Medical Laboratory Assistant - Processing

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

Job summary

Essentia Health is seeking a Medical Laboratory Assistant to support pre-analytical and post-analytical functions in the General Lab at St Marys Medical Center. The role focuses on specimen collection, processing, testing, and ensuring safety and quality in the laboratory workflow.

The candidate will perform waived lab testing under accreditation and licensure guidelines and participate in training programs for new staff as required.

Qualifications

• Phlebotomy experience and specimen collection knowledge.
• Familiarity with processing and handling specimens per testing requirements.
• Understanding of accreditation and licensure requirements for lab testing.

Responsibilities

• Collect specimens via venipuncture or capillary puncture and other specimens.
• Process and handle specimens according to testing requirements to support clinical testing.
• Perform laboratory testing in compliance with accreditation and licensure rules.
• Assist in training new staff, students, and other personnel as appropriate.
• Follow Essentia Health safety rules to ensure specimen and equipment safety.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Specimen collection

Medical terminology

Basic computer skills

Driver's license

Education

ASCP certification

Medical Laboratory Assistant Program graduate

Internal MLA training within 1 year

Job description

Building Location:

Building B - St Marys Medical Center

Department:

2992010 GENERAL LAB - IL

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.

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:

FTE:

0

Possible Remote/Hybrid Option:

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)

Union Posting Deadline:

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].