Microbiology Lab Assistant: Split-shift

Community Health Systems, Inc.; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 22,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Health Systems, Inc. in Fort Wayne, IN is seeking a Lab Aide to support laboratory operations. The role involves phlebotomy, specimen preparation, data entry, and ensuring proper labeling and handling of specimens in accordance with CAP, CLIA, and safety standards.

The ideal candidate will have phlebotomy training and up to 2 years of lab experience, with strong attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to work in a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Phlebotomy training completed or equivalent.
• 0–2 years lab/phlebotomy experience preferred.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions with accuracy.
• Familiarity with medical terminology.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Performs venipuncture and other collection procedures.
• Identifies patients and labels specimens correctly.
• Records collection data into the LIS with accuracy.
• Retrieves and verifies patient and specimen information in LIS.
• Maintains clean, organized collection areas and follows safety standards.
• Supports off-site collections as needed.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Attention to detail

Data entry

HIPAA

Patient communication

Medical terminology

Education

Phlebotomy training

Tools

LIS

Job description

Job Summary

The Lab Aide 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 Aide contributes to timely and efficient patient care by maintaining clear communication and operational support within the lab.

Essential Functions

• Performs venipuncture, finger stick, and heel stick procedures on patients of all ages in accordance with laboratory policies and safety standards.
• Accurately identifies patients and labels specimens at the bedside or collection site to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and minimize specimen errors.
• Records phlebotomy collection information, including collection and receipt times, into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) with accuracy.
• Retrieves, enters, and verifies patient and specimen information in the laboratory information system (LIS); assists with data entry and troubleshooting.
• Monitors and resolves collection lists, pending reports, and discrepancies in specimen status in coordination with clinical staff.
• Collects chain of custody urine drug screens following established protocols for pre-employment, post-accident, and for-cause testing; completes required documentation.
• Collaborates with team members and willingly assists in completing daily tasks and departmental duties to support smooth workflow.
• Complies with infection control, HIPAA, and laboratory safety standards, including appropriate disposal of supplies and maintenance of a clean work area.
• Maintains phlebotomy carts and collection areas in a clean, organized, and fully stocked condition to ensure readiness for all patient encounters.
• Adheres to patient identification policies, labeling protocols, and specimen handling guidelines to meet CAP, CLIA, and organizational standards.
• Demonstrates flexibility by adapting to schedule changes and supporting off-site collections as assigned.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Technical School completion of a formal phlebotomy training program or equivalent coursework preferred
• 0-2 years of laboratory or phlebotomy experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of specimen collection techniques and laboratory protocols.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions with attention to detail.
• Familiarity with medical terminology and basic laboratory equipment.
• Effective communication and customer service skills.
• Basic computer proficiency and data entry skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to compliance and safety standards.

Licenses and Certifications

• BLS - Basic Life Support required

Equal Employment Opportunity

This organization does not discriminate in any way to deprive any person of employment opportunities or otherwise adversely affect the status of any employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, or military or uniformed services, in accordance with all applicable governmental laws and regulations. In addition, the facility complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to: hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. If you are an applicant with a mental or physical disability who needs a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, contact the director of Human Resources at the facility to which you are seeking employment; Simply go to http://www.chs.net/serving-communities/locations/ to obtain the main telephone number of the facility and ask for Human Resources.