Medical Laboratory Assistant | Patient-Focused Lab Support

Essentia Health; Brainerd (MN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Essentia Health seeks a Medical Laboratory Assistant - Office Assistant to join the General Lab team at St. Josephs Medical Center in Brainerd, MN. The role includes collecting and processing specimens, performing waived tests, and assisting patients and staff with professionalism.

Preferred candidates may have ASCP certification, phlebotomy experience, and familiarity with medical terminology and basic computer skills. 0.8 FTE, day shift, on-site with potential remote/hybrid options.

Qualifications

• Graduate from Medical Laboratory Assistant Program or complete internal MLA training within 1 year of hire.

Responsibilities

• Collect, label, process, and prepare patient specimens for testing or transport in accordance with established procedures.
• Perform waived laboratory testing while adhering to accreditation standards, state licensure requirements, and organizational policies.
• Greet and assist patients, providers, nursing staff, and other healthcare personnel in a professional and courteous manner.
• Answer and direct telephone calls and respond accurately to laboratory-related inquiries.
• Enter, verify, and maintain patient and specimen information in laboratory and electronic medical record systems.
• Order and process laboratory requisitions, including faxed and electronic orders.
• Maintain accurate records and support timely specimen tracking and result distribution.
• Prepare paperwork and documentation to support efficient laboratory workflow.
• Monitor and maintain laboratory supply inventory and work areas.
• Assist with patient scheduling, registration, and check-in as needed.
• Follow all safety, confidentiality, infection prevention, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with laboratory staff and healthcare teams to ensure accurate communication and timely service.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Medical terminology

Basic computer skills

Education

Medical Laboratory Assistant Program

ASCP certification (preferred)

Job description

Essentia Health seeks a Medical Laboratory Assistant - Office Assistant to join the General Lab team at St. Josephs Medical Center in Brainerd, MN. The role includes collecting and processing specimens, performing waived tests, and assisting patients and staff with professionalism.

Preferred candidates may have ASCP certification, phlebotomy experience, and familiarity with medical terminology and basic computer skills. 0.8 FTE, day shift, on-site with potential remote/hybrid options.