Laboratory Assistant II

Park Nicollet Methodist is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to provide a wide range of laboratory services and support.

About the role

The Lab Assistant will perform specimen collection, client service and reception desk duties, ordering/scheduling/billing functions, laboratory testing, phlebotomy, dispatching, specimen processing, centrifuging, and delivery of specimens to appropriate labs or departments. This role ensures proper efficiency and workflow management while serving as a resource for hospital and clinic staff regarding specimen handling and processing.

Lab Assistant II roles will additionally act as mentors, training and developing new staff and students in phlebotomy, specimen processing, and client services. Mentors must maintain competency, demonstrate leadership, and serve as a resource for new employees and rotating students.

Responsibilities

• Model and promote Head + Heart, Together behaviors.
• Provide feedback to staff and managers, including recognition and correction.
• Serve as a customer liaison and champion for the Laboratory.
• Communicate effectively with lab teams via email, huddles, rounding, and meetings.
• Interact daily with Supervisors and Team Leads to report issues involving Lab Assistants and customers.
• Complete all assigned mandatory training and Laboratory-specific competency testing.
• Participate in performance appraisals using the automated electronic system.
• Perform phlebotomy, specimen processing, and client service duties.
• Drive to patient or client locations as necessary (valid driver’s license required).
• Act as a primary trainer and competency assessor for new staff and students (Lab Assistant II).
• Encourage cooperation between lab departments and maintain a strong work ethic in a team-based environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Strong customer service skills and ability to work independently.
• Good problem-solving skills and knowledge of age-related growth and development principles.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet time-sensitive requests and adapt to changes on short notice.
• Compliance with safety instructions and safe work practices.
• Regular and timely attendance.
• Protection of confidentiality and participation in the Corporate Integrity Program.
• Timely completion of all mandatory education and organizational requirements (e.g., licensure, certifications, training).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a medical-related field or an applied science degree.
• One year of hospital experience.
• ASCP certification for phlebotomy.

Skills

• Direct patient contact and effective communication with patients, families, and team members.
• Culturally responsive care and anticipation of patient needs.
• Leadership and mentorship (Lab Assistant II).

Physical Demands

• Standing: Occasional (1-33% of the time).
• Walking: Frequent (34-66% of the time).
• Sitting: Occasional (1-33% of the time).
• Squatting: Rare (1-5% of the time).
• Reaching: Frequent (34-66% of the time).
• Lifting/Carrying: Light work (exerting up to 20 pounds occasionally and up to 10 pounds frequently).
• Pushing/Pulling: Frequent (34-66% of the time).
• Handling/Fingering: Frequent (34-66% of the time, includes typing and computer work).

Hazards and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Sharp objects (e.g., box cutters, knives): Use cut-resistant gloves and safety tools; cut away from the body.
• Liquid chemicals, acids, or caustics: Use approved products, labeled containers, and MSDS guidelines; wear goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, aprons, lab coats, and closed-toe shoes.
• Extreme heat (e.g., autoclaves) or cold (e.g., liquid nitrogen): Use heat-resistant or cryogenic gloves, goggles, and face shields; follow training protocols.
• Driving or riding in vehicles: No texting while driving; refrain from cell phone use; wear seat belts.
• Wet or slippery conditions: Use slip-resistant shoes or rubber boots; mop excess water and place warning signs.
• Hazardous drugs (e.g., chemotherapy agents): Use biological cabinets, spill procedures, and appropriate PPE (gloves, disposable gowns, goggles, N95/PAPR for spills).
• Medical/surgical procedures (e.g., lasers, cautery): Receive laser training; use ventilation hoods and appropriate PPE to avoid burns or smoke inhalation.

Organizational Expectations

• Values: Excellence, Compassion, Partnership, and Integrity.
• Compliance with safety instructions and safe work practices.
• Regular and timely attendance.
• Protection of confidentiality and participation in the Corporate Integrity Program.
• Timely completion of all mandatory education and organizational requirements.