Laboratory Technician II – UI Health Care West Branch Family Medicine Clinic 50%25 (With Benefits)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Laboratory Technician II – UI Health Care West Branch Family Medicine Clinic 50% (With Benefits)

Company: University of Iowa

Location: West Branch, Iowa; Iowa City, Iowa

Job Type: Part-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Clinical Support

Date Posted: August 21, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This part-time (20 hours/week) Laboratory Technician II position is crucial for providing direct patient care support within the UI Health Care West Branch Family Medicine Clinic and potentially other clinical locations.

• The role involves performing essential laboratory functions, including phlebotomy, point-of-care testing, and routine laboratory testing on biological specimens, directly impacting patient diagnosis and treatment.

• Successful candidates will manage laboratory equipment, maintain quality control standards, and ensure accurate data entry and specimen processing within the Laboratory Information System (LIS).

• This position offers the significant advantage of a comprehensive benefits package from the University of Iowa, including robust retirement contributions and paid time off, alongside free on-site parking.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Laboratory Technician II" typically falls under a scientific or technical category, the context of its placement within a Family Medicine Clinic and the emphasis on patient interaction (phlebotomy, point-of-care testing) positions this role firmly within Healthcare Operations and Clinical Support. The responsibilities extend beyond pure laboratory analysis to encompass direct patient interface and clinic workflow integration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Phlebotomy and Specimen Collection: Perform phlebotomy procedures, including difficult venipuncture, to collect blood and other biological specimens accurately and efficiently from patients.

• Routine Laboratory Testing: Conduct routine laboratory tests such as urinalysis and blood tests on clinical specimens, ensuring adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and regulatory requirements.

• Specimen Processing and Transport: Prepare specimens for transport, maintaining their viability, and manage the accessioning of specimens within the Laboratory Information System (LIS).

• Data Entry and Reporting: Perform data entry, labeling, and processing of laboratory specimens, and accurately record and report test results to clinicians via the LIS.

• Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, performing simple maintenance and ensuring proper functioning.

• Quality Control and Assurance: Execute and review daily quality control procedures for assigned testing and instrumentation to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.

• Laboratory Area and Supply Management: Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the laboratory area, manage inventory, and order necessary supplies.

• Cross-Functional Support: Provide phlebotomy and point-of-care testing support to other clinical locations within UI Health Care as needed, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to patient care across the network.

• Troubleshooting and Communication: Respond to telephone inquiries regarding laboratory specimens, and troubleshoot laboratory questions with minimal guidance, escalating complex issues to the Laboratory Technical Consultant.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical laboratory skills and direct patient interaction within a clinical setting. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, compliance, and efficient workflow management, which are critical in healthcare operations. The mention of "difficult venipuncture procedures" suggests a need for advanced phlebotomy skills and potentially experience with challenging patient populations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement.

• Required: Two years of related laboratory experience, including one year as a Laboratory Technician I or equivalent level experience; OR Certified Laboratory Assistant (CLA) certification; OR any combination of related post-high school education and experience totaling two years.

Experience:

• A minimum of two years of relevant laboratory experience is required, with at least one year at a technician level or equivalent.

• Experience in a clinical setting, particularly family medicine, is highly desired.

• Previous experience with phlebotomy, immunization, lab audits, and specimen processing is also highly desired. Required Skills:

• Phlebotomy Expertise: Proficient in performing phlebotomy, including handling difficult venipuncture procedures, with a strong emphasis on patient comfort and safety.

• Laboratory Testing Proficiency: Ability to perform routine laboratory tests (e.g., urinalysis, blood tests) accurately and efficiently.

• Laboratory Information System (LIS) Navigation: Skilled in using LIS for specimen accessioning, data entry, and result reporting.

• Quality Control Procedures: Competent in performing and documenting daily quality control checks on laboratory equipment and tests.

• Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Experience in operating, calibrating, and performing basic maintenance on laboratory instruments.

• Specimen Handling: Knowledge of proper specimen collection, preparation, and transport to maintain viability.

• Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of and adherence to regulatory requirements and standard operating procedures within a clinical laboratory setting.

Preferred Skills:

• EPIC EMR Experience: Familiarity with the EPIC Electronic Medical Record system is highly desirable for seamless integration with patient data.

• Family Medicine Clinic Experience: Prior experience working within a family medicine clinic environment.

• Immunization Administration: Experience in administering immunizations.

• Laboratory Auditing: Experience participating in or conducting laboratory audits.

• Teamwork and Autonomy: Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with patients, clinicians, and colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Highly Desired Requirements" section points towards specific system experience (EPIC) and practical skills (phlebotomy, immunizations) that are crucial for operational efficiency in a clinic setting. The emphasis on teamwork and autonomy suggests a need for individuals who can manage their workload effectively while also contributing to a cohesive clinic environment. The requirement for a driver's license and meeting UI Fleet Safety Standards indicates potential travel between clinic locations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Phlebotomy Technique Documentation: While not a formal portfolio, candidates should be prepared to discuss their phlebotomy techniques, patient interaction strategies, and handling of difficult draws.

• Quality Control Records: Be ready to explain how quality control is maintained in a laboratory setting, perhaps referencing examples of QC logs or troubleshooting scenarios.

• Specimen Handling Protocols: Demonstrate understanding of protocols for handling, processing, and transporting various biological specimens to ensure sample integrity.

• LIS Workflow Examples: Be prepared to describe typical workflows within a Laboratory Information System, including accessioning, data entry, and result reporting.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization: Candidates should be able to articulate how they identify and implement improvements in laboratory workflows to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Understanding the importance of SOPs and their role in ensuring consistent and compliant laboratory testing.

• Quality Assurance Practices: Discussing methods for ensuring the quality and reliability of laboratory results through established QA processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense (like a designer's portfolio) is unlikely. However, candidates are expected to demonstrate their practical skills and understanding of processes. This means being prepared to discuss specific examples of their work, troubleshooting scenarios, and how they apply quality control and safety protocols. The interviewer will be looking for evidence of best practices in phlebotomy, specimen handling, and data management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $35,000 - $45,000 annually (based on 20 hours/week at an estimated hourly rate for a Grade 8 position in Iowa, considering experience and benefits).

• Note: Specific salary will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications and experience, aligned with the University of Iowa's Pay Grade 8 merit system. For precise details, candidates should consult the University of Iowa's HR department or refer to their pay grade guidelines.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage options.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life and disability insurance policies.

• Retirement Plan: Generous employer contributions into retirement plans (specific details available via UI HR).

• Paid Time Off: Accrued paid vacation and sick leave.

• Free On-Site Parking: Convenient parking available at the clinic location.

• Other University Benefits: Access to a wide range of additional benefits and employee programs offered by the University of Iowa.

Working Hours:

• Part-time, 50% FTE (approximately 20 hours per week).

• Variable hours, typically Monday, Thursday, and Friday between 7:30 am and 5:00 pm.

• Thursday hours conclude at 12:00 pm.

• No on-call time, weekends, or holidays are required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job explicitly states "With Benefits" and highlights a "full, comprehensive benefit package." The estimated salary range is derived from the "Pay Grade 8" mentioned in the description and general knowledge of part-time healthcare support roles in Iowa. The significant benefit package, including retirement contributions and PTO, is a key differentiator for this role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center)

Company Size: The University of Iowa is a large institution, employing over 12,000 people. UI Health Care is a significant part of this, indicating a substantial and well-resourced healthcare system.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, and UI Health Care has a long-standing history of providing comprehensive medical services.

Team Structure:

• Clinic-Based Team: This role is primarily situated within the UICC West Branch Family Medicine Clinic, working alongside physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and other support staff.

• Laboratory Support: While part of the clinic, the technical aspects of the role connect to broader laboratory services within UI Health Care.

• Reporting Hierarchy: The Laboratory Technician II likely reports to a Clinic Manager or a Laboratory Supervisor/Technical Consultant, with direct collaboration expected with physicians and clinical staff.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role requires interaction with various departments within UI Health Care, especially if floating to other locations is necessary.

Methodology:

• Patient-Centered Care: The overarching methodology is focused on providing personalized, compassionate care, building relationships with patients, and ensuring a seamless healthcare experience.

• Data-Driven Operations: While not explicitly detailed for this technician role, the University of Iowa Health Care system likely utilizes data for quality improvement, patient outcomes tracking, and operational efficiency.

• Process Adherence and Improvement: Emphasis on following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and regulatory compliance, while also being open to identifying areas for workflow optimization.

Company Website: https://uiowa.edu/ (University of Iowa), https://uihc.org/ (UI Health Care)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is heavily influenced by the University of Iowa's "WE CARE" core values: Welcoming, Excellence, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment. This suggests an environment that prioritizes patient well-being, professional development, and ethical conduct. The academic medical center context implies a commitment to high standards of care and potentially research or training involvement for some staff.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-to-mid-level position within clinical operations, focusing on technical support and direct patient interaction. It's a vital component of the patient care delivery system within a primary care setting.

Reporting Structure: The Laboratory Technician II reports to clinic leadership and potentially laboratory management, working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary healthcare team. This structure allows for direct impact on daily clinic operations and patient flow.

Operations Impact: The role directly influences patient care by ensuring timely and accurate diagnostic information through phlebotomy and point-of-care testing. Efficient specimen processing and accurate reporting are critical for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and overall patient safety, contributing significantly to the clinic's operational effectiveness and patient satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in phlebotomy, various laboratory tests, and potentially point-of-care instrumentation.

• Cross-Training: Potential for cross-training in other clinical support roles within the family medicine clinic or other UI Health Care facilities.

• Advanced Certifications: Encouragement to pursue further certifications (e.g., Certified Medical Assistant, further laboratory technician certifications) to enhance career prospects.

• Internal Mobility: As a large institution, the University of Iowa offers opportunities for internal transfers to other roles or departments, including opportunities in larger hospital laboratory settings or specialized clinics.

• Leadership Potential: With experience and further development, advancement to roles such as Lead Laboratory Technician or Supervisor within a clinic setting may be possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a specialized role, its placement within a large academic institution like the University of Iowa provides a solid foundation for career growth. The emphasis on continuous learning and the potential for internal mobility are key advantages for ambitious individuals in clinical support roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is primarily within a busy, patient-facing Family Medicine Clinic (UICC West Branch Family Medicine Clinic), with potential for travel to other clinical locations.

Office Location(s):

• Primary location: West Branch, Iowa.

• Secondary locations: Potential to float to other clinical locations within the UI Health Care network based on clinical need and available hours. Workspace Context:

• Clinical Setting: Work involves direct patient interaction in a clinical environment, requiring a professional and empathetic demeanor.

• Laboratory Area: Dedicated space within the clinic for performing laboratory tests, handling specimens, and operating equipment. This area requires adherence to safety and cleanliness standards.

• Team Collaboration: Frequent interaction with physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and administrative staff within the clinic.

• Tools and Technology: Access to standard clinic equipment, laboratory instruments, and the University of Iowa's Laboratory Information System (LIS), and potentially EPIC EMR.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time (20 hours/week) with variable hours, typically Monday, Thursday, and Friday.

• Specific shifts are within standard clinic operating hours (7:30 am - 5:00 pm), with Thursdays ending at 12:00 pm.

• Predictable schedule with no required evenings, weekends, or holidays, allowing for work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and requires adaptability, especially with the possibility of floating to other clinics. The emphasis on patient care and teamwork is paramount. The inclusion of free on-site parking is a practical perk for an on-site role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of submitted resumes and applications by HR and the hiring manager to assess qualifications against the job requirements.

• Phone/Video Interview: A preliminary interview may be conducted to discuss experience, skills, and cultural fit.

• On-Site Interview: Candidates may be invited for an on-site interview at the clinic, which could include:

  • Technical Assessment: Discussion of phlebotomy techniques, specimen handling, quality control, and experience with laboratory equipment and LIS.
  • Scenario-Based Questions: Questions about how to handle specific patient interactions, difficult venipunctures, or laboratory issues.
  • Team Interaction: Meeting with potential colleagues to assess collaboration and communication style.
  • Review of Desired Skills: Discussion around experience with EPIC, family medicine settings, and other desired qualifications.

• Final Decision: Based on overall assessment of skills, experience, and fit with the team and University values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Ensure your resume clearly details all relevant laboratory experience, phlebotomy skills, LIS usage, and any certifications. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Processed an average of X specimens per day").

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to speak in detail about your phlebotomy procedures, safety protocols, handling of common laboratory tests (urinalysis, blood draws), and quality control measures.

• Demonstrate LIS Proficiency: Describe your experience with Laboratory Information Systems, including accessioning, data entry, and reporting, and how you ensure data accuracy.

• Highlight Desired Skills: If you have experience with EPIC, family medicine clinics, or immunizations, be prepared to provide specific examples.

• Showcase Soft Skills: Be ready to discuss examples of teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and patient interaction, referencing the "WE CARE" values.

Challenge Preparation:

• While a formal "challenge" might not be assigned, expect questions that probe your problem-solving abilities.

• Scenario-Based Questions: "How would you handle a patient who is extremely anxious about needles?" or "What steps would you take if a specimen appeared to be mishandled?"

• Process Understanding: Be prepared to explain your understanding of quality control processes and how you ensure accuracy in your daily work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a strong resume that directly addresses qualifications. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their technical skills and practical experience clearly, particularly in phlebotomy and lab procedures. The "WE CARE" values will likely be a theme throughout the interview process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Laboratory Information System (LIS): Essential for specimen accessioning, data entry, tracking, and reporting of laboratory results. Specific LIS used by UI Health Care would be beneficial to know.

• Phlebotomy Equipment: Standard collection tubes, needles, syringes, tourniquets, alcohol swabs, bandages, sharps containers.

• Point-of-Care Testing Devices: Devices for performing tests like urinalysis, glucose monitoring, or other rapid diagnostic tests directly in the clinic.

• Laboratory Analyzers: Equipment for performing routine tests such as centrifuges, microscopes, and potentially automated analyzers for basic blood and urine tests.

• EPIC EMR (Highly Desired): Experience with the Electronic Medical Record system is a significant advantage for patient data management, order entry, and result viewing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• LIS Reporting Features: Utilizing built-in reporting functions within the LIS for daily quality control, test volumes, and specimen turnaround times.

• Spreadsheet Software (e.g., Microsoft Excel): For basic data tracking, inventory management, or simple analysis if required.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable: This role is not in a CRM or sales automation context, but efficient data management within the LIS is critical.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with LIS is a core requirement. Experience with EPIC is a strong preference that significantly enhances a candidate's profile. Familiarity with basic laboratory equipment and point-of-care testing devices is also expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Welcoming: Creating a welcoming environment for patients and colleagues, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and respected.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in performing laboratory tasks, maintaining accuracy, and contributing to patient care.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with physicians, nurses, and other clinic staff to ensure seamless patient care and efficient clinic operations.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, ensuring accuracy in all tasks, and maintaining professional conduct.

• Respect: Treating all patients and colleagues with dignity and respect, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

• Empowerment: Demonstrating initiative in managing workload, contributing to process improvements, and seeking opportunities for professional growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: The role requires close collaboration with clinic staff to ensure smooth patient flow and timely diagnostic support.

• Communication-Focused: Open and clear communication with clinicians regarding specimen requirements, results, and any issues encountered.

• Supportive: Willingness to assist colleagues and float to other areas as needed to ensure departmental coverage and patient care continuity.

• Process-Driven: Adherence to established protocols while being open to feedback and suggestions for process refinement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "WE CARE" values are central to the University of Iowa's culture and will heavily influence team interactions and expectations for this role. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how they embody these values in their daily work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Tasks: Juggling phlebotomy, point-of-care testing, specimen processing, and administrative duties efficiently in a fast-paced clinic environment.

• Patient Variability: Handling diverse patient populations, including those with difficult veins, anxiety, or other medical conditions that may complicate specimen collection.

• Maintaining Accuracy Under Pressure: Ensuring meticulous accuracy in specimen handling, testing, and data entry, even during peak clinic hours.

• Adapting to Clinic Needs: Flexibility to float to other clinical locations or assist with varied tasks as clinic demands shift.

• Keeping Up with Technology: Staying current with LIS updates, new testing methodologies, and evolving clinic protocols.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to refine phlebotomy techniques, gain experience with a wider range of lab tests, and become proficient in point-of-care testing devices.

• Cross-Training: Potential to be cross-trained in other clinic support functions, broadening skill sets.

• Continuing Education: Access to University of Iowa resources and potential support for relevant certifications or workshops in laboratory science or healthcare support.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced clinicians and laboratory professionals within the UI Health Care system.

• Career Progression: Pathways to roles with increased responsibility, such as Lead Technician or opportunities within larger laboratory settings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for clinical support roles, emphasizing the need for strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a commitment to accuracy. The growth opportunities are robust, given the institutional support and the breadth of services offered by UI Health Care.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "How do you ensure the accuracy and efficiency of your daily laboratory tasks?" or "Describe a time you identified a way to improve a process in your previous role."

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you effectively communicate test results or specimen requirements to physicians or nurses?" or "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with a difficult colleague or patient."

• Problem-Solving: "What would you do if you encountered an issue with a laboratory instrument or a specimen's integrity?" or "How do you prioritize your tasks when faced with multiple demands simultaneously?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about the University of Iowa Health Care and its mission?"

• "How do you embody the 'WE CARE' values in your work?"

• "Describe your ideal work environment and team dynamic." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your resume, highlighting specific experiences that align with the job description, especially your phlebotomy skills, LIS experience, and any relevant certifications.

• Scenario-Based Examples: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe how you handled specific situations related to patient care, technical procedures, or teamwork.

• Demonstrate LIS Knowledge: Explain your process for specimen accessioning, data entry, and result reporting within an LIS, emphasizing accuracy and efficiency.

• Phlebotomy Expertise: Be ready to discuss your approach to patient interaction during phlebotomy, especially with anxious patients or challenging draws.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills, understanding of healthcare operations, and alignment with the University's core values. Be ready to provide concrete examples and articulate your problem-solving approach.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the University of Iowa's Taleo career portal.

• Resume Customization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience in phlebotomy, routine laboratory testing, LIS usage, and any specific certifications (e.g., CLA). Quantify your experience where possible.

• Address Qualifications: Tailor your resume and any cover letter to directly address each "Required" and "Highly Desired" qualification listed in the job description.

• Prepare for Technical Discussion: Be ready to discuss your phlebotomy techniques, quality control procedures, and experience with laboratory information systems during the interview process.

• Research UI Health Care: Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa Health Care's mission, values ("WE CARE"), and services to demonstrate your understanding and fit with their culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.