Phlebotomist

Phlebotomist

This Phlebotomist role focuses on performing high-quality blood draws and specimen collection while supporting a smooth laboratory workflow. You will collect, process, and store specimens according to established procedures, ensure accurate documentation, and assist with troubleshooting, training, and workflow improvement. The position requires working independently in a fast-paced environment, providing clear and courteous explanations to patients, and maintaining strict compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform blood draws using straight needles and butterfly needles, ensuring patient comfort and safety.
• Collect and store blood, urine, fecal, and other specimens according to established procedures and protocols.
• Clearly and courteously explain venipuncture and other specimen collection procedures to patients.
• Match laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes to ensure proper identification and accuracy.
• Label, centrifuge, split, freeze, and otherwise process specimens as required by specific test orders.
• Verify all test requisitions or computer-generated labels against the original order or script to ensure 100% accuracy.
• Package specimens for transport, following all required procedures to maintain specimen integrity.
• Store specimens at the required temperature and place samples in appropriate collection containers or tubes with accurate labeling.
• Follow protocol-specific procedures to maintain specimen integrity during handling and transport.
• Fully understand and interpret physicians' orders related to laboratory testing and specimen handling.
• Record maintenance data and perform decontamination tasks as required by laboratory procedures.
• Update patient information accurately in the appropriate systems and records.
• Answer telephone calls and communicate laboratory results as needed to satisfy inquiries, following applicable procedures.
• Participate in troubleshooting and make workflow recommendations to improve efficiency and quality.
• Assist in training and supporting team members on phlebotomy techniques and specimen handling processes.
• Attend annual department trainings and maintain up-to-date knowledge of procedures and regulations.
• Understand and comply with OSHA and DEP regulations and all applicable safety standards.
• Use Microsoft Office Suite and relevant software to support data entry, documentation, and communication.
• Handle pediatric through geriatric patient populations, adapting techniques and communication to each patient's needs.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of experience performing venipunctures in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to draw and process specimens independently.
• Proven experience performing blood draws on pediatric through geriatric patient populations.
• Proficiency in phlebotomy techniques, including venipuncture using straight needles and butterfly needles.
• Hands-on experience with specimen handling, including labeling, sample preparation, sample storage, and specimen management.
• Ability to collect and process blood, urine, fecal, and other patient specimens according to established protocols.
• Competence in operating a centrifuge and preparing blood and other biological samples for testing or storage.
• Strong attention to detail when matching requisition forms to specimen tubes and verifying test orders.
• Ability to accurately label, package, and store specimens to maintain integrity and meet test requirements.
• Understanding of OSHA and DEP regulations and ability to follow all applicable safety and compliance procedures.
• High School diploma and/or GED completion.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite for data entry, documentation, and communication tasks.
• Comfort working independently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and quality.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain procedures and respond to inquiries by phone and in person.
• Basic data entry skills and familiarity with laboratory or clinical information systems.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Phlebotomy certification is not required but any formal training in phlebotomy or medical assisting is beneficial.
• Experience working in a laboratory, blood bank, or biobank environment handling biological samples.
• Familiarity with specimen storage requirements and procedures for maintaining sample integrity.
• Experience with pediatric phlebotomy and adapting techniques for different age groups.
• Knowledge of Cerner or similar electronic health record or laboratory information systems.
• Experience in medical assisting or related clinical support roles.
• Ability to support troubleshooting and make recommendations to improve workflow and specimen management processes.
• Comfort reading and communicating laboratory results in response to inquiries, following established protocols.

Work Environment

This role supports both rover and stationary assignments. Rover shifts involve working at multiple locations, with mornings based in La Grange and afternoons at an additional site, requiring travel…