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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Lab Assistant II

Clinton, IA

The purpose of the Lab Assistant II position is to support a variety of laboratory departments by ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking ...

Boone County Hospital - Lab

Lab Assistant-PRN

Boone, IA · On-site

$17 - $21.70/hr

Receives and processes physician requests for testing * Properly identifies patients and ... specimen quality * Operates laboratory information system; performs computer data entry and other ...

Iowa Clinic

Lab Assistant - Full Time

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Collects, processes and stores patient samples as per protocol and safety guidelines. * Performs ... Obtains adequate blood specimens from patients using appropriate specimen collection and handling ...

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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:
Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Lab Assistant II

Lab Assistant II

Trinity Health

Clinton, IA

Full-time

Posted 2 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:Rotating ShiftDescription:

The purpose of the Lab Assistant II position is to support a variety of laboratory departments by assistingtechnical staff in the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests. The role ensuresspecimens, patient information, and workflows are handled accurately and efficiently. As a contributingmember of the team, this position supports departmental operations, assists peers, and helps meetworkflow needs to maintain timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safetystandards.

  • Knows, understands, incorporates, and demonstrates the Trinity Health and MercyOne Mission, Vision,and Values in behaviors, practices, and decisions.

  • Accepts specimens and requisitions from internal and external customers and manages addon ordersand pending lists in accordance with laboratory procedures.

  • Identifies patients and specimens using two unique patient identifiers and accurately labels specimencontainers to ensure correct identification.

  • Registers and logs specimens in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), evaluates specimenadequacy and acceptability, and scans required documentation into the patient record.

  • Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slidepreparation, special handling, and required documentation in accordance with laboratory protocols.

  • Assists in resolving problematic patient specimens and test orders in collaboration with laboratory staffand clients.

  • Follows safety, infection control, and chemicalhandling procedures and supports efficient workflowpractices that promote accurate testing, timely turnaround, and productivity expectations.

  • Operates laboratory information systems proficiently to support accurate data entry and workflowmanagement.

  • Supports inventory management, including stocking and ordering supplies as needed.

  • Serves as a preceptor for students and new hires and participates in competency assessments asapplicable.

  • Actively contributes to team engagement efforts and participates in department or hospital committeesand projects as assigned to support a collaborative and positive work environment.

  • Other duties as needed and assigned by laboratory leadership.

  • Maintains a working knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations, TrinityHealth's Organizational Integrity Program, Standards of Conduct, as well as other Trinity Health andMercyOne policies and procedures in order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest,ethical, and professional behavior.

General Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED required.

  • Has completed at least one (1) year of service in a MercyOne laboratory.

  • Has completed 3 hours of continuing education pertinent to laboratory sciences and annually thereafter.

  • If applicable to department assignment, must meet the following requirements:

  • Possess a valid driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle operated and be eligible todrive under Iowa state law.

  • Be at least 18 years of age.

  • Meet MercyOne's Quality and Authorized Drivers requirements.

  • Completion of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Mandatory Reporter training specific to the population served within three (3) months of hire.

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.

What Trinity Health employees say

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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

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