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Entry Level Phlebotomist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Medical Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

The selected candidate shall provide medical administrative and entry level health care support and ... phlebotomy. * The MA shall practice safety, environmental, and/or infection control methods. * The ...

Medical Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

The selected candidate shall provide medical administrative and entry level health care support and ... phlebotomy. * The MA shall practice safety, environmental, and/or infection control methods. * The ...

Entry Level Phlebotomist information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do entry level phlebotomist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level phlebotomist in Rio Rancho, NM is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is phlebotomy a good entry-level job?

Phlebotomy is a common entry-level healthcare position that involves drawing blood for tests, donations, or research. It typically requires a certification, good manual dexterity, and the ability to work in clinical environments, making it a viable starting point in healthcare careers.

How to get your first job as a phlebotomist?

To get your first job as a phlebotomist, complete a state-approved phlebotomy training program and obtain certification from a recognized organization such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology or the National Phlebotomy Association. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or externships and developing strong patient communication skills can improve employment prospects in healthcare settings.

What are entry level phlebotomists?

Entry level phlebotomists are healthcare professionals who are trained to draw blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, donations, or research. They typically work under supervision in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, or blood donation centers. Entry level phlebotomists are responsible for properly identifying patients, preparing them for blood collection, and ensuring samples are correctly labeled and handled. They also maintain cleanliness, follow safety protocols, and provide a reassuring presence for patients who may be nervous about blood draws.

What is the difference between Entry Level Phlebotomist vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level PhlebotomistMedical Laboratory Technician
CertificationsPhlebotomy certification often requiredMedical Laboratory Technician certification preferred or required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, blood donation centersLaboratories, hospitals, diagnostic centers
Job ResponsibilitiesDrawing blood, patient interactionAnalyzing samples, preparing specimens, operating lab equipment
EducationHigh school diploma, phlebotomy trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology

While both roles work in healthcare settings and involve handling biological samples, Entry Level Phlebotomists primarily focus on blood collection and patient interaction, requiring phlebotomy certification. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex lab analyses and typically hold an associate degree, with broader responsibilities in sample processing and testing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Phlebotomist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Phlebotomist, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a phlebotomy training program, and knowledge of blood collection techniques. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen labeling protocols, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication, and a calm bedside manner are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications and skills are crucial for ensuring accurate specimen collection, patient comfort, and maintaining laboratory safety standards.

Is phlebotomist a dead-end job?

A phlebotomist is an entry-level healthcare professional responsible for drawing blood for tests, transfusions, or donations. The role offers opportunities for advancement into supervisory, training, or specialized positions, and gaining experience can lead to further healthcare careers such as medical assisting or laboratory technician roles.

What challenges might an entry level phlebotomist face when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level phlebotomists often face challenges such as nervousness when drawing blood from patients, managing high patient volumes, and adapting to various work environments like hospitals, clinics, or laboratories. To overcome these challenges, new phlebotomists benefit from practicing proper techniques, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, and developing strong communication skills to put patients at ease. Additionally, staying organized and maintaining a positive attitude helps in handling the fast-paced nature of the job and building confidence over time.

How easy is it to get hired as a phlebotomist?

Entry level phlebotomist positions are generally accessible to those with a high school diploma or equivalent and certification from a recognized program. Job availability can vary by location and healthcare demand, but many employers seek candidates with good communication skills and the ability to handle blood collection procedures efficiently.

What Does an Entry-Level Phlebotomist Do?

As an entry-level phlebotomist, your duties require you to draw blood from donors or patients. You may draw blood for tests, transfusions, or simply as a donation for a blood bank. In addition to drawing blood, your other responsibilities are to talk with the patients or donors to keep them calm, prepare samples to send off to a lab, and record patient information in a medical database or the patient’s medical history. You are also responsible for following safety and health procedures, such as ensuring equipment is sterilized and properly disposing of used needles and other materials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Phlebotomist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Phlebotomist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
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What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Entry Level Phlebotomist jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Entry Level Phlebotomist job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Phlebotomist job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,528 per year, or $18 per hour.
Patient Care Tech / PCT Post Surgical Med Surg

Patient Care Tech / PCT Post Surgical Med Surg

Lovelace Health System

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Lovelace Health System rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

Join our team as a day shift, PRN, Medical Surgical- 8th Floor Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Albuquerque, NM. 

Why Join Us? 

Thrive in a People-First Environment and Make Healthcare Better 

  • Thrive: We empower our team with career growth opportunities and resources that support your wellness, education, and financial well-being. 
  • People-First: We prioritize your well-being with a supportive, inclusive culture where you are valued and cared for. 
  • Make Healthcare Better: We use advanced technology to support our team and enhance patient care. 

Get to Know Your Team: 

  • Lovelace Medical Center is an acute care hospital with 263 licensed beds, providing comprehensive care, including around-the-clock emergency care, surgical services, non-invasive robotic spine surgery, stroke care, radiology, and oncology services.

Learn About a Day in the Life of a PCT:


Responsibilities
  • Works in an entry-level position providing basic patient care under the direction of nursing and medical staff.
  • Assists patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and other ADLs.
  • Observes patients’ progress to prepare and disseminate reports to the Registered Nurse or other medical staff.
  • Obtains and records patients' vital signs and collects specimens for lab tests.
  • Provides basic patient transport and housekeeping duties.

Qualifications

Job Requirements: 

  • High School or GED.
  • BLS certification must be obtained within 14 days of hire or transfer into the role and prior to providing direct patient care.

Preferred Job Requirements:  

  • Experience in Phlebotomy or completion of a Phlebotomy course.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology.
  • 1 year of experience in acute or long-term care.
  • Working towards approved CNA, PCT, or paramedic (EMT-P) certification.
Qualifications:

Job Requirements: 

  • High School or GED.
  • BLS certification must be obtained within 14 days of hire or transfer into the role and prior to providing direct patient care.

Preferred Job Requirements:  

  • Experience in Phlebotomy or completion of a Phlebotomy course.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology.
  • 1 year of experience in acute or long-term care.
  • Working towards approved CNA, PCT, or paramedic (EMT-P) certification.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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