Lead Phlebotomist/Lab Aid

Community Health Systems; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Health Systems is seeking a Lab Assistant to support routine laboratory tests, specimen processing, and data entry. The role includes phlebotomy, specimen labeling, and adherence to safety policies to ensure efficient patient care.

The position requires a phlebotomy or lab assistant program, or 1–2 years of related experience, and strong organizational skills. Candidates must have a HS diploma or GED and be able to work with LIS/EMR systems in a regulated setting.

Qualifications

• Completion of a laboratory assistant training or phlebotomy program or training course required
• A combination of education and experience (1–2 years) as a phlebotomist may be considered in lieu of program completion
• H.S. Diploma or GED required
• 1–2 years of experience in a laboratory, healthcare, or clinical setting required
• 1–2 years Experience with specimen processing, laboratory equipment, and quality control procedures required

Responsibilities

• Assist laboratory staff in performing routine tests following proper protocols
• Prepare and process specimens with correct labeling, storage and transport
• Maintain laboratory equipment and report malfunctions
• Perform finger sticks, venipunctures and heel sticks per policy
• Ensure safety through HIPAA and biosafety compliance
• Log procedures and specimen data into LIS/EMR
• Support QA/QC documentation and regulatory compliance
• Stock supplies and manage inventory
• Clean and disinfect work areas and equipment
• Assist with data collection and improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with healthcare providers and departments
• Ensure correct patient identification and bedside labeling
• Collect timed specimens as ordered
• Maintain regular attendance and adhere to policies

Skills

Timely communication

Organization

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Education

HS Diploma or GED

Phlebotomy or lab assistant training

Tools

LIS

EMR systems

Job description

Job Summary

The Lab Assistant performs supportive laboratory duties, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and quality control assistance. This role ensures the laboratory operates efficiently by assisting with diagnostic procedures, maintaining safety protocols, and supporting laboratory staff in routine testing and analysis. The Lab Assistant is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked work environment while adhering to regulatory and safety standards. The Lab Assistant supports laboratory operations by performing phlebotomy procedures, preparing specimens for testing or transport, and assisting with specimen processing and data entry. This role ensures accurate identification, labeling, and handling of specimens in accordance with laboratory protocols, safety standards, and regulatory guidelines. The Lab Assistant contributes to timely and efficient patient care by maintaining clear communication and operational support within the lab.

Essential Functions

• Assists laboratory staff in performing routine tests used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, following proper laboratory protocols.
• Prepares and processes specimens, ensuring proper labeling, storage, and transport according to laboratory procedures.
• Maintains laboratory equipment, ensuring it is in good working order, reporting malfunctions, and assisting with routine troubleshooting.
• Performs, finger sticks, venipunctures and heel sticks on patients of all ages in accordance with the laboratory policies and procedures.
• Ensures compliance with safety and infection control standards, including proper handling of biohazardous materials and chemical reagents.
• Logs lab procedures and specimen information into the laboratory information system (LIS), ensuring accuracy and compliance with documentation protocols.
• Performs quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) tasks, assisting in documentation and regulatory compliance efforts.
• Stocks laboratory supplies and maintains inventory, ensuring necessary materials are available for daily operations.
• Cleans and disinfects work surfaces, equipment, and laboratory spaces, ensuring compliance with safety and infection control guidelines.
• Assists with data collection and performance improvement projects, actively participating in process improvement initiatives.
• Collaborates with healthcare providers, laboratory staff, and other departments to ensure efficient specimen processing and workflow.
• Ensures positive patient identification by using two patient identifiers and labeling specimens at the patient's bedside to prevent errors.
• Collects timed specimens as ordered, prioritizing and efficiently completing phlebotomy tasks to meet clinical needs.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Completion of a laboratory assistant training or phlebotomy program or training course required or
• A combination of education and experience (i.e., 1-2 years) as a phlebotomist may be considered in lieu of program completion
• H.S. Diploma or GED required
• 1-2 years of experience in a laboratory, healthcare, or clinical setting required
• 1-2 years Experience with specimen processing, laboratory equipment, and quality control procedures required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and medical terminology.
• Ability to operate basic laboratory equipment and perform routine maintenance tasks.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, ensuring timely completion of laboratory support tasks.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with laboratory staff, healthcare providers, and patients.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow safety protocols, HIPAA regulations, and laboratory compliance standards.
• Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) and electronic medical records (EMR).