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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist PRN

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist PRN

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist PRN

Mason City, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

What are some common challenges Lab Assistant Specimen Processors face, and how can they be managed?

Lab Assistant Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as handling a high volume of specimens during peak hours while maintaining accuracy and adhering to strict protocols. Managing time efficiently, staying organized, and double-checking labels can help minimize errors. Effective communication with laboratory technologists and phlebotomists is also essential for resolving discrepancies quickly. Adapting to new laboratory information systems and staying updated on safety procedures can further support success in this role.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant Specimen Processor vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Assistant Specimen ProcessorLab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training providedAssociate degree or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentProcessing specimens in clinical or hospital labsPerforming tests and analyzing samples in laboratory settings
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsMedical laboratories, research facilities, hospitals

The Lab Assistant Specimen Processor primarily handles specimen preparation and processing, focusing on sample labeling and organization. In contrast, Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in laboratory workflows, but Lab Technicians typically require more advanced education and skills.

What are Lab Assistant Specimen Processors?

Lab Assistant Specimen Processors are healthcare professionals responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological specimens—such as blood, urine, or tissue—for laboratory testing. They play a vital role in ensuring that samples are properly handled and documented to maintain accuracy and prevent contamination. Their duties often include data entry, operating laboratory equipment, and adhering to strict safety and confidentiality protocols. This role is essential for supporting laboratory scientists and ensuring timely and accurate diagnostic testing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Assistant Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Assistant Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring phlebotomy certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and safe specimen handling protocols is usually required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you excel in managing high-volume tasks and ensuring accurate sample processing. These competencies are crucial to maintain specimen integrity, minimize errors, and support efficient laboratory operations.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa? For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 5% As Needed, 42% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 44% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Lab Assistant FT Days

Lab Assistant FT Days

Trinity Health

Mason City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Trinity Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

592nd of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:
Full timeShift:
Day Shift
Description:
At MercyOne, health care is more than just a doctor's visit or a place to go when you're in need of medical attention. Our Mission is based on improving the health of our communities - that means not only when you are sick but keeping you well.
MercyOne North Iowa is the largest provider of health care services in our region, and we are proudly the largest employer in Cerro Gordo County. Our hospital is a private, not-for-profit health care center, licensed for 346 beds, which serves more than 400,000 inpatients and outpatients each year. In addition, MercyOne North Iowa is a teaching institution. We conduct a Family Medicine Residency, Internal Medicine Residency, Cardiology Fellowship, Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship, PGY1 Pharmacy Residency and a School of Radiologic Technology. MercyOne North Iowa is a clinical training site for approximately 500 students from 127 different colleges enrolled in programs for medical laboratory, nursing, paramedic, rehabilitation, medical assistants, pastoral services, physicians and many other medical fields.
Join the MercyOne Family! We are looking to hire a Lab Assistant.
As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting technical staff in the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests necessary for patient diagnosis and treatment. The role requires the skills needed to ensure specimens, patient information, and testing workflows are handled accurately and efficiently. By contributing to reliable test processes and smooth laboratory operations, this position helps maintain timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safety standards.
  • Performs venipunctures, finger sticks, and heel sticks appropriate to patient age (neonates through geriatric adults) and ensures proper specimen collection according to laboratory policy.
  • Accepts specimens and requisitions from internal and external customers and manages add-on orders and pending lists in accordance with laboratory procedures.
  • Identifies patients and specimens using two unique patient identifiers and accurately labels specimen containers to ensure correct identification.
  • Registers and logs specimens in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), evaluates specimen adequacy and acceptability, and scans required documentation into the patient record.
  • Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide preparation, special handling, and required documentation in accordance with laboratory protocols.
  • Assists in resolving problematic patient specimens and test orders in collaboration with laboratory staff and clients.
  • Follows safety, infection control, and chemical-handling procedures and supports efficient workflow practices that promote accurate testing, timely turnaround, and productivity expectations.
  • Operates laboratory information systems proficiently to support accurate data entry and workflow management.
  • Contributes to general laboratory operations by restocking supplies, participating in peer teaching, and engaging in department or hospital committees and projects as assigned.

Schedule:
  • 7:00 am - 3:30 pm M-F.

General Requirements:
  • Laboratory experience and knowledge of medical terminology preferred.
  • Strong computer skills with the ability to learn new systems and tools quickly.
  • Must be comfortable operating in a collaborative, shared leadership environment.
  • Must possess a personal presence that is characterized by a sense of honesty, integrity, and caring, with the ability to inspire and motivate others to promote the philosophy, mission, vision, goals, and values of Trinity Health and MercyOne.

Education:
  • High school diploma or GED required.

Colleagues of MercyOne Health System enjoy competitive compensation with a full benefits package and opportunity for growth throughout the system!
Visit MercyOne Careers to learn more about the benefits, culture, and career development opportunities available to you at MercyOne Health System circle of care.
Our Commitment
Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US