Phlebotomist Per Diem
About the role
Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology, to help millions of people live healthier lives. The Phlebotomist Per Diem works under general supervision to perform a wide range of laboratory duties, including specimen collection, waived and moderate testing (including microscopy), and electrocardiograms (EKGs). The role requires a strong background in phlebotomy, laboratory procedures, and patient care, with excellent attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills. The Senior Phlebotomist will work independently and as part of a team to ensure high‑quality patient care.
Primary Responsibilities
- Collect blood specimens from patients using venipuncture and capillary puncture techniques promptly.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work environment.
- Process and prepare specimens for testing and transport.
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to specimen collection, testing, and equipment.
- Give proper patient collection instructions (e.g., urine, stool) and instruct patients in post‑phlebotomy care.
- Properly dispose of bio‑hazardous and sharps materials.
- Obtain specimens for microbiology testing.
- Perform electrocardiograms (EKGs) and other miscellaneous services.
- Order sufficient supplies, rotate stock, and prevent use of outdated supplies.
- Follow venipuncture and processing standard of work (SOW), including positive identification of all patient specimens.
- Perform waived and moderate‑complexity laboratory testing, including microscopy.
- Maintain accurate records of patient information, test results, and laboratory procedures.
- Perform quality control, calibration, and proficiency testing to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
- Participate in quality assurance activities and competency assessments.
- Follow Optum Clinic lab procedures, guidelines, and the Calling Critical Value policy.
- Interact with patients and healthcare providers in a professional and compassionate manner.
- Register patients according to reception SOW, locate missing lab orders/specimens, and use competent phone skills.
- Promote a positive and productive work environment, acting maturely, responsibly, and courteously toward colleagues, physicians, and patients.
- Integrate Lean principles to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.
- Complete all required compliance training (HIPAA, privacy, non‑discrimination, harassment, integrity, etc.) and maintain confidentiality of patient information.
- Attend training to meet job requirements and comply with occupational safety, OSHA, L&I, and other regulations.
- Maintain regular and predictable attendance and perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- High School Diploma/GED.
- Medical Assistant‑Phlebotomist (MA‑Pbt) certification from the state of Washington to perform capillary and venous invasive procedures under supervision.
- Completion of a Phlebotomy Certificate program through an accredited school.
- BLS (AHA) certification (or obtain within 30 days of employment).
- 1+ years of experience with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- 1+ years of computer proficiency with Microsoft Office and solid overall computer skills.
- Reliable transportation and ability to travel 100 % to other Optum draw locations.
- Ability to work one day per week, not to exceed 960 hours per year.
- Physical ability to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects (occasionally up to 50 lb; regularly up to 24 lb).
- Ability to abide by Optum/UHG code of conduct.
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of blood‑draw experience.
- Knowledge of laboratory information systems and electronic medical records.
- Documented training covering all elements of CLIA regulation 42 CFR 493.1423.
- Experience performing EKGs and accurately interpreting acceptable readings.
- Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and laboratory testing procedures.
- Strong organizational, time‑management, and multitasking skills.
- Proven ability to maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work environment and troubleshoot specimen‑related issues.
- Experience working with diverse patient populations (infants to geriatric patients).
- Thorough understanding of phlebotomy techniques, safety protocols, and waived laboratory testing.
- Familiarity with EKG procedures and acceptable results.
- Attention to detail, accuracy, and understanding of HIPAA compliance.
- Soft skills: independent judgment, accountability, ability to work on small or large teams, strong communication, and ability to work well under pressure.
Benefits
- Competitive base pay.
- Full and comprehensive benefits program.
- Performance rewards and recognition programs.
- Paid Time Off that accrues from the first pay period.
- Eight paid holidays.
- Medical plan options with Health Spending Account or Health Savings Account.
- Dental, vision, life & AD&D insurance.
- Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage.
- 401(k) savings plan and employee stock purchase plan.
- Education reimbursement.
- Employee discounts.
- Employee assistance program.
- Employee referral bonus program.
- Voluntary benefits (pet insurance, legal insurance, long‑term care insurance, etc.).
Schedule
Office is open seven days a week, 365 days a year. The position requires a minimum of one day per week, not to exceed 960 hours per year, with work hours between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. PST, Monday through Sunday. Final schedule will be determined by the manager upon hire.
Location
Main laboratory office: 904 7th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104.
Travel required to all Optum Draw Satellite locations, including:
- Optum‑Madison – 904 7th Ave., (Second Floor Laboratory), Seattle, WA 98104 (main office).
- Optum‑Ballard – 1448 NW Market St., Ste. 200, Seattle, WA 9810X.
- Optum‑Northgate Plaza – 9709 3rd Ave. NE, Seattle, WA 98115.
Physical Demands
- Frequent standing, walking, and intermittent breaks for long periods.
- Ability to run during an emergency.
- Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle tools, controls, and medical/office equipment.
- Repetitive movements and quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
- Clear speech and ability to understand spoken communication.
- Auditory acuity to recognize sounds.
- Visual acuity for near and far detail, color differentiation, and distance judgment.
- Occasional prolonged sitting for telephone or computer use.
- Occasional lifting of up to 50 lb and carrying up to 24 lb; regular lifting/pushing/pulling of heavy objects.
- Ability to bend, stretch, stoop, twist, squat, kneel, crawl, grasp, and reach.
- Coordination of multiple limbs while moving.
- Proper body mechanics to sustain long periods of activity without fatigue.
- Ability to maintain balance and stay upright in unstable positions.
Working Conditions
The role involves frequent exposure to communicable/infectious diseases, toxic substances, ionizing radiation, medicinal preparations, and other conditions typical of a clinical environment. Interaction with others is busy, constant, and occasionally interruptive. Office noise levels are usually quiet, though work may be demanding and require irregular hours. Pay is based on local labor markets, education, experience, certifications, and other factors; additional benefits are provided as listed above.