Clinical Laboratory Assistant

Advocate Health; Albemarle (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Advocate Health is seeking a phlebotomy technician to collect and process patient blood samples by venipuncture or capillary puncture. You will assist with specimen handling, registration, and provide courteous phone support to patient care areas.

The role requires knowledge of lab techniques and safety practices, with proficiency in lab information systems and a commitment to accurate documentation and cross‑contamination prevention.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; phlebotomy certification preferred where phlebotomy is a duty.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques and testing procedures.
• Familiarity with lab equipment, cleaning and sterilization processes.
• Ability to interpret basic medical terminology for staff communication.
• Proficiency with computer systems and hospital information systems.
• Understanding of safety policies, universal precautions and PPE usage.

Responsibilities

• Collects and processes patient blood samples by venipuncture or capillary puncture.
• Process nonblood specimens accurately and timely.
• Assist in specimen preparation, receipt and transport of specimens.
• Perform patient registration and provide polite phone support to care areas.
• Maintain documentation and labeling of specimens per standards.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Laboratory techniques

Laboratory equipment

Medical terminology

Computer systems

Safety & PPE

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Phlebotomy Certification (preferred)

Job description

Essential Functions

• Collects and/or processes patient blood obtained by venipuncture and/or capillary puncture timely and accurate.
• Processes nonblood patient specimens in a timely and accurate fashion.
• Assists in specimen preparation, receipt, and transport of patient specimens.
• Performs patient registration.
• Provides phone support for patient care areas in a polite and supportive manner.
• Maintains competency with hospital and laboratory information systems as needed to perform job duties.
• Trains new team members and/or students in the department including any standard work processes applicable to the work area.
• Receives lab orders from providers, prepares necessary documentation, and performs all routine laboratory tests.
• Maintains necessary documentation for all tests according to standards and labeling all specimens following set standards. Maintains knowledge of specimen collection devices and tubes.
• Maintains equipment, keeps area clean, stocks supplies and keeps work space organized.
• Practices sterile technique and prevents cross contamination. Handles blood and body fluids and deals with infectious patients.
• Performs minor laboratory procedures accurately, precisely, and efficiently under minimal supervision including chemistry, hematology, urinalysis, and immunology.
• Perform phlebotomy through venous and capillary puncture following established procedures in accordance with age specific considerations of patients. Observes strict principles of antisepsis to prevent infection of patient and contamination of specimens.
• Receives and collects urine specimens to perform all routine tests.
• Performs specimen preparation for all procedures/tests.
• Maintains supplies inventory communicating needs to supervisor.
• Reports varying in-house test results in addition to all abnormal findings to clinical staff.
• Complies with all policies and OSHA regulations related to safety, cleanliness, and infection control. Practices sterile technique and prevents cross contamination. Handles blood and body fluids and deals with infectious patients.
• Follows general safety procedures and utilizes PPE appropriately.

Physical Requirements

Works in a fast-paced clinical environment. Works in an area that contains biohazardous (infectious) materials along with chemical, fire, and mechanical hazards. Exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, sharp instruments, fumes, ionizing radiation, hazardous materials Duties may involve standing, walking, stretching, stooping, bending, and lifting light (20 pound) to moderately heavy (50 pound) loads. Some latex exposure may be expected. Wears appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times while working with patient specimens.

Education, Experience and Certifications

High School Diploma or GED required; Certification in phlebotomy preferred for facilities where phlebotomy is an assigned duty.

Skills/Qualifications:

• Knowledge of laboratory techniques to perform minor laboratory tests
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment and testing to operate, clean, and sterilize
• Knowledge of appropriate medical terminology to communicate with staff
• Knowledge of computer systems and applications
• Knowledge of organizational policies, procedures and protocols
• Knowledge of common safety hazards and universal precautions to establish a safe work environment

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.