Medical Laboratory Technician

About the role

This role provides hands-on support to a clinical laboratory by performing tests classified under CLIA-88, collecting and processing specimens, and assisting with phlebotomy.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory tests classified under CLIA-88 in accordance with established protocols and quality standards.
• Draw blood from patients using proper phlebotomy techniques and ensure patient comfort and safety during specimen collection.
• Collect, label, and process a variety of clinical specimens accurately and efficiently.
• Use microscopes to interpret and analyze specimens, documenting findings clearly and precisely.
• Follow all laboratory procedures and safety guidelines to maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work area.
• Verify specimen integrity and suitability for testing, and take appropriate action when issues arise.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, reporting malfunctions or irregularities promptly.
• Document test results accurately in the laboratory information system and communicate critical findings as required.
• Collaborate with clinical and laboratory staff to prioritize workloads and ensure timely completion of testing.
• Participate in ongoing quality control and quality assurance activities to support regulatory compliance.
• Support continuous improvement efforts by following updated procedures and contributing feedback on workflow and processes.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrated ability to perform medical laboratory and clinical testing in accordance with CLIA-88 requirements.
• Proficiency in phlebotomy, including drawing blood safely and efficiently from diverse patient populations.
• Skill in specimen collection, handling, labeling, and processing for a variety of laboratory tests.
• Competence in microscope use and interpretation of microscopic findings.
• Medical laboratory or lab technician experience; one year of lab experience preferred.
• MLT certification or Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) with laboratory experience.
• Associate degree in medical laboratory technology and/or completion of a recognized course of study in Clinical Laboratory Technology.
• Certification, or eligibility for certification, as MLT (ASCP) or an equivalent credential.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain accuracy and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize workload.
• Effective communication skills to work collaboratively with clinical and laboratory staff.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Eligibility for MLT (ASCP) or equivalent certification if not already certified.
• Prior experience working in a clinical laboratory within a multi-specialty clinic or similar healthcare setting.
• Comfort working with patients during blood draws and specimen collection.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Willingness to work varied shifts, including weekends, as needed to support patient care.

Work Environment

This position is based in a clinical laboratory environment within a multi-specialty clinic. There is a weekend opening at the Ames main location with hours on Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Sunday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Additional openings are available at the Marshalltown clinic and the Story City clinic, which follow a more standard first-shift schedule, Monday through Friday. A shift differential applies for hours worked past 5:00 p.m. and for weekend work.

The role involves regular use of laboratory instruments and microscopes, handling of clinical specimens, and adherence to strict safety and infection control procedures in a professional healthcare setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ames, IA.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00/hr.

Requirements

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.