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Lab Phlebotomist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant

Decorah, IA · On-site

$16.42 - $24.63/hr

Lab Assistants are responsible for phlebotomy duties, collecting and handling laboratory specimens for outpatients and inpatients, and performing waived tests. Responsibilities also include ...

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Lab Phlebotomist information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do lab phlebotomist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab phlebotomist in Iowa is $17.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by lab phlebotomists, and how can they be managed?

Lab Phlebotomists often encounter challenges such as drawing blood from patients with difficult veins, managing anxious or uncooperative patients, and ensuring accurate labeling and handling of specimens under time constraints. Developing strong communication skills can help ease patient anxiety, while practicing proper technique and staying organized reduces the risk of errors. Regular training and teamwork with other laboratory staff also support a positive work environment and help phlebotomists stay current with best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab phlebotomist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Phlebotomist, you need training in venipuncture techniques, knowledge of specimen collection procedures, and typically a phlebotomy certification or completion of an accredited program. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), blood collection equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help build patient trust and ensure accuracy. These competencies are vital to ensure reliable test results, patient safety, and efficient laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Lab Phlebotomist vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab PhlebotomistMedical Laboratory Technician
CertificationsPhlebotomy certificationMedical Laboratory Technician certification (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, blood banksHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesCollect blood samples, prepare specimensAnalyze samples, perform tests, report results

While both roles work in laboratory settings, Lab Phlebotomists primarily focus on blood collection, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform detailed analysis and testing of various specimens. The certifications, work scope, and responsibilities differ, making each role unique within the healthcare industry.

What is a lab phlebotomist?

Lab phlebotomists are healthcare professionals who specialize in drawing blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, donations, or research. They are trained to collect blood samples safely and efficiently, ensuring patient comfort and accurate labeling for laboratory analysis. Phlebotomists also maintain equipment, follow strict hygiene protocols, and may interact with patients to explain procedures and alleviate any fears. Their role is essential in supporting the diagnostic and treatment processes within hospitals, clinics, and laboratories.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Phlebotomist jobs in Iowa? For Lab Phlebotomist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Lab Phlebotomist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,249 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Medical Assistant II/Phlebotomist-Laboratory

UnityPoint Health

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$17.02/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Medical Assistant II/Phlebotomist
UnityPoint Health - Allen
Shift: Full-time; 0.8 FTE; 830 AM - 5 PM, 11 AM - 730 PM, or 1230 PM - 9 PM. Every other weekend, holiday rotation and on call.
Benefits Eligible
The Medical Assistant II Phlebotomist, under the direction of the Manager-Compliance/ED Lab/Phlebotomy, is responsible for collection of blood samples through phlebotomy (blood collection) techniques, including vacutainer, syringe, winged infusion set and capillary collections. All phlebotomists are expected to assist with collections from outpatients, inpatients as well as stat nursing home patients and any other patient types supported by UnityPoint Health.
The Medical Assistant II Phlebotomist is also trained into the Laboratory Office to register, receive in specimens from reference clients and other general office duties. They also perform routine nursing home collection routes when working during the early morning hours.
Phlebotomists also assist in the collection of other specimens such as urines for analysis and urines for drug screens.
Phlebotomists should possess good clerical and computer skills to support the Laboratory department.
Why UnityPoint Health?
At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We're proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.
Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you're in. Here are just a few:
  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.
And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.
Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.
Responsibilities
  • Learn and understand basic techniques of phlebotomy and specimen collection.
  • Perform phlebotomy and specimen collection for inpatients, outpatients and nursing home patients
  • Learn and understand collection of urine drug screens for occupational and medical collections
  • Performs routine nursing home draw routes if scheduled in early AM hours
  • Assists technologists with duties including but not limited to stocking supplies, washing laboratory dishes, inventory management & follow up on reports
  • After competent, assist in training new staff in phlebotomy
  • Enters data and orders samples into Laboratory Information system
  • Registers, orders and receives in specimens from reference lab and nursing home clients
  • Navigates the Hospital Information system as required for patient care
  • Answers incoming phone calls

Qualifications
Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Licensure/Certification:
  • Valid driver's license

Other:
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English
  • Must possess basic computer skills and knowledge using word processing, spreadsheet, email and web browser
  • May require frequent travel to area nursing home facilities

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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Benefits

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995