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%25 (With Benefits)

Company: University of Iowa

Location: West Branch, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Part-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Clinical Support

Date Posted: May 19, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support clinical operations by performing essential laboratory functions, including phlebotomy and point-of-care testing (POCT).

• Ensure accurate and timely processing and analysis of biological specimens to aid in patient diagnosis and treatment.

• Maintain laboratory equipment and environment to high standards of quality control and regulatory compliance.

• Contribute to a patient-centered care model within a family medicine clinic setting, demonstrating excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Leverage experience with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) and Electronic Health Records (EHR) for efficient data management and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "50%25" in the job title indicates a part-time role equivalent to 20 hours per week. The role involves direct patient interaction for specimen collection and supporting clinical workflow through laboratory services. The reference to "Laboratory Technician II" suggests a level of autonomy and technical proficiency beyond entry-level, requiring at least two years of relevant experience or equivalent certification.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform phlebotomy procedures accurately and efficiently, ensuring patient comfort and specimen integrity.

• Conduct routine laboratory testing on biological specimens, including urinalysis and blood tests, following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Utilize the Laboratory Information System (LIS) for specimen accessioning, data entry, labeling, and processing.

• Prepare specimens for transport to maintain viability for external testing or reference laboratories.

• Record, review, and report laboratory testing results within the LIS and to clinicians, adhering to regulatory requirements (e.g., CLIA, HIPAA).

• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, performing daily quality control checks as required.

• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the laboratory area, including equipment and supplies.

• Manage inventory of laboratory supplies, order new stock as needed, and conduct simple maintenance on equipment.

• Receive, distribute, and pack laboratory supplies, environmental samples, and biological specimens.

• Escalate complex equipment or technical issues to the Laboratory Technical Consultant and report significant laboratory variances.

• Respond to telephone inquiries regarding laboratory specimens and resolve laboratory-related questions with minimal guidance.

• Float to other clinical locations or specialties as needed to support operational demands and maintain required hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a hands-on role focused on specimen management and basic diagnostic testing. The need to "float to other clinical locations/specialties" suggests adaptability and a broad understanding of clinic operations beyond a single department. Emphasis on quality control and regulatory compliance highlights the critical nature of accuracy and adherence to standards in a healthcare setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate's degree in a related science field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• Minimum of two years of related laboratory experience, with at least one year at a Laboratory Technician I level or equivalent.

• Proven experience in phlebotomy and performing venipuncture procedures.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in phlebotomy techniques and venipuncture.

• Skilled in performing routine laboratory tests (e.g., urinalysis, basic blood tests).

• Experience with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) for specimen management and result reporting.

• Knowledge of quality control procedures and instrumentation calibration.

• Ability to maintain laboratory equipment and supplies.

• Strong understanding of specimen handling, processing, and transport requirements.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective reporting and inquiry resolution.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic clinical environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, specifically Epic.

• Experience in a Family Medicine clinic setting.

• Familiarity with laboratory audits and compliance procedures.

• Previous immunization administration experience.

• Demonstrated ability to handle and process a variety of lab specimens.

📝 Enhancement Note: The educational requirements are flexible, allowing for a combination of post-secondary education and relevant experience, or a specific certification. The emphasis on a Driver's License and willingness to float suggests a need for mobility and flexibility within the clinic network. Previous Epic experience is a significant plus, indicating the importance of EHR proficiency in the University of Iowa's healthcare system.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented experience in developing and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for laboratory testing and specimen handling.

• Examples of contributions to quality control processes, including documentation of calibration and QC checks.

• Case studies or descriptions of how laboratory processes were optimized for efficiency or accuracy.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to follow and contribute to detailed process documentation for phlebotomy, specimen collection, and basic laboratory testing.

• Experience in maintaining accurate logs and records for equipment calibration, quality control, and specimen tracking.

• Understanding of how laboratory processes integrate with broader clinical workflows and patient care pathways.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be required for this role, candidates are expected to articulate their experience with processes, quality control, and system usage. The resume submission requirement emphasizes the need to detail relevant experiences and skills that demonstrate proficiency in these areas.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the University of Iowa's Pay Grade 8 structure and the part-time nature of the role (20 hours/week), the hourly rate would typically fall within the range of $18.00 - $25.00 per hour.

Benefits:

• Full, comprehensive benefit package for regular positions.

• Generous employer contributions into retirement plans.

• Paid vacation and sick leave.

• Health, dental, life, and disability insurance options.

• Free on-site parking.

Working Hours:

• Part-time, 50%25 (20 hours per week).

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

• Thursday hours specifically end at 12:00 pm.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on common pay scales for similar roles in academic medical centers in the Midwest. The "Pay Grade 8" is a key indicator, and candidates should research the University of Iowa's specific pay grade structure for more precise figures. The comprehensive benefits for a part-time role are a significant advantage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center, Community Clinics)

Company Size: Large (University of Iowa employs over 12,000 people)

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, with UI Health Care operating as a major component. This long history implies stability and established practices.

Team Structure:

• The Laboratory Technician II will be part of the UICC West Branch Family Medicine Clinic team.

• This role supports a clinical team that includes physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and administrative staff.

• Direct reporting to a Laboratory Technical Consultant or Clinic Manager for day-to-day operations and technical guidance.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on patient-centered care, following the "WE CARE" core values: Welcoming, Excellence, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, Empowerment.

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the use of Laboratory Information Systems and adherence to quality control.

• Process improvement is a key aspect, as evidenced by the need to maintain efficiency and accuracy in laboratory procedures.

Company Website: https://uiowa.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Iowa's "WE CARE" values are central to its operational philosophy. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their work aligns with these principles, particularly regarding collaboration, respect, and excellence in patient care. The large size of the organization suggests structured processes and opportunities for diverse experiences.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Technician II," indicating a mid-level position within the laboratory support structure. It requires a solid foundation of technical skills and experience, with some autonomy in daily tasks.

Reporting Structure: The Laboratory Technician II will likely report to a Laboratory Technical Consultant or a Clinic Manager, with oversight from higher administrative or laboratory leadership within UI Health Care.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts patient care by providing essential diagnostic information through laboratory testing and specimen collection. Accurate and timely results are critical for diagnosis, treatment planning, and overall patient outcomes within the family medicine setting. Efficient laboratory operations contribute to the smooth functioning of the clinic and patient satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to expand proficiency in various laboratory tests, gain experience with different instrumentation, and deepen knowledge of clinical laboratory practices.

• Specialization: Potential to develop expertise in specific areas like point-of-care testing or specialized specimen handling relevant to family medicine.

• Advancement: Possible progression to roles like Laboratory Technician III, Lead Technician, or specialized roles within the broader UI Health Care laboratory system, contingent on performance, further education, and available openings.

• Cross-Training: Exposure to different clinic settings and specialties if floating is a regular part of the role can broaden experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While direct "revenue operations" or "sales operations" career paths are not applicable here, this role is crucial for the operational efficiency of a clinical department. Growth opportunities focus on technical skill enhancement and potential advancement within the healthcare laboratory hierarchy. Candidates should highlight their commitment to continuous learning and adapting to new technologies or testing methodologies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role within a busy family medicine clinic setting. This includes working in dedicated laboratory spaces and patient care areas for phlebotomy.

Office Location(s):

• Primary location: UICC West Branch Family Medicine Clinic.

Workspace Context:

• The laboratory space will be equipped with standard diagnostic equipment, a Laboratory Information System, and necessary supplies.

• A clean, organized, and safe working environment is paramount, adhering to healthcare regulations.

• Collaboration will occur with clinic staff, including physicians, nurses, and medical assistants, in a team-oriented atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• Structured part-time schedule (20 hours/week) with specific operating days and hours (Monday, Thursday, Friday).

• Offers predictable hours without evenings, weekends, or holidays, providing good work-life balance for a part-time position.

📝 Enhancement Note: The working environment is hands-on and patient-facing. Candidates should be comfortable working in a clinical setting, interacting with diverse patient populations, and collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary healthcare team. The flexibility to float implies a need for adaptability and familiarity with different clinic workflows.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Resume review to assess qualifications against required and desired criteria.

• Phone/Video Interview: Discussion with HR or hiring manager to gauge initial fit, clarify experience, and explain the role in more detail.

• On-site Interview: May involve meeting with the hiring manager, Laboratory Technical Consultant, and potentially other clinic staff. This typically includes a tour of the facility and a discussion of practical scenarios.

• Skills Assessment: Potentially a practical demonstration of phlebotomy skills or a case study scenario related to laboratory procedures or troubleshooting.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Ensure your resume clearly outlines specific laboratory procedures performed, instruments used, LIS/EHR experience (especially Epic), and any quality control or process improvement contributions. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "processed X specimens daily," "reduced specimen rejection rate by Y%").

• Case Study Preparation: Be ready to discuss a time you encountered a challenging laboratory situation (e.g., difficult venipuncture, equipment malfunction, unusual test result) and how you resolved it, highlighting your problem-solving skills and adherence to protocols.

• Value Alignment: Prepare to speak about how your work ethic aligns with the University of Iowa's "WE CARE" values, particularly in relation to patient care, teamwork, and excellence.

Challenge Preparation:

• Phlebotomy Skills: Be prepared to discuss your technique, handling of difficult draws, and patient interaction strategies.

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Think about how you would troubleshoot common issues like equipment errors, specimen quality problems, or LIS discrepancies.

• Process Improvement: Consider examples where you identified an inefficiency in a laboratory process and proposed or implemented a solution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, the emphasis on uploading a resume that "clearly address[es] how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications" means the resume serves as the primary document for showcasing capabilities. Candidates should treat their resume as their portfolio, meticulously detailing relevant experiences and skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Laboratory Information System (LIS): Essential for specimen accessioning, tracking, data entry, and reporting. Candidates should highlight proficiency with any LIS.

• Electronic Health Record (EHR): Experience with EHR systems is crucial for patient record management and communication. Epic is specifically mentioned as highly desired, making it a key technology to emphasize if experienced.

• Phlebotomy Equipment: Experience with various types of needles, collection tubes, and safety devices.

• Basic Laboratory Diagnostic Equipment: Familiarity with instruments for urinalysis, blood testing (e.g., centrifuges, spectrophotometers, point-of-care analyzers).

Analytics & Reporting:

• LIS reporting functions for test results and specimen turnaround times.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how laboratory data feeds into patient management systems is relevant.

• Familiarity with automated specimen processing or testing equipment, if applicable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with LIS and EHR systems, particularly Epic, is a significant advantage. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these systems in detail, including data entry accuracy, reporting capabilities, and troubleshooting common issues.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centeredness: All work is focused on providing accurate and timely support for patient care.

• Excellence: Commitment to high-quality testing, accurate results, and continuous improvement.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and other clinic staff to ensure seamless patient flow.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of tasks, ensuring accuracy, and adhering to all safety and regulatory standards.

• Respect: Treating patients and colleagues with dignity and professionalism.

• Efficiency: Streamlining laboratory processes to support clinic operations and minimize patient wait times.

Collaboration Style:

• Expected to be a team player, supporting clinic staff and contributing to a positive work environment.

• Open communication is vital for relaying test results, clarifying orders, and resolving issues.

• Adherence to established protocols and procedures ensures consistency and reliability in laboratory services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "WE CARE" values are the guiding principles for the University of Iowa's culture. Candidates should reflect on how they embody these values in their daily work and interactions, especially regarding patient care, teamwork, and professional conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Tasks: Juggling phlebotomy duties, specimen processing, routine testing, and equipment maintenance in a fast-paced clinic environment.

• Difficult Venipunctures: Encountering patients with challenging venous access, requiring advanced techniques and patience.

• Maintaining Accuracy: Ensuring precision in all testing and data entry to avoid errors that could impact patient care.

• Adapting to Floating: Potentially working in different clinic settings, requiring flexibility and quick adaptation to new workflows or environments.

• Keeping Up with Regulations: Staying current with evolving healthcare regulations and laboratory standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Gaining experience with a wider range of laboratory tests and instrumentation.

• System Proficiency: Deepening knowledge of LIS and EHR systems, particularly Epic.

• Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn about other clinical support roles or laboratory functions within UI Health Care.

• Professional Development: Access to training resources provided by the University of Iowa for continuous learning and skill enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to hone essential clinical laboratory skills and gain exposure to a large academic medical center's operational framework. Candidates should view challenges as opportunities to demonstrate problem-solving abilities and resilience.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with phlebotomy, including how you handle difficult venipunctures or anxious patients." (Focus on technique, patient communication, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy and quality control in your laboratory work?" (Highlight adherence to SOPs, QC procedures, and attention to detail.)

• "Walk me through your process for accessioning and processing a laboratory specimen." (Demonstrate understanding of specimen integrity, LIS usage, and workflow.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you embody the University of Iowa's 'WE CARE' values in your daily work?" (Connect your past experiences to Welcoming, Excellence, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment.)

• "Describe a time you collaborated effectively with a physician, nurse, or other healthcare professional." (Focus on communication, teamwork, and achieving a common goal.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to guide the interviewer through your resume, highlighting the most relevant experiences and skills for this Laboratory Technician II role.

• Scenario-Based Answers: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions, providing concrete examples of your capabilities.

• Technical Acumen: Clearly articulate your understanding of laboratory processes, quality control, and the importance of accurate record-keeping.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of technical proficiency, strong interpersonal skills, and a commitment to quality and patient care. Demonstrating familiarity with Epic and the "WE CARE" values will significantly strengthen your application.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to explicitly highlight all relevant laboratory experience, phlebotomy skills, LIS/EHR experience (especially Epic), and any quality control or process improvement contributions. Use keywords from the job description.

• Cover Letter (Optional but Recommended): If a cover letter is permitted, use it to briefly articulate your enthusiasm for the role, your understanding of the "WE CARE" values, and how your skills directly align with the requirements, particularly mentioning your experience with Epic if applicable.

• Prepare for Interview Scenarios: Practice answering behavioral questions using the STAR method and be ready to discuss technical aspects of laboratory procedures, phlebotomy, and quality control.

• Research UI Health Care: Familiarize yourself with UI Health Care's mission, values, and services, especially its commitment to patient-centered care and its role as an academic medical center.

⚠️ 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.