Lab Aide Microbiology PRN

Community Health Systems; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Health Systems in Fort Wayne, IN is seeking a Lab Aide to support laboratory operations by performing phlebotomy, preparing specimens for testing, and assisting with processing and data entry.

The role emphasizes accurate patient identification, labeling, and compliance with HIPAA, CAP/CLIA standards, and safety protocols, contributing to timely patient care.

Qualifications

• Completion of a formal phlebotomy training program or equivalent coursework preferred.
• 0-2 years of laboratory or phlebotomy experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs venipuncture, finger stick, and heel stick procedures in accordance with lab policies.
• Accurately identifies patients and labels specimens to minimize errors.
• Records collection information into the LIS with accuracy.
• Retrieves and verifies patient and specimen data in LIS; assists with data entry.
• Maintains clean and stocked phlebotomy carts and work areas.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Specimen collection techniques

Data entry

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Confidentiality/compliance

Education

Technical School phlebotomy training program

Tools

LIS (Laboratory Information System)

Job description

Job Summary

The Lab Aide supports laboratory operations by performing phlebotomy procedures, preparing specimens for testing or transport, and assisting with specimen processing and data entry. This role ensures accurate identification, labeling, and handling of specimens in accordance with laboratory protocols, safety standards, and regulatory guidelines. The Lab Aide contributes to timely and efficient patient care by maintaining clear communication and operational support within the lab.

Essential Functions

• Performs venipuncture, finger stick, and heel stick procedures on patients of all ages in accordance with laboratory policies and safety standards.




• Accurately identifies patients and labels specimens at the bedside or collection site to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and minimize specimen errors.




• Records phlebotomy collection information, including collection and receipt times, into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) with accuracy.




• Retrieves, enters, and verifies patient and specimen information in the laboratory information system (LIS); assists with data entry and troubleshooting.




• Monitors and resolves collection lists, pending reports, and discrepancies in specimen status in coordination with clinical staff.




• Collects chain of custody urine drug screens following established protocols for pre-employment, post-accident, and for-cause testing; completes required documentation.




• Collaborates with team members and willingly assists in completing daily tasks and departmental duties to support smooth workflow.




• Complies with infection control, HIPAA, and laboratory safety standards, including appropriate disposal of supplies and maintenance of a clean work area.




• Maintains phlebotomy carts and collection areas in a clean, organized, and fully stocked condition to ensure readiness for all patient encounters.




• Adheres to patient identification policies, labeling protocols, and specimen handling guidelines to meet CAP, CLIA, and organizational standards.




• Demonstrates flexibility by adapting to schedule changes and supporting off-site collections as assigned.




• Performs other duties as assigned.




• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.




• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Technical School completion of a formal phlebotomy training program or equivalent coursework preferred




• 0-2 years of laboratory or phlebotomy experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of specimen collection techniques and laboratory protocols.




• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions with attention to detail.




• Familiarity with medical terminology and basic laboratory equipment.




• Effective communication and customer service skills.




• Basic computer proficiency and data entry skills.




• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to compliance and safety standards.

Licenses and Certifications

• BLS - Basic Life Support required

Equal Employment Opportunity

This organization does not discriminate in any way to deprive any person of employment opportunities or otherwise adversely affect the status of any employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, or military or uniformed services, in accordance with all applicable governmental laws and regulations. In addition, the facility complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to: hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. If you are an applicant with a mental or physical disability who needs a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, contact the director of Human Resources at the facility to which you are seeking employment; Simply go to http://www.chs.net/serving-communities/locations/ to obtain the main telephone number of the facility and ask for Human Resources.