What Does a Phlebotomist Do?
A phlebotomist is a healthcare professional who collects blood samples from patients for laboratory testing, transfusions, research, or donation. They are trained to draw blood safely and efficiently while ensuring patients are comfortable throughout the process. Phlebotomists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, diagnostic laboratories, and blood donation centers, where they are often among the first healthcare providers patients interact with during a visit.
Their work goes beyond venipuncture. Phlebotomists are responsible for properly labeling and handling specimens, maintaining sterile equipment, and adhering to strict safety protocols to prevent contamination or errors. They play a crucial role in supporting physicians and lab technicians by ensuring that blood samples are accurate, reliable, and processed according to medical standards. By combining technical skill with patient care, phlebotomists contribute directly to effective diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
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Phlebotomist Core Responsibilities
- Draw blood samples from patients for testing, transfusions, and donations
- Prepare patients for procedures and explain the process to reduce anxiety
- Label, record, and transport specimens according to established protocols
- Maintain sterile techniques and ensure proper use of equipment
- Verify patient information and medical records before collection
- Follow infection control, OSHA, and HIPAA compliance standards
- Monitor patients for adverse reactions during and after blood draws
- Assist with inventory management of phlebotomy supplies
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in venipuncture and capillary blood collection techniques
- Knowledge of specimen handling, labeling, and storage procedures
- Familiarity with laboratory safety and infection control protocols
- Ability to use phlebotomy equipment and electronic health record (EHR) systems
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Compassionate patient care and customer service skills
- Effective communication with patients and medical staff
- Ability to remain calm in high-pressure or fast-paced environments
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of an accredited phlebotomy training program required
Certifications
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) or Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) required by many employers
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 1+ years of experience in a hospital, clinic, or diagnostic lab
- Experience working with pediatric, geriatric, or high-volume patient populations
- Bilingual communication skills for diverse patient communities
National Average Salary
Phlebotomist salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Phlebotomist is:
$38,990
Sample Job Description Templates for Phlebotomists
Entry-Level Phlebotomist
Position Overview
We are seeking an entry-level phlebotomist to assist in collecting blood samples under the guidance of experienced staff. This role is ideal for recent graduates of a phlebotomy program who are eager to gain hands-on experience in a clinical or laboratory setting.
Responsibilities
- Perform venipuncture and capillary blood draws under supervision
- Prepare patients for procedures and provide basic instructions
- Accurately label specimens and complete required documentation
- Assist with maintaining sterile equipment and phlebotomy supplies
- Support experienced phlebotomists and lab staff with daily tasks
- Follow safety, infection control, and HIPAA protocols
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of venipuncture and specimen handling
- Familiarity with medical terminology and EHR systems
- Ability to follow safety and infection control procedures
Soft skills
- Compassionate patient care with a reassuring demeanor
- Attention to detail in labeling and documentation
- Willingness to learn and accept feedback
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of an accredited phlebotomy training program required
Certifications
- State licensure or registration required where applicable
- BLS certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Externship or internship experience in a healthcare or lab environment
- Strong interpersonal skills with patients of all ages
Certified Phlebotomist
Position Overview
We are hiring a certified phlebotomist to collect, process, and transport blood specimens in compliance with medical and regulatory standards. This role requires certification and demonstrated proficiency in venipuncture techniques.
Responsibilities
- Perform accurate and efficient venipuncture and capillary blood collection
- Verify patient identification and maintain detailed records
- Ensure proper labeling, handling, and transport of specimens
- Operate and maintain phlebotomy equipment
- Provide support and training for new or entry-level phlebotomists
- Monitor patients for adverse reactions and take appropriate action
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in venipuncture and specimen processing
- Knowledge of OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control protocols
- Ability to troubleshoot equipment and procedural issues
Soft skills
- Clear and professional communication with patients and staff
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to remain calm in high-volume environments
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of an accredited phlebotomy program required
Certifications
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) or Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) required
- State licensure required where applicable
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years of experience in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or diagnostic lab
- Experience training new staff or students
Senior Phlebotomist
Position Overview
We are seeking a senior phlebotomist to perform advanced phlebotomy procedures and mentor junior staff. This position requires extensive experience in clinical settings and a strong commitment to accuracy and patient safety.
Responsibilities
- Perform advanced blood collection techniques for complex cases
- Mentor and train entry-level and certified phlebotomists
- Oversee specimen labeling and quality control procedures
- Assist with process improvements for specimen collection and workflow efficiency
- Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements
- Serve as a resource for resolving patient or technical issues
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of venipuncture techniques and special procedures
- Proficiency in using EHR systems and lab software
- Knowledge of quality control practices in specimen collection
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Ability to provide compassionate care in high-stress situations
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of accredited phlebotomy training program required
Certifications
- CPT or RPT certification required
- State licensure required where applicable
Preferred Qualifications
- 3–5 years of phlebotomy experience in hospital or specialty labs
- Experience handling pediatric, geriatric, or special-needs patients
Lead Phlebotomist
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead phlebotomist to supervise daily operations of the phlebotomy team, coordinate scheduling, and ensure quality standards are met. This role requires strong technical expertise as well as leadership skills to oversee staff performance.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and train phlebotomy staff
- Oversee daily workflow and delegate responsibilities
- Monitor specimen quality, labeling, and compliance standards
- Resolve escalated patient service or procedural issues
- Assist with scheduling and staffing needs
- Collaborate with laboratory management to improve operations
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong expertise in phlebotomy procedures and protocols
- Ability to oversee and evaluate staff performance
- Proficiency in maintaining compliance with laboratory regulations
Soft skills
- Leadership and team management abilities
- Excellent communication and conflict resolution skills
- Strong organizational and multitasking capabilities
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of accredited phlebotomy training program required
Certifications
- CPT or RPT certification required
- State licensure required where applicable
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of phlebotomy experience, including team leadership
- Previous experience in both hospital and outpatient settings
Phlebotomy Supervisor
Position Overview
We are seeking a phlebotomy supervisor to oversee all phlebotomy operations within a clinic, hospital, or laboratory. This role involves staff management, compliance monitoring, and process improvement, requiring both technical expertise and leadership.
Responsibilities
- Supervise, evaluate, and develop phlebotomy staff
- Ensure compliance with safety, legal, and regulatory requirements
- Oversee scheduling, staffing, and training for phlebotomy operations
- Monitor quality assurance metrics and implement improvements
- Serve as liaison between phlebotomy staff, laboratory personnel, and clinical leadership
- Handle escalated patient care or technical issues
Requirements
Hard skills
- Extensive knowledge of phlebotomy practices, safety, and compliance standards
- Proficiency in staff management and workflow optimization
- Ability to manage inventory and oversee equipment maintenance
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and decision-making skills
- Effective communication across clinical teams
- High attention to detail and organizational ability
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of an accredited phlebotomy program required
Certifications
- CPT or RPT certification required
- State licensure required where applicable
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of phlebotomy experience, with at least 2 in a supervisory role
- Experience implementing process improvements in lab or clinical settings