Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist

PeaceHealth; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

PeaceHealth in Washington state is seeking a Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist for a full-time, day shift. The role combines specimen collection, processing, and LIS support to ensure accurate results and smooth patient flow.

You will work with the healthcare team to delivery timely care, perform waived tests as assigned, and uphold safety standards. WA state phlebotomy certification or equivalent is required or pursued within 180 days of hire, with opportunities for growth within PeaceHealth.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required or preferred.
• WA State Medical Assistant – Phlebotomy Certification required at hire or within 180 days of hire.
• Phlebotomy skills and ability to ensure patient safety and proper specimen handling.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, deliver, and label items per lab policies to maintain specimen integrity and patient safety.
• Collect and label specimens for testing; process per guidelines and document accordingly.
• Enter patient demographics and test orders into LIS; process and submit specimens.
• Receive, sort, process, and package specimens and handle related communications.
• Perform waived testing as assigned and identify abnormal results for follow-up.

Skills

Patient communication

Independent worker

Electronic LIS

Phlebotomy/ specimen collection

Safety and compliance

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Description

PeaceHealth is seeking a Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist for a Full Time, 1.00 FTE, Day position.

The salary range for this job opening at PeaceHealth is $23.92 – $35.90. This role may be eligible for a hiring bonus!

The hiring rate is dependent upon several factors, including but not limited to education, training, work experience, terms of any applicable collective bargaining agreement, seniority, etc.

This position is represented by a collective bargaining agreement. There may be more than one opening on this posting.

Job Summary

Works collaboratively with all healthcare team members toward the best outcomes for the patient and the organization. May perform phlebotomy services, specimen collection/handling, utilize knowledge of department procedures and computerized Lab Information Systems (LIS), and support patients with information and direction utilizing laboratory services. Assists lab staff with delivering patient care, distributing lab results and reports, and operation of laboratory equipment.

Essential Functions

• Prepares, delivers, and picks up items in accordance with health and safety regulations and laboratory policies to ensure specimen integrity, quality patient care, and caregiver safety.
• Collects and labels specimens for requested testing, processes specimen according to established guidelines and completes documentation for the specimen.
• Performs data entry of patient demographics and tests ordered. Performs all paperwork, technical, and nontechnical procedures required to process and submit specimens.
• Receives, handles, sorts, processes, or packages specimens.
• Receives and makes telephone calls and uses computer terminal and reference guides to provide information and answer questions from clients and patients, regarding specimen requirements, test results and other client requests.
• Performs waived testing as assigned. Recognizes abnormal results and follows up as defined in standard operating procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma Preferred: or equivalent
• Preferred: Prior clinical laboratory experience

Skills

• Able to approach, communicate and positively interact with patients and health care professionals while performing their duties, frequently under stressful conditions. (Required)
• Able to work without supervision but know when to consult with supervisory personnel for assistance in determining appropriate actions. (Required)
• Able to use the electronic laboratory information system. Must perform work activities in accordance with established policies and procedures. (Required)
• Able to recognize the various levels of service (routine to critical) demanded of the laboratory and prioritize work and adjust working style to accommodate said demands. (Required)
• Able to prioritize effectively and manage multiple tasks at one time. (Required)

Department / Location Specific Notes

Lab Assistant – Phlebotomist

• Following established standards and practices, the Phlebotomist instructs patients in the procedure for collection of specimens, collects specimens and performs simple laboratory procedures.

Washington State License/Certification requirements:

• WA State: Medical Assistant – Phlebotomy Certification is either required at the time of hire or the application must be submitted within 14 days of hire with the active credential in place within 180 days of hire.

Working Conditions

• Patient handling no greater than 35 lbs. without the use of assistive equipment and/or devices (NIOSH).
• Ability to move around area with occasional sitting.
• Fine motor skills to be able to grasp and control medical equipment (i.e. stretchers, wheelchairs, etc.).
• Frequent reaching/ grasping.
• Occasional bending/ stooping.
• Push/Pull: Frequently up to 25 lbs. force. Occasional up to 50 lbs. force.
• Exposure to biohazard, body fluids and airborne particles.
• Exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals.
• Time spent on site in medical/hospital setting.
• Vision and hearing required within normal limits (glasses, contacts, hearing aids permitted).
• Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information.

PeaceHealth is committed to the overall wellbeing of our caregivers: physical, emotional, financial, social, and spiritual. We offer caregivers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package. Some of the many benefits included in this package are full medical/dental/vision coverage; 403b retirement plan employer base and matching contributions; paid time off; employer-paid life and disability insurance with additional buyup coverage options; tuition and continuing education reimbursement; wellness benefits, and expanded EAP and mental health program.

PeaceHealth is committed to Inclusivity, Respect for Diversity and Cultural Humility.

EEO Aff‑ icial Action Employer/Vets/Disabled in accordance with applicable local, state, or federal laws.