Phlebotomist

Phlebotomist

This Phlebotomist role focuses on providing high-quality specimen collection and processing services in a fast-paced patient service center and laboratory environment. The position supports accurate diagnostic testing by performing blood draws and other specimen collections, preparing and handling specimens according to strict protocols, and maintaining detailed records. The phlebotomist also contributes to smooth workflow by troubleshooting issues, assisting with training, and recommending improvements to processes while delivering courteous, professional customer service to patients across pediatric to geriatric age groups.

Responsibilities

• Perform venipuncture and other blood draws using straight needles and butterfly needles in a safe, accurate, and efficient manner.
• Collect, label, and store blood and other specimens (such as urine or fecal samples) according to established procedures and test requirements.
• Clearly and courteously explain the venipuncture and specimen collection process to patients to ensure understanding and comfort.
• Match laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes and verify that all patient and test information is accurate and complete.
• Label, centrifuge, split, and freeze specimens as required by specific test orders, following all protocols to maintain specimen integrity.
• Check all test requisitions or computer-generated labels against provider scripts to ensure 100% accuracy before processing.
• Package specimens for transport, following all procedures related to temperature control, container selection, and documentation.
• Store specimen samples at the appropriate temperature and place them in the correct collection containers or tubes as required by protocol.
• Follow specific procedures for specimen handling and transport to preserve the quality and integrity of each sample.
• Understand and comply with OSHA and DEP regulations related to safety, infection control, and environmental standards.
• Record maintenance data and perform decontamination tasks for equipment and work areas as required.
• Update patient information and documentation accurately in applicable systems or forms.
• Answer telephone calls and respond to inquiries, including reading and relaying laboratory results when appropriate.
• Participate in annual department trainings and maintain up-to-date knowledge of procedures, regulations, and best practices.
• Assist with troubleshooting workflow issues and make recommendations to improve efficiency and quality in the laboratory or patient service center.
• Support training efforts by demonstrating proper phlebotomy techniques and procedures to colleagues when needed.
• Provide professional, courteous customer service to patients and healthcare providers in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience performing phlebotomy and blood draws, including use of straight needles and butterfly needles.
• Ability to collect and handle various specimen types, including blood, urine, and fecal samples, according to established procedures.
• Strong attention to detail in matching laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes and verifying patient and test information.
• Competence in labeling, centrifuging, splitting, and freezing specimens in accordance with specific test orders.
• Ability to check test requisitions or computer-generated labels against provider scripts to ensure complete accuracy.
• Knowledge of proper specimen storage requirements, including temperature control and appropriate collection containers or tubes.
• Understanding of and compliance with OSHA and DEP regulations related to safety and environmental practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience working in a fast-paced laboratory or hospital setting.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in phlebotomy or a closely related role.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Phlebotomy certification for the state of employment, where required by state regulations.
• Strong customer service skills and the ability to work effectively with pediatric through geriatric patient populations.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow physicians' orders and laboratory protocols.
• Effective verbal communication skills to explain procedures and respond to inquiries.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in a patient service center or similar outpatient collection setting.
• Comfort working with pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients, including the ability to adapt communication and techniques to different age groups.
• Familiarity with medical terminology and laboratory workflows.
• Ability to assist with training and mentoring colleagues on phlebotomy techniques and workflow processes.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate records in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment

This position is based in a patient service center and laboratory environment that operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with alternating Saturday shifts from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The role is part of a three-person patient service center team and involves working with a wide range of patients, from pediatric to geriatric demographics. On weekends, the phlebotomist will work at a patient service center located in Manassas. The environment is fast paced and requires consistent adherence to safety, OSHA, and DEP regulations, as well as careful handling of laboratory equipment such as centrifuges and specimen storage systems. Professional attire appropriate for a clinical and laboratory setting is expected, with an emphasis on maintaining a clean, safe, and organized workspace.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Fairfax, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)