Laboratory Assistant

Penn State Health; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is seeking a Lab Assistant to support diagnostic testing by collecting, preparing, and processing patient specimens (blood, urine, tissue) for a variety of tests.

You will apply a foundation in laboratory procedures, maintain meticulous attention to detail, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. You’ll prioritize accurate patient identification, teamwork, and courteous interactions across departments.

Qualifications

• High school graduation or GED required.
• BLS/CPR certification within 90 days or as required.
• Phlebotomy/Medical Assisting training preferred.
• Phlebotomy/Medical Assistant certification in WA preferred.

Responsibilities

• Practices positive patient identification at all times.
• Demonstrates kindness and courtesy with patients and coworkers.
• Maintains communication within the department and with other hospital units.
• Supports department workflow and assists team to maintain efficiency.
• Fosters teamwork and collaboration across the lab.
• Processes specimens into the lab and organizes distribution.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Positive patient identification

Education

High School GED General Studies

High School Graduate General Studies

Basic Life Support (CPR)

Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist

Job description

Job Summary and Responsibilities

As a Lab Assistant, you will play a crucial role in solving diagnostic mysteries, bringing us one step closer to effectively treating patient illnesses and injuries.

Every day you will utilize your expertise and our advanced technology to precisely collect, prepare, and process a diverse range of patient specimens (blood, urine, tissue, etc.) for various diagnostic tests.

To be successful in this role, you will possess a foundational understanding of laboratory procedures, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, and maintain an eager commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

• Practices positive patient identification at all times, in all job functions.
• Practices HumanKindness and courtesy with all patient and co-worker interactions.
• Establishes and maintains good communication within the department and with other hospital departments.
• Takes responsibility for the department workflow, assists all members of the team to maintain department workflow and efficiency.
• Creates an atmosphere by manner, work and deed that fosters teamwork and collaboration.
• Processes specimen into the lab, organized for department distribution.

Job Requirements

Required

• High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or
• High School GED General Studies, upon hire and
• Basic Life Support (through AHA) - CPR, within 90 Days and
• Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months

Preferred

• Certificate Other Lab Assistant Program 6 months experience in an acute care facility, upon hire and
• Certificate Other Phlebotomy program, upon hire

Where You'll Work

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.

Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.

Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.

We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.