Job Description

The Lead Phlebotomist supports laboratory operations by overseeing daily phlebotomy workflow while also performing patient blood collection duties. This role provides day-to-day coordination, staff support, and troubleshooting to ensure high-quality, safe, and efficient specimen collection across all shifts.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required; completion of an accredited phlebotomy program, medical assistant program, military training, or equivalent experience required
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 2 years of phlebotomy experience required
• Licensure/Certification:
  • Current BLS (CPR) certification required
  • Phlebotomy certification from an approved organization preferred
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong phlebotomy and specimen collection skills
  • Ability to lead and support team members in daily operations
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and manage workflow
  • Attention to detail and commitment to patient safety
  • Basic computer skills and knowledge of medical terminology

What You’ll Do

• Oversee daily phlebotomy workflow and ensure adherence to protocols and standards
• Perform blood draws and specimen collection for patients across various settings
• Serve as a resource for staff, providing guidance and troubleshooting support
• Assist with scheduling and staffing adjustments based on operational needs
• Mentor and train new employees, supporting skill development and team performance
• Order supplies and ensure availability of necessary materials
• Monitor quality, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards
• Serve as lead in the absence of the supervisor
• Rotate across shifts and support coverage as needed

What the Job is Really Like

• This is a working lead role—you’ll be both performing phlebotomy and supporting team operations throughout your shift
• You’ll frequently shift between patient care and team coordination responsibilities
• The role requires constant prioritization, especially during high-volume periods or staffing gaps
• You may need to troubleshoot issues in real time, including difficult draws, workflow bottlenecks, or staffing challenges
• You’ll interact with a wide range of patients, including those who may be anxious, in pain, or difficult to draw
• The environment is fast-paced and detail-driven, where accuracy and patient safety are critical
• You may be expected to step into a leadership role quickly, especially when the supervisor is not present
• Flexibility is important, as you may rotate shifts or adjust schedules to meet operational needs

Work Environment & Demands

• Hospital and laboratory settings with direct patient interaction
• Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout patient care areas (see physical demands on page 3)
• Regular use of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination for specimen collection
• Exposure to blood and bodily fluids, requiring adherence to safety and infection control protocols
• High mental focus required for accuracy, multitasking, and communication
• Fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and changing priorities

What Success Looks Like

• Specimens are collected accurately, safely, and efficiently
• Daily workflow runs smoothly with minimal delays
• Staff feel supported, guided, and held to high standards
• Quality and safety protocols are consistently followed
• Supplies and resources are well-managed and readily available
• You effectively balance patient care responsibilities with leadership duties
• You contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment

Caring for Our Team
We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.

Happy to Help

At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.