Phlebotomist

UT MD Anderson has the nation's largest cancer clinical trials program enrolling patients in Texas and beyond through our Cancer Network® partners across the country. UT MD Anderson is devoted to the needs and protection of all those participating in or conducting clinical research while maintaining high ethical standards and compliance with all regulatory policies. The Division of Clinical Research provides infrastructure support for all aspects of clinical research. 

The primary purpose of the Phlebotomist position is to perform protocol-required research specimen collections and basic specimen processing in support of clinical trials. Responsibilities include collecting blood, urine, tissue, and other protocol-specific specimens within designated collection windows to ensure protocol compliance, specimen integrity, and high-quality patient care. The position also performs laboratory support activities within Clinical Trial Laboratory Services (CTLS) and other MD Anderson inpatient and outpatient clinical areas.

The ideal Phlebotomist candidate will possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with patients, research participants, and team members in a professional laboratory environment. Experience working in a laboratory setting is preferred. Prior experience with specimen processing and performing EKGs is highly desirable; however, candidates who demonstrate the aptitude and willingness to learn these skills are encouraged to apply.

Minimum $18.27 – Midpoint $22.84 – Maximum $27.40
The typical work schedule is 1:00pm–9:30pm (evening shift), Monday–Friday.
Work Location: Texas Medical Center (Onsite)

Why Us?
Working as a Phlebotomist at UT MD Anderson offers an opportunity to directly contribute to life-saving clinical research while developing specialized laboratory and patient care skills. This role supports career growth in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and provides exposure to advanced clinical trials, fostering both professional development and meaningful impact in patient care.
• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week, plus optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• Accruals for PTO and Extended Illness Bank, plus paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service and access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups.
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System, voluntary retirement plans, and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Phlebotomy/Processing (50%)
• Performs protocol-required collection and basic processing of blood, urine, tissue, and other research specimens in accordance with study-specific laboratory manuals, collection windows, and CTLS Standard Operating Procedures. 
• Demonstrates competency in protocol-specific specimen collections, including venipuncture, capillary puncture, central venous catheter collections, tissue specimen handling, body fluid collections, isolation precautions, and age-specific collection techniques.
• Accurately documents specimen collection, processing, chain of custody, and research billing information within laboratory information systems and required study documentation.
• Maintains knowledge of protocol-specific collection windows, sponsor requirements, institutional policies, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards, and CTLS Standard Operating Procedures to ensure accurate collection, processing, shipping, storage, and overall protocol compliance.
• Prioritizes workload effectively, meets established productivity expectations, assists with operational problem-solving, and participates in continuing education to maintain technical competency.

Quality Assurance (25%)
• Ensures all research specimens are collected, processed, documented, and stored in accordance with protocol requirements while maintaining specimen integrity and regulatory compliance.
• Performs all phlebotomy procedures according to the section's manual, accurately identifying patients and collecting the correct specimens while maintaining specimen integrity through timely collection and transportation.
• Completes required electronic documentation, accurately documents protocol deviations or variances, and maintains research records in accordance with institutional and sponsor requirements.
• Communicates workload concerns proactively, seeks assistance when needed, and collaborates with team members to ensure timely completion of patient care activities.
• Complies with all JCAHO patient safety requirements, guidelines for handling cytotoxic agents and biological hazards, and other regulatory requirements, including hand washing and the proper use of personal protective equipment, and seeks clarification from supervisors when necessary.

Safety and Customer Service (25%)
• Complies with all safety policies, assisting in ensuring a safe environment for patients, co-workers, and visitors, and using equipment and supplies safely.
• Wears protective attire and personal protective equipment according to regulatory, institutional, and divisional requirements, and participates in all required safety training.
• Provides exceptional customer service while maintaining professional communication with patients, research teams, nursing staff, providers, sponsors, and fellow employees.
• Documents specimen collection activities, patient interactions, protocol-required procedures, and any collection variances accurately and in accordance with institutional and sponsor requirements.
• Promotes teamwork, flexibility, and collaboration while supporting departmental operational needs and maintaining a patient-centered environment.

Other Duties as Assigned