LEAD LAB ASSISTANT

About us

Cooper University Health Care is an integrated healthcare delivery system serving residents and visitors throughout Cape May County. The system includes Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional; three urgent care facilities; nearly 30 primary care and specialty care offices in multiple locations throughout Cape May County; The Cancer Center at Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional; the Claire C. Brodesser Surgery Center; AMI at Cooper, Miracles Fitness and numerous freestanding outpatient facilities providing wound care, lab, and physical therapy services. We have a commitment to our employees by providing competitive rates and compensation programs.

Cooper offers full and part time employees a comprehensive employee benefits program, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, on-site Early Education Center (employee discount), attractive working conditions, and the chance to build and explore a career opportunity by offering professional development.

Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional is accredited by and received the Gold Seal of approval from The Joint Commission.

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Short Description

The Lead Lab Assistant functions as the evening and alternating weekend shift point person for phlebotomy operations. This role balances hands-on specimen collection and processing with staff oversight, troubleshooting, and communication with supervisors. By ensuring adequate coverage, supporting staff, and escalating issues appropriately, the Lead Lab Assistant promotes safe, efficient, and high-quality laboratory services.

Monitors and coordinates phlebotomist workflow during evening and weekend shifts to ensure timely patient collections and equitable workload distribution. Ensures adequate phlebotomy coverage by arranging meal break coverage, filling staffing shortages, and redistributing assignments when needed. Acts as first point of contact for phlebotomists during shift for questions, support, and immediate problem-solving.

Performs blood collections when workload demands exceed staffing or when technical assistance is required. Provides hands-on support in high-volume or difficult collection situations. Ensures adherence to patient identification, labeling, and infection control standards.

Identifies and resolves routine issues related to phlebotomy, specimen handling, and workflow interruptions. Escalates unresolved or complex issues to the shift supervisor or charge tech in a timely manner. Documents and communicates relevant shift events or concerns to leadership for follow-up.

Perform specimen receiving, accessioning, and processing activities. Ensures proper sample identification, integrity, and dispatch to appropriate laboratory sections. Perform with add-on testing, referral specimens, and pneumatic tube operations.

Responds professionally to phone inquiries regarding specimen collection, and test status. Dispatches stat phlebotomist for nursing homes. Provides guidance to staff and clinical units on collection requirements or escalates as needed. Serves as a communication link between phlebotomy staff and laboratory supervisors.

Accurately documents specimen-related activities in LIS and section logs. Ensures proper tracking of send-outs and referral testing documentation. Supports clerical functions to maintain smooth operations during evening shifts.

Monitors adherence to safety, infection control, and HIPAA regulations by phlebotomy staff. Reports hazards, incidents, or compliance concerns promptly. Assists in training and mentoring new or less experienced lab assistants and phlebotomists.

Monitors equipment used during the evening shift (refrigerators, freezers, pneumatic tube stations, centrifuges) and documents results. Ensures supplies are stocked and available to avoid workflow disruptions.

Experience Required

2-3 years of Lab Assistant experience preferred

Phlebotomy experience required

Education Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent

Completion of a phlebotomy training program

Special Requirements

Shift : Evening (1PM - 9PM or 3PM - 11PM)

Alternating weekends and rotating holidays.