Laboratory Assistant at Sanford Health: Your Career in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Role Overview

Are you passionate about healthcare and looking for a rewarding career? Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is seeking a dedicated Laboratory Assistant to join our team. In this role, you will play a vital part in supporting laboratory operations by performing phlebotomy, collecting and processing specimens, and ensuring the accuracy of laboratory data. This position offers a great opportunity to contribute to patient care while working in a supportive and professional environment.

Day in the Life

As a Laboratory Assistant, your day will be dynamic and focused on providing essential support to the laboratory team. Here’s a glimpse into your daily responsibilities:

• Phlebotomy: Perform venipuncture to collect blood samples from patients, ensuring their comfort and safety.
• Specimen Collection: Collect various types of biological specimens, such as urine, swabs, and other bodily fluids, following established protocols.
• Specimen Processing: Prepare and process specimens for laboratory testing, including labeling, centrifuging, and aliquoting samples.
• Data Entry: Accurately enter laboratory orders and results into the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Quality Control: Assist in quality control activities to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results.
• Inventory Management: Monitor and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents.
• Equipment Maintenance: Assist in maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring proper functionality.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere to laboratory safety regulations and infection control procedures.
• Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service to patients, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and detailed records of all laboratory activities.

Why Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

Sioux Falls is a vibrant and growing city that offers a high quality of life. Here are a few reasons why Sioux Falls is a great place to live and work:

• Affordable Living: Sioux Falls has a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States, making it an attractive place to build a career and raise a family.
• Strong Job Market: The healthcare industry is thriving in Sioux Falls, providing numerous job opportunities and career advancement possibilities.
• Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping, at nearby parks and recreational areas.
• Cultural Attractions: Explore museums, art galleries, theaters, and other cultural attractions that showcase the city's rich history and artistic talent.
• Friendly Community: Experience a welcoming and friendly community that values collaboration and community involvement.
• Excellent Schools: Access top-rated schools and educational institutions that provide quality learning experiences for students of all ages.
• Safe Environment: Benefit from a low crime rate and a safe environment that promotes peace of mind and security.
• Growing Economy: Witness a growing economy that supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development.

Career Path

The Laboratory Assistant position at Sanford Health offers a solid foundation for career advancement within the laboratory and healthcare fields. With experience and further education, you can advance to roles such as:

• Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT): Perform a wide range of laboratory tests and procedures under the supervision of a medical technologist.
• Medical Technologist (MT): Conduct complex laboratory tests and analyses, interpret results, and ensure the accuracy of laboratory data.
• Phlebotomy Supervisor: Oversee phlebotomy operations, train and supervise phlebotomists, and ensure compliance with phlebotomy standards.
• Laboratory Manager: Manage laboratory operations, including personnel, budget, and quality control activities.

Salary & Benefits

Sanford Health offers a competitive salary and benefits package for the Laboratory Assistant position. The salary range is estimated to be between $32,000 and $48,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to salary, Sanford Health provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support services
• Tuition reimbursement for continuing education and professional development
• Employee discounts on various products and services
• Wellness programs to promote employee health and well-being

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. We value teamwork, collaboration, and a patient-centered approach to care. As a member of the Sanford Family, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and contribute to the health and well-being of the community.

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining the Sanford Health team as a Laboratory Assistant, we encourage you to apply online through our careers website. Please submit your resume and cover letter, highlighting your qualifications and experience. We look forward to hearing from you!

FAQ

1. What are the required qualifications for the Laboratory Assistant position?

A high school diploma or GED is preferred. Completion of a formal phlebotomy program, phlebotomy experience, and experience in a laboratory-related field are also preferred. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification may be required.

2. What are the primary responsibilities of a Laboratory Assistant?

The primary responsibilities include performing phlebotomy, collecting and processing specimens, entering laboratory orders and results, and ensuring the accuracy of laboratory data.

3. What is the salary range for the Laboratory Assistant position?

The salary range is estimated to be between $32,000 and $48,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

4. What benefits does Sanford Health offer to its employees?

Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, retirement savings plan, life insurance, and disability coverage.

5. Is prior experience required for this position?

Prior experience in phlebotomy or a laboratory-related field is preferred but not always required. Training will be provided to new hires.

6. What opportunities for career advancement are available at Sanford Health?

Sanford Health offers numerous opportunities for career advancement, including roles such as Medical Laboratory Technician, Medical Technologist, Phlebotomy Supervisor, and Laboratory Manager.

7. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?

Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. We value teamwork, collaboration, and a patient-centered approach to care.

8. How does Sanford Health support employee well-being?

Sanford Health offers wellness programs to promote employee health and well-being, as well as an employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support services.

9. What is the process for applying for the Laboratory Assistant position?

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter online through the Sanford Health careers website.

10. Is relocation assistance available for this position?

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. Please inquire during the interview process.