Lab Assistant - Patient-Centered Diagnostics

MercyOne; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

MercyOne is seeking a Lab Assistant to support multiple laboratory departments by collecting, processing, analyzing, and reporting tests essential for patient diagnosis and treatment. You will perform venipunctures and specimen handling with accuracy and efficiency.

The role requires collaboration in a shared leadership environment and strong computer skills to operate LIS and related systems. Day shift, full-time hours in Des Moines, IA offer comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities

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.
• Must possess a personal presence that is characterized by a sense of honesty, integrity, and caring, with the ability to inspire and motivate others to promote the philosophy, mission, vision, goals, and values of Trinity Health and MercyOne.

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

Laboratory experience

Medical terminology

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Laboratory Information System (LIS)

Job description

MercyOne is seeking a Lab Assistant to support multiple laboratory departments by collecting, processing, analyzing, and reporting tests essential for patient diagnosis and treatment. You will perform venipunctures and specimen handling with accuracy and efficiency.

The role requires collaboration in a shared leadership environment and strong computer skills to operate LIS and related systems. Day shift, full-time hours in Des Moines, IA offer comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities