Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Employment Type:Full timeShift:Evening ShiftDescription:At MercyOne, health care is more than just a doctor's visit or a place to go when you need 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 Central Iowa sets the standard for personalized and radically convenient care in the Des Moines metro area and surrounding counties. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1893, is the longest continually operating hospital in Des Moines and Iowa's largest medical center, with 802 beds available. The hospital is one of the Midwest's largest referral centers.
With more than 7,000 colleagues and a medical staff of almost 1,500 physicians and allied health professionals, MercyOne Central Iowa is one of Iowa's largest employers.

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 addon 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 chemicalhandling 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:

• Monday - Friday 1230 - 2100

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's circle of care.

Want to learn more about MercyOne Des Moines? Click here: Find a Location Des Moines, Iowa (IA), MercyOne Des Moines

Des Moines

Iowa's capital city offers a balanced urban-suburban experience with a cost of living below the national average. It's ranked among the top safest large metros and boasts strong education options, including highly rated public schools, private academies and nearby universities like Drake University and Grand View University. Cultural highlights include theaters, museums, music festivals and a thriving food scene, while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy extensive parks and bike trails. Located just minutes from the airport, Des Moines offers easy access to regional attractions and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere.

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center is a leading 656-bed acutecare, notforprofit Catholic hospital and one of Iowa's largest employers. Founded in 1893, it's the longest continuously operating hospital in Des Moines. Accredited as a Top Regional Hospital by U.S. News & World Report, named one of Becker's 100 Great Hospitals, and ranked among the top 50 cardiovascular hospitals by IBM Watson Health. With Joint Commission Gold Seal accreditation, stroke and heart care awards, CAP-accredited lab and ACS-certified Cancer Center, this flagship facility offers comprehensive services including robotic surgery, cancer care, neurosciences, rehab, emergency/trauma, maternity, behavioral health and a robust nursing excellence program.

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.