The Phlebotomist is responsible for collecting blood and other specimens from patients while ensuring accuracy, patient safety, and specimen integrity. This role follows standard procedures for patient identification, collection, labeling, and handling while providing a positive and professional experience for patients across various care settings.
Minimum Qualifications
- Education: Completion of an accredited phlebotomy program, medical assistant program, EMT training, or military medic training required
- Experience:
- Completion of training program or at least 1 year of recent phlebotomy experience required
- Licensure/Certification:
- Current BLS (CPR) certification required
- Phlebotomy or related certification preferred
- Skills & Abilities:
- Strong venipuncture and specimen collection skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Ability to follow protocols and safety standards
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Basic computer skills and knowledge of medical terminology preferred
What You’ll Do
- Perform venipunctures and fingersticks using proper techniques
- Collect blood, urine, and other specimens as ordered by physicians
- Verify patient identity using standard protocols (e.g., name and DOB)
- Label, process, and transport specimens accurately
- Maintain supplies in draw areas and ensure readiness for patient care
- Communicate clearly with patients, answering questions and providing reassurance
- Follow all safety, infection control, and regulatory guidelines
- Report safety concerns and escalate issues appropriately
- Perform end-of-shift responsibilities, including cleaning and supply management
What the Job is Really Like
- You’ll spend most of your shift interacting directly with patients, performing blood draws and specimen collection
- The role requires precision and attention to detail—errors in labeling or identification can impact patient care
- You’ll work with a wide range of patients, including those who may be anxious, in pain, or difficult to draw
- The pace can vary from steady to busy, depending on patient volume and location (outpatient or nursing facilities)
- You’ll often work independently, while still being part of a larger laboratory team
- Tasks can be repetitive, but require consistent focus and accuracy
- You must be comfortable following strict procedures and speaking up if safety concerns arise
Work Environment & Demands
- Hospital, outpatient, or nursing facility settings with direct patient interaction
- Frequent standing, walking, and movement between patients (see physical demands on page 3)
- Requires fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination for specimen collection
- Exposure to blood and bodily fluids, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols
- High level of concentration and attention to detail required
- Combination of independent work and team collaboration
What Success Looks Like
- Specimens are collected accurately, safely, and efficiently
- Patient identification and labeling are consistently correct
- Patients feel informed, comfortable, and supported during procedures
- Safety and infection control protocols are followed at all times
- Supplies are maintained and work areas remain organized
- You demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and attention to detail
- You contribute to a smooth and efficient laboratory workflow
Caring for Our Team We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.
Happy to Help
At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.
