
Lab Assistant II
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 assisting technical staff in the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of laboratory tests. The role ensures specimens, patient information, and workflows are handled accurately and efficiently. As a contributing member of the team, this position supports departmental operations, assists peers, and helps meet workflow needs to maintain timely turnaround, data integrity, and compliance with quality and safety standards.
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 add‑on 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 chemical‑handling 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.
Supports inventory management, including stocking and ordering supplies as needed.
Serves as a preceptor for students and new hires and participates in competency assessments as applicable.
Actively contributes to team engagement efforts and participates in department or hospital committees and 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, Trinity Health’s Organizational Integrity Program, Standards of Conduct, as well as other Trinity Health and MercyOne 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 to drive 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.