Laboratory Assistant at Sanford Health: Your Path to a Rewarding Career in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Are you detail-oriented, passionate about healthcare, and eager to contribute to a team dedicated to improving patient outcomes? Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is seeking a motivated and skilled Laboratory Assistant to join our growing team. This full-time position offers a dynamic work environment, competitive compensation, and opportunities for professional growth within one of the largest and fastest-growing not-for-profit health systems in the United States.

Role Overview

As a Laboratory Assistant, you will play a crucial role in the efficient and accurate processing of laboratory specimens. Your responsibilities will include performing phlebotomy, collecting, preparing, and processing biological specimens, and ensuring the accuracy and quality of laboratory data. You'll work closely with laboratory technologists and other healthcare professionals to provide timely and reliable results that contribute to patient diagnosis and treatment.

A Day in the Life of a Laboratory Assistant

Here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like as a Laboratory Assistant at Sanford Health:

• Morning: Arrive at the MB2 Building and prepare your workstation for the day. Review the daily schedule and prioritize tasks.
• Phlebotomy: Perform venipuncture and capillary punctures to collect blood specimens from patients, adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines.
• Specimen Processing: Receive and process various biological specimens, including blood, urine, and tissue samples, ensuring proper labeling, handling, and storage.
• Data Entry: Enter laboratory orders and test results into the laboratory information system (LIS), maintaining accurate and complete records.
• Quality Control: Perform quality control checks on equipment and reagents to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with patients, healthcare providers, and other laboratory staff regarding specimen collection, processing, and test results.
• Afternoon: Continue processing specimens and entering data. Assist with inventory management and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with other laboratory staff to ensure efficient workflow and timely completion of tasks.

Why Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

Sioux Falls offers a unique blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm. With a thriving economy, affordable cost of living, and a strong sense of community, Sioux Falls is an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, cultural events, and entertainment options, all within easy reach. Sanford Health's presence in Sioux Falls provides numerous career opportunities and contributes to the city's vibrant healthcare landscape.

Career Path and Advancement Opportunities

Sanford Health is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for professional growth and advancement. As a Laboratory Assistant, you can develop your skills and knowledge through on-the-job training, continuing education programs, and mentorship opportunities. Potential career paths may include:

• Laboratory Technician: With additional training and experience, you can advance to a Laboratory Technician role, performing more complex laboratory tests and procedures.
• Medical Technologist: Further education and certification can lead to a career as a Medical Technologist, responsible for analyzing blood, body fluids, and tissues to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
• Specialized Laboratory Roles: Sanford Health offers a variety of specialized laboratory roles in areas such as microbiology, hematology, and molecular diagnostics.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this Laboratory Assistant position is estimated between $32,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO) and vacation time
• Retirement plan with employer matching
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Health savings accounts (HSA)
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts
• Wellness programs
• Sign-on bonus (as advertised)

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. We value teamwork, innovation, and a patient-centered approach to healthcare. Our mission is to provide high-quality care to our patients and communities, and we are dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence.

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining the Sanford Health team as a Laboratory Assistant, please submit your application online through our careers website. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and explain why you are passionate about working in the laboratory setting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the required qualifications for this 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.
2. Is Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required? BLS certification may be required for this position.
3. What are the typical working hours for this role? This is a full-time position with 8-hour day shifts, totaling 32 hours per week.
4. What is the salary range for this position? The estimated salary range is between $32,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
5. What benefits does Sanford Health offer? Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and more.
6. What are the opportunities for career advancement? Sanford Health provides numerous opportunities for professional growth and advancement, including potential career paths to Laboratory Technician, Medical Technologist, and specialized laboratory roles.
7. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health? Sanford Health fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees can thrive.
8. How do I apply for this position? You can apply online through the Sanford Health careers website.
9. What is the sign-on bonus for this position? The sign-on bonus amount is available upon application and may vary depending on experience and qualifications.
10. Where is the MB2 Building located? The MB2 Building is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on the Sanford Health campus.

Join Sanford Health and make a difference in the lives of our patients and communities!