Essentia Health·Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
The Medical Laboratory Assistant performs specimen collection through venipuncture and capillary puncture while ensuring patient safety. They are also responsible for specimen processing, handling, and performing waived laboratory testing according to accreditation standards.
The Medical Laboratory Assistant is responsible for performing tasks to support pre-analytical and post-analytical functions within Essentia Health Laboratories.
The MLA will promote patient safety while performing specimen collection and processing.
This position will also perform waived lab testing following standards of accreditation agencies and state licensure requirements. Education Qualifications: Key Responsibilities: Collects specimens through venipuncture or capillary skin puncture and other miscellaneous specimens (Urine, swabs, etc.) Performs specimen processing and handling according to testing requirements to support clinical laboratory testing Performs laboratory testing, when applicable, per accreditation and licensure requirements Participates in training of new employees, students, and other personnel as appropriate Follows Essentia Health rules and policies while handling specimens and equipment to ensure safety and quality Educational Requirements: Graduate from Medical Laboratory Assistant Program OR Completes an internal Medical Laboratory Assistant training program within 1 year of hire
Phlebotomy or Medical Laboratory Assistant American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification Recent specimen preparation and processing experience Possession of a valid motor vehicle operators’ license Knowledge of medical terminology and basic computer skills Licensure/Certification Qualifications: FTE: 0 Possible Remote/Hybrid Option: Shift Rotation: Day/Eve Rotation (United States of America) Shift Start Time: Day/Eve Rotation Shift End Time: Day/Eve Rotation Weekends: Yes Holidays: Yes Call Obligation: No Union: Union Posting Deadline: Compensation Range: $17.63 - $26.45 Employee Benefits at Essentia Health: At Essentia Health, we’re committed to supporting your well-being, growth, and work-life balance. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with supplemental options to fit your needs. We offer a 401(k) plan with employer contributions to help you plan for the future, and we invest in your professional development through training, tuition reimbursement, and educational programs. To help you thrive both at work and at home, we provide flexible scheduling, generous time off, and wellness resources focused on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Please note that benefit eligibility may vary. For full details, refer to your benefit summary or contact our HR Service Center at (218) 576-0000.
Candidates must be a graduate of a Medical Laboratory Assistant program or complete internal training within one year of hire. ASCP certification and a valid motor vehicle operator's license are preferred.
Market context
In Minnesota, Medical Laboratory Assistant-casual roles are typically driven by ongoing patient testing needs in hospitals and clinics, so openings can appear when teams need flexible coverage. These positions are competitive because employers often prefer candidates with formal lab training, ASCP certification, and a valid driver’s license, while also expecting readiness to complete internal training within a year. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm whether your training and certification status match the posting before applying.