Lab Support Services Tech at Parkview Health in Columbia City, IN

Lab Support Services Tech

Location: Columbia City, IN, United States

Join the Parkview Health Lab Team

Eligible for a $2,000 Sign-On Bonus

Due to the comprehensive training required for this role, seasonal or short-term employment is not offered.

The Lab Support Services Technician supports laboratory operations by performing blood collection, specimen collection, and specimen processing for patients of all ages. This role ensures specimens are accurately collected, identified, processed, and delivered for testing while maintaining the highest standards of patient care, safety, and regulatory compliance.

This position works closely with nursing staff, providers, laboratory personnel, couriers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure timely and accurate laboratory services.

Key Responsibilities

Phlebotomy & Specimen Collection

• Performs blood collection on all patient populations using a variety of procedures.
• Utilizes positive patient identification devices to monitor new orders and pending draws.
• Applies critical thinking and problem-solving skills when performing difficult collections or identifying alternative procedures.
• Collects additional specimens as required, including but not limited to sputum and fecal specimens, in accordance with established protocols.
• Interacts compassionately with patients, families, and healthcare staff to support patient care needs.

Specimen Processing

• Receives, accession, processes, and distributes laboratory specimens for testing.
• Ensures specimens are properly identified, labeled, prepared, and routed according to laboratory requirements.
• Utilizes laboratory information systems to track incoming specimens and monitor workflow.
• Identifies and resolves specimen discrepancies or integrity issues such as labeling errors, insufficient volume, or improper collection.
• Coordinates with laboratory staff, couriers, and clinical teams to resolve specimen-related issues and ensure timely testing.

Additional Duties

• Performs urine drug screen collections and breathalyzer testing after completing required certification training.
• Maintains accurate documentation and follows all laboratory protocols.
• Adheres to all local, state, and federal regulations, accreditation standards, and organizational policies to ensure patient safety and confidentiality.

Skills & Knowledge

• Ability to perform job duties with accuracy, reliability, and precision.
• Strong organizational skills to manage workload and meet turnaround time expectations.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with healthcare teams.
• Strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to compassionately interact with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, and beliefs.

Workflow Management

Ability to appropriately respond to:

• Fluctuations in patient or specimen volume
• Unexpected situations such as equipment or system failures
• Shift-to-shift handoffs and continuity of workflow
• STAT and time-sensitive testing requirements
• Specimen integrity issues such as labeling discrepancies, insufficient volume, improper collection, or transport delays

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and frequently walk several miles during a shift
• Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the workday
• Ability to navigate multiple patient care areas within the facility

Career Growth

This position offers opportunities for professional development and career advancement within Lab Support Services.

Co-workers are required to complete Laboratory Support Services training and classes within the first year of employment. Upon successful completion, co-workers will be promoted to a Lab Assistant role and receive a corresponding pay increase.

Lab Assistants may continue to expand their skillset through additional training and experience, with opportunities to pursue advanced laboratory career paths based on departmental needs, role requirements, and individual performance.