Histology Lab Assistant — Day Shift

Trinity Health Corp.; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Full benefits package

Growth opportunities

Job summary

MercyOne is seeking a Lab Assistant in Des Moines, IA to support multiple laboratory departments by assisting technical staff in collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of tests for patient diagnosis and treatment.

You will ensure specimens and patient information are accurately handled, contributing to timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safety standards. High school diploma or GED required.

Qualifications

• Laboratory experience and knowledge of medical terminology preferred.
• Strong computer skills with the ability to learn new systems and tools quickly.
• Must be comfortable operating in a collaborative, shared leadership environment.

Responsibilities

• Performs venipunctures, finger sticks, and heel sticks appropriate to patient age (neonates through geriatric adults) and ensures proper specimen collection according to laboratory policy.
• Accepts specimens and requisitions from internal and external customers and manages add‑on orders and pending lists in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Identifies patients and specimens using two unique patient identifiers and accurately labels specimen containers to ensure correct identification.
• Registers and logs specimens in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), evaluates specimen adequacy and acceptability, and scans required documentation into the patient record.
• Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide preparation, special handling, and required documentation in accordance with laboratory protocols.
• Assists in resolving problematic patient specimens and test orders in collaboration with laboratory staff and clients.
• Follows safety, infection control, and chemical‑handling procedures and supports efficient workflow practices that promote accurate testing, timely turnaround, and productivity expectations.
• Operates laboratory information systems proficiently to support accurate data entry and workflow management.
• Contributes to general laboratory operations by restocking supplies, participating in peer teaching, and engaging in department or hospital committees and projects as assigned.

Skills

Strong computer skills

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

MercyOne is seeking a Lab Assistant in Des Moines, IA to support multiple laboratory departments by assisting technical staff in collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of tests for patient diagnosis and treatment.

You will ensure specimens and patient information are accurately handled, contributing to timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safety standards. High school diploma or GED required.