A phlebotomist is a trained professional having experience of drawing blood and storing it for analysis purposes. The duties of phlebotomists include drawing blood, storing of samples, labeling of samples and analyzing it. Well trained and certified individuals have better chance of getting good phlebotomy jobs compared to those who do not have certification.

A phlebotomist is required to possess complete knowledge of phlebotomy field and is also expected to have excellent communication skills. This is because phlebotomists are required to interact with patients during and after the extraction procedures. While certification is only compulsory in two states in United States it is advisable to get certification as it improves the jobs prospects.

Most of the phlebotomy jobs are available in hospitals, laboratories and private clinics. Blood donation centers and nursing homes also require phlebotomists. Trained phlebotomists may also work as veterinary technicians. These hospitals and clinics require individuals to have phlebotomy certification along with experience in the field. The certification can be attained through institutes like National Phlebotomy association or American Society for Clinical Pathologists.

Some advanced phlebotomy jobs may need some additional training which may include getting Bachelor of Science degree in Medical technology. Some additional skills may also help individuals to work in supervisory positions in this field. Some phlebotomists continue getting further education which may include PhD in medicine, chemistry or microbiology and such individuals can get jobs in biotechnology firms, pharmacology companies and top class private laboratories.

Phlebotomy jobs are ideal for individuals interested in patient care within the health care sector. In some cases the phlebotomist may be required to work overtime or the job may require travelling and salary in such cases is dependent on the work hours as well as responsibilities. On an average a phlebotomist can earn around $28000 and the salary increases with increasing experience.