Lead Lab Assistant

Cooper University Health Care • Cape May Court House, NJ

70d • $17 - $21

About The Position

The Lead Lab Assistant functions as the evening shift point person for phlebotomy operations. This role balances hands-on specimen collection and processing with staff oversight, troubleshooting, and communication with supervisors. By ensuring adequate coverage, supporting staff, and escalating issues appropriately, the Lead Lab Assistant promotes safe, efficient, and high-quality laboratory services.

Requirements

• 2-3 years of Lab Assistant experience preferred
• Phlebotomy experience required
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Completion of a phlebotomy training program

Responsibilities

• Monitors and coordinates phlebotomist workflow during evening and weekend shifts to ensure timely patient collections and equitable workload distribution.
• Ensures adequate phlebotomy coverage by arranging meal break coverage, filling staffing shortages, and redistributing assignments when needed.
• Acts as first point of contact for phlebotomists during shift for questions, support, and immediate problem-solving.
• Performs blood collections when workload demands exceed staffing or when technical assistance is required.
• Provides hands-on support in high-volume or difficult collection situations.
• Ensures adherence to patient identification, labeling, and infection control standards.
• Identifies and resolves routine issues related to phlebotomy, specimen handling, and workflow interruptions.
• Escalates unresolved or complex issues to the shift supervisor or charge tech in a timely manner.
• Documents and communicates relevant shift events or concerns to leadership for follow-up.
• Performs specimen receiving, accessioning, and processing activities.
• Ensures proper sample identification, integrity, and dispatch to appropriate laboratory sections.
• Performs with add-on testing, referral specimens, and pneumatic tube operations.
• Responds professionally to phone inquiries regarding specimen collection and test status.
• Dispatches stat phlebotomist for nursing homes.
• Provides guidance to staff and clinical units on collection requirements or escalates as needed.
• Serves as a communication link between phlebotomy staff and laboratory supervisors.
• Accurately documents specimen-related activities in LIS and section logs.
• Ensures proper tracking of send-outs and referral testing documentation.
• Supports clerical functions to maintain smooth operations during evening shifts.
• Monitors adherence to safety, infection control, and HIPAA regulations by phlebotomy staff.
• Reports hazards, incidents, or compliance concerns promptly.
• Assists in training and mentoring new or less experienced lab assistants and phlebotomists.
• Monitors equipment used during the evening shift (refrigerators, freezers, pneumatic tube stations, centrifuges) and documents results.
• Ensures supplies are stocked and available to avoid workflow disruptions.

Benefits

• Competitive rates and compensation programs
• Comprehensive employee benefits program including health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Retirement plan
• On-site Early Education Center (employee discount)
• Professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Industry: Ambulatory Health Care Services
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees