St. Joseph Medical Center·Tacoma, Washington
The Lab Assistant is responsible for collecting, preparing, and processing various patient specimens for diagnostic testing. They must maintain efficient department workflow and ensure positive patient identification and professional communication.
Where You’ll Work Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891.
Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve.
This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education.
Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence.
When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.
Job Summary and Responsibilities As a Lab Assistant, you will play a crucial role in solving diagnostic mysteries, bringing us one step closer to effectively treating patient illnesses and injuries.Every day you will utilize your expertise and our advanced technology to precisely collect, prepare, and process a diverse range of patient specimens (blood, urine, tissue, etc.) for various diagnostic tests.
To be successful in this role, you will possess a foundational understanding of laboratory procedures, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, and maintain an eager commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Practices positive patient identification at all times, in all job functions.
Practices HumanKindness and courtesy with all patient and co-worker interactions.
Establishes and maintains good communication within the department and with other hospital departments.
Takes responsibility for the department workflow, assists all members of the team to maintain department workflow and efficiency.
Creates an atmosphere by manner, work and deed that fosters teamwork and collaboration.
Processes specimen into the lab, organized for department distribution.
Job Requirements Required High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or High School GED General Studies, upon hire and Basic Life Support (through AHA) - CPR, within 90 Days and Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months Preferred Certificate Other Lab Assistant Program 6 months experience in an acute care facility, upon hire and Certificate Other Phlebotomy program, upon hire
Candidates must be high school graduates with Basic Life Support (CPR) and a Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist certification in Washington. A lab assistant or phlebotomy program certificate and acute care experience are preferred.
Market context
In Washington, laboratory assistant roles are commonly tied to steady demand in hospitals and other acute care settings, where timely specimen handling supports patient care. These positions can be competitive because employers often prefer candidates with phlebotomy certification, CPR/BLS, and acute care experience, even when those are not strictly required. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, and confirm your Washington phlebotomist credential is current before applying.
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