Clinical Lab Assistant I in Boone, North Carolina at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Full-Time | 7:00am to 7:00pm

As a Clinical Lab Assistant I at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll play an essential role in supporting laboratory operations and patient care. From specimen collection and processing to assisting with basic laboratory testing, you’ll help ensure accurate and timely diagnostic information that supports exceptional patient outcomes. Join a collaborative healthcare team dedicated to quality, safety, and service in one of North Carolina’s most beautiful mountain communities.

• Compensation: Starting pay begins at $18.05 per hour, with competitive rates based on experience and education.
• Schedule: Full-time with variable shifts, including weekends and holidays as needed.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, retirement with employer match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts.

• Perform phlebotomy procedures and basic CLIA-waived laboratory testing using established protocols and equipment.
• Collect, label, process, and store patient specimens accurately and efficiently.
• Prepare specimens for laboratory analysis using manual and automated equipment.
• Assist with laboratory quality control and quality assurance activities to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records within laboratory information systems.
• Support laboratory operations through specimen handling, inventory management, and workflow coordination.
• Communicate effectively with patients, providers, nursing staff, and laboratory team members.
• Adhere to all safety, infection prevention, and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and alignment with UNC Health Appalachian’s Mission, Vision, and Values.

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Minimum one year of experience as a Phlebotomist or Clinical Laboratory Assistant with at least three months of on-the-job laboratory training required.
• Previous healthcare or laboratory experience preferred.

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required at the time of hire.
• Phlebotomy certification preferred but not required.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to process laboratory specimens safely and accurately.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and specimen handling requirements.
• Proficiency with laboratory computer systems and ability to type at least 25 WPM.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to provide exceptional customer service to patients, families, and healthcare team members.

• Continuous standing and walking for extended periods throughout shifts.
• Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling greater than 50 lbs.
• Frequent bending, kneeling, squatting, twisting, turning, and reaching.
• Frequent hand, finger, and wrist repetition with moderate dexterity.
• Frequent close eye work and visual attention to detail.
• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and biological specimens.
• Frequent exposure to laboratory chemicals, reagents, and hazardous materials.
• Exposure to electrical and mechanical laboratory equipment.
• Subject to variable schedules, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency situations.
• May be exposed to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, including x-ray and microwave exposure.

• Career Growth: Build your laboratory career through continuing education, tuition reimbursement, certification support, and advancement opportunities.
• Meaningful Work: Help provide accurate diagnostic information that directly impacts patient care and outcomes.
• Community & Lifestyle: Enjoy living and working in Boone, North Carolina, surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a vibrant community.
• Inclusive Culture: Join a supportive healthcare team committed to respect, collaboration, diversity, and professional excellence.

Ready to begin or grow your laboratory career in a mission-driven healthcare environment?

Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and help deliver exceptional care to the communities we proudly serve.

About UNC Health Appalachian
It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.”

About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.