Lab Assistant l

Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center; Salida (CO); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center in Salida, CO is seeking a detail-oriented Lab Assistant I to join our clinical team. You will assist with specimen collection, processing, labeling, and basic pre-analytic tasks, while delivering compassionate patient care in a fast-paced environment.

Ideal candidates may have phlebotomy training and a willingness to learn; BLS certification is preferred. The role supports a collaborative lab workflow and adherence to safety standards.

Qualifications

• Phlebotomy training or certification preferred.
• Experience in patient care or clinical settings is a plus.
• BLS certification is recommended/required.

Responsibilities

• Explain the importance of lab tests to patients and guide them through preparation.
• Collect specimens (blood, urine, swabs, etc.) following guidelines.
• Accurately label specimens and notify the testing team of any handling requirements.
• Prepare specimens for transport with proper labeling and preservation.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Patient care

Teamwork

Detail-oriented

Education

Certified Phlebotomist program

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and compassionate Lab Assistant I to join our healthcare team. In this role, you will be responsible for ordering laboratory tests, collecting and processing patient specimens, preparing reports, and ensuring accurate handling of all laboratory samples. The ideal candidate is skilled in phlebotomy, organized, and committed to providing excellent patient care in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Discover Your Career in the Heart of the Rockies!

At Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center (HRRMC), we’re more than just a healthcare facility—we’re a cornerstone of our community nested in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. With a commitment to excellence, compassion, and innovation, we offer state-of-the-art medical services, including emergency care, surgery, imaging, and much more.

Our mission is clear: to provide high-quality, patient-centered care while fostering the well-being of our community. We believe in making a positive impact not just through our healthcare services but also by creating a supportive and collaborative environment for our team members.

What You’ll Do:

• Explain the importance of lab tests to patients and guide them through preparation.
• Collect a wide variety of specimens (blood, urine, swabs, saliva, etc.) following prescribed guidelines.
• Accurately label specimens and notify the testing team of special handling requirements.

Pre-Analytic Specimen Handling

• Prepare specimens for transport, ensuring proper preservation and labeling.

Receptionist & Clerk Functions

• Ensure medical necessity for test requests utilizing currently available information. Inform patients of limited coverage.
• Clarify written orders with ordering physician or agency through appropriate channels.
• Accurately enter patient demographic, billing information and test order in laboratory computer system. Obtain patient consent as applicable.

What We’re Looking For

• A compassionate, proactive individual ready to take on diverse responsibilities.
• Someone who thrives in a team environment and values patient safety and comfort.
• A candidate committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming space for patients and staff alike.
• Must have the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively and adapt to changing priorities; demonstrate resourcefulness and good problem-solving skills.
• A negative drug screen test*
• Criminal background check
• Reference checks

Why Join Us?

• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.
• A chance to work in a collaborative, patient-centered environment.
• Opportunities for growth and professional development.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Completion of a Certified Phlebotomist program is desirable.
• Related experience and/or training is preferred, but not required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• BLS certification

We offer competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package to support your career growth and personal well-being. For details about our benefits, view our Benefits Guide

Employment offers are contingent upon successfully fulfilling all pre-employment requirements, including a background check, drug screening, and verification of current immunizations.