Medical Assistant Apprentice

Telluride, CO; Colorado; On-site; USD 30,307 - 31,684; Full time

Job summary

TRMC is seeking a Medical Assistant Apprentice to participate in a structured training program combining online certification coursework with supervised on-the-job learning across Patient Access, Primary Care, Laboratory, and Emergency Department settings.

The role supports observation and hands-on practice, focusing on patient care activities, documentation, and administrative duties as competency is demonstrated and policy permits ongoing involvement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Strong interest in healthcare and patient care services.
• Ability to complete rotations and competency assessments.
• Willingness to work scheduled hours including evenings/weekends/seasonal staffing.

Responsibilities

• Complete online Medical Assistant certification coursework.
• Complete structured on-the-job learning experiences across departments.
• Observe and assist with patient access, primary care, laboratory and ED workflows.
• Maintain confidentiality and HIPAA compliance.
• Support clinical and administrative tasks as competency grows.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Basic computer skills

EHR familiarity

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Department: Clinical Operations

Effective Date: 2026

Reports To: PC Nurse Supervisor

Purpose

Under the supervision of licensed clinical staff, providers, department leaders, and assigned preceptors, the Medical Assistant Apprentice participates in a structured training program consisting of online Medical Assistant certification coursework and supervised on-the-job learning experiences. The apprentice will rotate through Patient Access, Primary Care, Laboratory, and Emergency Department settings to develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies required for a Medical Assistant role.

Summary of Position

The Medical Assistant Apprentice is an entry-level trainee position designed for individuals pursuing certification as a Medical Assistant. The apprentice will complete online coursework while gaining practical experience through departmental rotations. Responsibilities focus on observation, skill development, patient support, administrative functions, and progressively increasing participation in patient care activities as competency is demonstrated and permitted by policy.

Responsibilities

Patient Access

• Greets patients and visitors in a professional and welcoming manner.
• Learns patient registration, scheduling, insurance verification, and check-in/check-out procedures.
• Assists with maintaining accurate demographic and insurance information.
• Develops customer service and patient communication skills.
• Learns privacy, confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements.
• Supports administrative functions and office workflow.

Primary Care

• Observes and assists with patient intake procedures.
• Learns to obtain and document patient histories under supervision.
• Learns proper techniques for measuring and recording vital signs.
• Assists in preparing examination rooms and maintaining equipment and supplies.
• Supports providers and clinical staff during patient visits.
• Learns documentation standards and electronic health record workflows.
• Provides patient education materials as directed by clinical staff.

Laboratory

• Learns specimen collection, handling, and processing procedures.
• Observes and assists with point-of-care testing under supervision and within training guidelines.
• Participates in laboratory quality control and inventory processes.
• Learns infection prevention and laboratory safety standards.
• Develops an understanding of CLIA requirements and laboratory documentation.
• Assists with stocking and maintaining laboratory supplies.

Emergency Department

• Assists with patient flow and room preparation.
• Learns emergency department operations and triage support processes.
• Observes clinical procedures and patient care activities performed by licensed staff.
• Assists with equipment setup, cleaning, and stocking.
• Develops skills in communication during urgent and high-volume situations.
• Learns emergency preparedness and safety protocols.

General Responsibilities

• Successfully complete all assigned online Medical Assistant certification coursework and training requirements.
• Demonstrate professionalism, empathy, respect, and excellent customer service.
• Adhere to infection prevention, safety, and confidentiality standards.
• Participate in departmental meetings, educational activities, and training sessions.
• Maintain required documentation of training progress and competencies.
• Demonstrate initiative, accountability, and willingness to learn.
• Work collaboratively with patients, providers, and all members of the healthcare team.
• Assist in other departments as assigned to support operational needs.
• Manage work time effectively and maintain attendance standards.
• Perform duties consistent with apprentice training level and demonstrated competencies.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong desire to pursue a healthcare career.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with patients, families, and staff.
• Basic computer proficiency and ability to learn electronic health record systems.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated professionalism, compassion, patience, and reliability.
• Ability to learn and apply new concepts in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Strong interest in healthcare and patient care services.
• Ability to successfully complete all required departmental rotations and competency assessments.
• Ability to work scheduled hours, including occasional evenings, weekends, or seasonal staffing needs as required.

• Bilingual skills are preferred.

Work Environment / Physical Activities

• Clinical and office healthcare environments.
• Fast-paced setting with occasional high-pressure or emergent situations.
• Potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, and other healthcare-related hazards.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
• Occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds.
• Requires adherence to all safety, infection prevention, and occupational health requirements.

Position Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Pay Range: $22-$23 per hour

Note: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the job. Other ad hoc duties as assigned to ensure success of TRMC.