Lab Assistant SMH-E- Night Shift 7 on 7 off

Ochsner Health; Pearl Acres (LA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Ochsner Health in Pearl Acres, LA, is seeking a Laboratory Assistant/Phlebotomy Technician to support the department through phlebotomy, specimen processing into LIS, and routine QC. The role requires attention to detail and compliance with safety protocols.

Responsibilities include specimen collection, processing orders, testing setup, inventory management, and adapting communication to patients while maintaining privacy and quality service.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent.
• Formal phlebotomy training preferred.
• Current license as Laboratory Assistant or Laboratory Assistant Trainee in the state.
• License must be acquired/submitted within 180 days from hire.
• 1 year hospital-based phlebotomy experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs specimen collection.
• Processes orders.
• Performs patient testing and specimen setup.
• Performs quality control and meets educational requirements.
• Orders, inventories and stocks supplies.
• Adapts behavior to the patient population, including privacy and communication style.
• Other related duties as required.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Specimen handling

Quality control

Data entry

Windows applications

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Analytical skills

Independence

Math calculations

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Formal phlebotomy training

Tools

Laboratory information system (LIS)

Lab equipment

Job description

This position performs laboratory functions which support the department. Responsibilities include phlebotomy; specimen receiving and processing into the LIS; centrifugation; aliquoting, labeling and distribution of specimens to the appropriate test sites. The role performs waived and moderately complex procedures, maintains and monitors equipment, and conducts appropriate quality control.

Education

Required – High School diploma or equivalent

Preferred – Formal phlebotomy training

Work Experience

Required – Experience working in a controlled environment, following safety measures to minimize exposure to chemicals, body fluids, blood‑borne pathogens, etc.

Preferred – 1 year hospital‑based phlebotomy experience

Certifications

Required – Current License as a Laboratory Assistant or Laboratory Assistant Trainee in the state of practice. The Laboratory Assistant Trainee license will only be valid for this position during the first 180 days from the date of hire. Louisiana License as a Laboratory Assistant must be acquired and submitted to laboratory management within 180 days from date of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of information.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally.
• Must be proficient with Windows‑style applications, various software packages specific to role and keyboard.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Analytical skills necessary to operate laboratory computers, printers and laboratory equipment.
• Judgment skills necessary to identify and solve problems as well as handle difficult situations.
• Self‑directed with the ability to work independently.
• Ability to read and perform basic math calculations.
• Ability to manage stress in order to maintain a professional atmosphere and provide quality service.

Job Duties

• Performs specimen collection.
• Processes orders.
• Performs patient testing and specimen set up.
• Performs and documents quality control and meets all educational requirements.
• Orders, inventories and stocks supplies.
• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to: respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.
• Other related duties as required.

Physical and Environmental Demands

Medium Work – Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Ability to work in a medium to heavy activity with the ability to sit/stand at a counter/bench approximately 2 ½ - 3 ½ ft. high and to move freely about the campus.

Must be able to transport items up to 30 lbs. (i.e.: supply boxes, files, 24 hr urine containers, etc.).

Must be able to bend, reach and/or stoop while performing various functions.

Must have mental and visual acuity and ability to discern colors.

Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue.

The incumbent works in a patient care area; works in an area where patients enter; works directly with patients; and/or works with specimens that could contain communicable diseases. There may be an occupational risk for exposure to communicable diseases.

Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.