients, laboratories, and FHCCGLA to resolve billing questions and discrepancies.
Coordinate supply orders and deliveries with vendors and laboratory representatives.
Maintain cost-effective inventory practices and report supply needs to the immediate supervisor.
Assist with blood draws for OB AFP testing.
Train and mentor new phlebotomy staff when assigned.
Collaborate with healthcare providers and FHCCGLA staff to support efficient workflow and quality patient care.
Check monthly for expired items and maintain a log for audit purposes.
Use equipment and supplies appropriately to prevent waste or damage.
Build cooperative working relationships with providers and coworkers.
Communicate professionally and inspire confidence in patients and visitors.
Handle unexpected and stressful situations, such as walk-ins and surges, with a friendly and professional demeanor.
Adhere to OSHA, CLIA, and infection-control standards.
Seek support from a medical provider when needed, including for emergencies or difficult blood draws.
Attend mandatory quarterly staff trainings and other pertinent meetings requested by leadership.
Perform other duties as assigned, which may change according to business needs.