Lead Phlebotomist/Lab Aid

Mountain View Regional; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Mountain View Regional in Las Cruces, NM is seeking a Lab Assistant to support routine laboratory operations, perform phlebotomy, specimen processing, and quality control under supervision. You will maintain safety, document procedures in LIS/EMR, and collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure accurate labeling and timely patient care.

The ideal candidate has a phlebotomy or lab assistant program and 1–2 years of experience in a clinical setting, with strong attention to detail and HIPAA

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Assists laboratory staff in performing routine tests following proper laboratory protocols.
• Prepares and processes specimens with proper labeling, storage, and transport.
• Maintains laboratory equipment and reports malfunctions.
• Performs finger sticks, venipunctures and heel sticks on patients of all ages.
• Ensures safety, infection control, and HIPAA compliance in all tasks.
• Logs lab procedures and specimen information into LIS/EMR with accuracy.
• Performs quality control and quality assurance tasks and supports regulatory compliance.
• Stocks laboratory supplies and maintains inventory.
• Cleans and disinfects work surfaces and spaces.
• Contributes to data collection and process improvement projects.
• Collaborates with healthcare providers and departments to optimize workflow.

Skills

Basic lab procedures

Phlebotomy

HIPAA compliance

Education

Phlebotomy/lab assistant program

HS Diploma or GED

Tools

Lab equipment

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).