Medical Laboratory Assistant - Processing

Essentia Health; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 27,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision, life and disa

401(k) with employer contributions

Tuition reimbursement

Flexible scheduling

Generous time off

Wellness resources

Job summary

Essentia Health is seeking a Medical Laboratory Assistant to support pre-analytic and post-analytic functions in the Laboratories at St Marys Medical Center, Building B. The MLA will collect specimens, process samples, and perform waived testing while ensuring patient safety and quality.

The role includes training responsibilities and adherence to accreditation standards. Shifts include Day/Eve rotation with weekends and holidays, in a general lab department (2992010 GENERAL LAB - IL).

Qualifications

• Must have completed a Medical Laboratory Assistant program or internal MLA training within 12 months of hire.
• ASCP certification preferred in selected cases.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and basic computer skills required.
• Phlebotomy experience or certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Collects specimens via venipuncture or capillary puncture and other specimens.
• Prepares and processes specimens according to testing requirements.
• Performs laboratory testing per accreditation and licensure standards.
• Assists in training new staff, students, and other personnel as appropriate.
• Adheres to Essentia Health safety rules and policies.

Skills

Phlebotomy

ASCP certification

Medical terminology

Basic computer skills

Recent specimen preparation

Valid driver’s license

Education

Graduate from Medical Laboratory Assistant Program

Internal MLA training within 1 year of hire

Job description

Job Description

The Medical Laboratory Assistant is responsible for performing tasks to support pre‑analytical and post‑analytical functions within Essentia Health Laboratories. The MLA will promote patient safety while performing specimen collection and processing. This position will also perform waived lab testing following standards of accreditation agencies and state licensure requirements.

Building Location:

Building B - St Marys Medical Center

Department

2992010 GENERAL LAB - IL

Education Qualifications

Key Responsibilities:

• Collects specimens through venipuncture or capillary skin puncture and other miscellaneous specimens (Urine, swabs, etc.)
• Performs specimen processing and handling according to testing requirements to support clinical laboratory testing
• Performs laboratory testing, when applicable, per accreditation and licensure requirements
• Participates in training of new employees, students, and other personnel as appropriate
• Follows Essentia Health rules and policies while handling specimens and equipment to ensure safety and quality

Educational Requirements

• Graduate from Medical Laboratory Assistant Program

OR

• Completes an internal Medical Laboratory Assistant training program within 1 year of hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Phlebotomy or Medical Laboratory Assistant American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification
• Recent specimen preparation and processing experience
• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operators’ license
• Knowledge of medical terminology and basic computer skills

Licensure/Certification Qualifications:

0

Shift Rotation:

Day/Eve Rotation (United States of America)

Shift Start Time

Day/Evening Rotation

Shift End Time

Day/Evening Rotation

Weekends

Yes

Holidays

Yes

Call Obligation

No

Union

USWA Technical Workers SMMC (UTECH)07/2/2026

Compensation Range

$19.57 - $29.02

Employee Benefits at Essentia Health: At Essentia Health, we’re committed to supporting your well-being, growth, and work-life balance. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with supplemental options to fit your needs. We offer a 401(k) plan with employer contributions to help you plan for the future, and we invest in your professional development through training, tuition reimbursement, and educational programs. To help you thrive both at work and at home, we provide flexible scheduling, generous time off, and wellness resources focused on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Please note that benefit eligibility may vary. For full details, refer to your benefit summary or contact our HR Service Center at [phone].