Laboratory Education Coordinator - Diagnostic Testing Center, Full-Time, Days - Northwestern Medicine : Job Details

Description

The Lab Education Coordinator reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Memorial, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

The Lab Education Coordinator, under the direction of the Manager, Lab Education Coordinator, has the authority and accountability for facilitating staff education on proper specimen collection, ensuring competency, and maintaining quality in the pre-analytical phase of testing. The coordinator supports staff training, competency assessments, and other duties as assigned. Additionally, the coordinator assists in regulatory and accreditation compliance audits and quality improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities:

COORDINATION OF TRAINING, ONBOARDING, AND EVALUATION:

• Assist in developing standard operating procedures and managing document control.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, TJO, CAP, CLSI, and hospital regulations, policies, and procedures related to phlebotomy. Report significant events to NM management and Directors as required.
• Promote a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to patient care and interdepartmental problem solving related to phlebotomy.
• Develop and facilitate training programs to orient laboratory staff on NM policies, Laboratory General, and Safety procedures.
• Oversee the orientation and initial training of lab personnel according to guidelines established by Laboratory Management and Human Resources.
• Conduct departmental orientation for all new employees in the Department of Pathology, including NM policies and safety procedures.
• Handle onboarding for new employees, including IT access and setup.
• Track and ensure completion of all online employee education modules related to phlebotomy.
• Participate in staff meetings and gather feedback on staff education programs.
• Conduct audits, evaluate processes, and prepare reports with recommendations for improvements in phlebotomy workflows.
• Ensure responses to audits and training are well documented via email or checklists.
• Communicate effectively, respect diverse opinions, and acknowledge contributions of others.
• Work on weekends as needed based on business requirements.
• Manage work schedule efficiently, completing tasks on time.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives.
• Maintain a safe work environment and promote safe work practices among staff.
• Demonstrate NM Core Values: Excellence, Integrity, Teamwork, and Patient's First.
• Identify key issues and staff development opportunities to communicate with Leadership.
• Initiate and oversee improvement initiatives to successful completion.

TECHNICAL:

• Follow hospital and department policies and procedures.
• Maintain patient and employee information per laboratory and accreditation standards (e.g., CAP, TJC).
• Assist in developing, revising, and updating phlebotomy and lab procedures and documentation.
• Perform other relevant duties as assigned.
• Support re-education efforts on laboratory procedures at NM or HealthLab offices.
• Perform phlebotomy and related lab tasks across all age groups, aligned with NM standards for patient care and safety.
• Serve as a liaison between laboratory and clinical staff supporting Clinical Quality Management activities.
• Be familiar with medical EMR systems.
• Possess knowledge of medical terminology.

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate's degree and/or 5+ years of applicable healthcare experience.
• ASCP or NHA certification.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in an applicable discipline.

Equal Opportunity

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment based on age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected status.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that support employees' physical, emotional, and financial well-being, as well as protection during unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.