Laboratory Assistant

Beacon Health System; Granger (IN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Granger is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to manage specimen processing, perform phlebotomy, and support laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills and a commitment to patient care. Join a dedicated team focused on delivering outstanding healthcare and improving patient outcomes.

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience in patient care or related field preferred.
• Phlebotomy training or experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Process and accession specimens, ensuring accurate documentation.
• Perform phlebotomy and Point-of-Care testing as needed.
• Provide clerical support to maintain efficient laboratory operations.

Skills

Communication

Problem-Solving

Organizational Skills

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Reports to: Laboratory Manager

As a Laboratory Assistant, you will be responsible for processing and accessioning specimens, ensuring accurate documentation, and performing phlebotomy and Point-of-Care testing as needed. You will also provide clerical support to maintain efficient laboratory operations.

Our Mission, Values, and Service Goals

Mission: Deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.

Values: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.

Service Goals: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.

Key Responsibilities

Specimen Processing & Laboratory Operations

• Accession laboratory test requests, verify order accuracy, and resolve discrepancies.
• Process and route specimens to the appropriate laboratory sections.
• Operate the Laboratory Information System (LIS) to generate draw lists, specimen labels, reports, and worksheets.
• Prioritize specimen processing based on urgency and ensure timely handling.
• Accurately document and verify patient information for lab records and billing.
• Ensure requisitions are complete and appropriately authorized.
• Perform venipuncture and phlebotomy procedures with accuracy and patient safety in mind.
• Collect and verify non-blood specimens, ensuring integrity for accurate testing.
• Conduct toxicology specimen collections following regulatory guidelines.
• Perform Point-of-Care testing and immediately notify physicians of critical results.
• Maintain compliance with moderate complexity testing regulations as defined in CFR.493.1425.
• Properly identify patients and specimens following strict protocols.
• Prepare specimens and supplies for transport, adhering to shipping regulations.
• Identify and document quality concerns as part of the laboratory’s quality improvement plan.
• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment, including scheduled equipment cleaning.
• Provide trauma support by delivering blood products and assisting in urgent situations.
• Communicate with care teams regarding any specimen collection delays or complications.
• Adhere to all quality assurance and control procedures.
  
  

Clerical & Office Support

• Serve as a resource for clinical staff, answering lab-related questions and clarifying procedures.
• Assist internal and external customers with inquiries and problem resolution.
• Answer calls, coordinate specimen pick-ups, dispatch couriers, and provide lab reports as needed.
• Transport specimens, reports, and supplies as required.
• Maintain inventory, place supply orders, and ensure lab areas are stocked appropriately.
• Ensure proper waste disposal and adherence to OSHA safety guidelines.
  
  

General Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records, reports, and files per departmental policies.
• Support the department’s overall effectiveness by completing additional job-related duties as assigned.
  
  

Organizational Responsibilities

All team members are expected to:

• Attend and actively participate in department meetings.
• Complete required training, annual competencies, and department-specific education on time.
• Fulfill annual employee health requirements.
• Maintain required certifications and registrations throughout the year.
• Adhere to universal precautions, safety protocols, and ergonomic best practices.
• Comply with regulatory requirements and hospital policies.
• Be available for overtime and flexible scheduling when necessary.
  
  

Commitment To The Beacon Way

• Leverage Innovation Everywhere – Seek new ways to improve.
• Cultivate Human Talent – Support team growth and development.
• Embrace Performance Improvement – Strive for excellence.
• Build Greatness Through Accountability – Take ownership of responsibilities.
• Use Information to Improve and Advance – Make data-driven decisions.
• Communicate Clearly and Continuously – Keep others informed.
  
  

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required (courses in mathematics and biological sciences preferred).
• At least one year of experience in patient care, customer service, clerical work, or a related field preferred.
• Phlebotomy training or experience preferred.
• Must qualify as testing personnel for moderate complexity testing (CFR.493.1423).
  
  

Knowledge & Skills

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment with competing priorities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients, medical staff, and team members.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work independently.
• Proficient computer skills for data entry and lab systems operation.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle inquiries professionally.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Exposure to communicable diseases, hazardous substances, and chemicals common in a hospital laboratory.
• May require travel to off-site locations for specimen transport.
  
  

Physical Demands

• Requires prolonged standing/walking and the ability to lift/push up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to position and assist patients safely (maximum of 35 pounds unassisted; over 35 pounds requires assistance).
• Ability to perform CPR and other emergency procedures as needed.