OPT Phlebotomist Jobs
Phlebotomist jobs on OPT are available at hospitals, diagnostic labs, and outpatient clinics across the U.S. Most roles require a phlebotomy certification alongside your degree. Your OPT work authorization must directly relate to your field of study, so confirm your program qualifies before applying.
Find OPT Phlebotomist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 10+ Phlebotomist jobs
See all Phlebotomist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Phlebotomist roles.
Get Access To All JobsDescription
Summary:
Accurately evaluates specimen orders and enter clinical data/information into a variety of computer systems (i.e. order entry, patient demographics and/or results). Identifies any missing or invalid data entry information and take the appropriate action to correct. Operates automated and semi-automated equipment according to standard operating procedures.
Effectively communicate supply deficiencies to appropriate personnel, including deficiencies related to specimens, paperwork, database information, and equipment.
Responsibilities:
- Meets expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies: Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders.
- Accurately document information as required, including processing logs, quality control, and labeling of reagents.
- Cleans, sanitizes, and maintains laboratory equipment and glassware.
- Maintains and distributes laboratory supplies.
- Packages laboratory biohazard waste for disposal following established standards and practices.
- Maintains laboratory coat supply.
- Orders, receives, stocks, ships and tracks laboratory equipment and supplies.
- Ensuring all equipment is functioning correctly or scheduling equipment repair or replacement.
- Tracks equipment calibrations and preventative maintenance.
- Maintains inventory of all consumables and reagents.
- Assists in arranging the disposal of biohazard and chemical waste.
- Assists with the enforcement of all laboratory policies and procedures.
- Assists in enforcing safety around PPEs (personal protective equipment’s).
- Follows established protocols for safety, infection control, security, compliance, and the use of hazardous materials.
Job Requirements:
Education/Skills
- Associate of Science Degree preferred.
- Basic knowledge in the areas of microbiology, immunology or molecular biology and biochemistry as related to infectious diseases required.
Experience
- Phlebotomy training or experience is required.
- 1 year of experience in a clinical laboratory setting or length of time to complete certification program preferred.
Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications
- One of the following national certification/registrations is required:
- Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) by ASCP
- Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA) by AMT
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) by ASCP
- Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) by AMT
- Certified Phlebotomy Technologist (CPT) by NPA
- State license is required to practice in Louisiana
- CLS - Laboratory Assistant by LSBME
In accordance with the CHRISTUS Health License, Certification and Registration Verification Policy, all Associates are required to obtain the required certifications for their respective positions within the designated time frame.
Work Schedule:
M-F Days
Work Type:
Full Time
Description
Summary:
Accurately evaluates specimen orders and enter clinical data/information into a variety of computer systems (i.e. order entry, patient demographics and/or results). Identifies any missing or invalid data entry information and take the appropriate action to correct. Operates automated and semi-automated equipment according to standard operating procedures.
Effectively communicate supply deficiencies to appropriate personnel, including deficiencies related to specimens, paperwork, database information, and equipment.
Responsibilities:
- Meets expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies: Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders.
- Accurately document information as required, including processing logs, quality control, and labeling of reagents.
- Cleans, sanitizes, and maintains laboratory equipment and glassware.
- Maintains and distributes laboratory supplies.
- Packages laboratory biohazard waste for disposal following established standards and practices.
- Maintains laboratory coat supply.
- Orders, receives, stocks, ships and tracks laboratory equipment and supplies.
- Ensuring all equipment is functioning correctly or scheduling equipment repair or replacement.
- Tracks equipment calibrations and preventative maintenance.
- Maintains inventory of all consumables and reagents.
- Assists in arranging the disposal of biohazard and chemical waste.
- Assists with the enforcement of all laboratory policies and procedures.
- Assists in enforcing safety around PPEs (personal protective equipment’s).
- Follows established protocols for safety, infection control, security, compliance, and the use of hazardous materials.
Job Requirements:
Education/Skills
- Associate of Science Degree preferred.
- Basic knowledge in the areas of microbiology, immunology or molecular biology and biochemistry as related to infectious diseases required.
Experience
- Phlebotomy training or experience is required.
- 1 year of experience in a clinical laboratory setting or length of time to complete certification program preferred.
Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications
- One of the following national certification/registrations is required:
- Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) by ASCP
- Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA) by AMT
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) by ASCP
- Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) by AMT
- Certified Phlebotomy Technologist (CPT) by NPA
- State license is required to practice in Louisiana
- CLS - Laboratory Assistant by LSBME
In accordance with the CHRISTUS Health License, Certification and Registration Verification Policy, all Associates are required to obtain the required certifications for their respective positions within the designated time frame.
Work Schedule:
M-F Days
Work Type:
Full Time
See all OPT Phlebotomist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Phlebotomist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Phlebotomist
Confirm your degree supports phlebotomy OPT
OPT work must be directly related to your major. Clinical laboratory science, medical technology, or health science degrees typically support phlebotomist roles. If your degree is in a tangential field, confirm the connection with your DSO before applying.
Get certified before you start applying
Most employers require a nationally recognized phlebotomy certification, such as NPA or ASCP. Holding certification before applying removes a key hiring objection and signals you're ready to work without additional training or onboarding delays.
Target employers who regularly hire on work authorization
Large hospital systems, national diagnostic networks, and staffing agencies that serve healthcare facilities are more accustomed to work authorization paperwork. Smaller independent clinics may be unfamiliar with OPT and require more upfront education about the process.
Be upfront about your OPT end date
Hiring managers need to plan ahead. Disclosing your OPT expiration date early, along with your H-1B visa cap-gap or STEM extension eligibility, helps employers understand how long you can work and what next steps would look like.
Highlight hands-on clinical hours in your application
Employers want evidence you can perform draws independently. Quantify your clinical rotation experience with specific hours, patient volumes, and settings covered. Concrete numbers replace vague claims and give hiring managers confidence in your practical readiness.
Apply to STEM OPT extension-eligible programs if applicable
If your degree is in a qualifying STEM field, you may be eligible for a 24-month OPT extension, giving you up to three years of work authorization. Employers who are hesitant about short timelines respond better when you can offer this runway.
Phlebotomist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a phlebotomist on OPT?
Yes, as long as your phlebotomist role is directly related to your field of study. Clinical laboratory science, medical technology, and health science degrees typically support this connection. Your DSO must authorize OPT before you begin work, and your employment must align with the major listed on your I-20. You can browse open phlebotomist roles on Migrate Mate.
Do phlebotomist employers typically sponsor work visas after OPT?
Some do, particularly large hospital systems and national laboratory networks that have established HR processes for immigration sponsorship. Smaller clinics often lack the infrastructure to file H-1B petitions. Your strongest path is targeting employers who have sponsored similar clinical roles in the past and raising the conversation early in the hiring process.
Does a phlebotomist job qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your degree is in a STEM-designated field, such as clinical laboratory science or biological sciences, you may qualify for a 24-month extension beyond your initial 12-month OPT period. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO and check the official STEM designation list to verify eligibility.
What certifications do I need to get hired as a phlebotomist on OPT?
Most U.S. employers require certification from a recognized body such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA). Some states also require a state-level license or permit. Completing certification before your job search removes a significant hiring barrier and demonstrates you meet the same standards as any domestic candidate.
How many hours can I work as a phlebotomist on OPT?
During your authorized OPT period, you can work full time with no hourly restriction. However, you must maintain employment that is directly related to your degree field and must report changes in employer or work address to your DSO within required timeframes. Unemployment periods during OPT are capped at 90 days for standard OPT and 150 days for STEM OPT extension.