If you’re a certified phlebotomist looking to combine your skills with the excitement of travel, then a career as a travel phlebotomist might be perfect. Travel phlebotomy allows healthcare professionals to explore new locations while filling in-demand positions at various healthcare facilities. But how exactly do you find travel phlebotomy jobs? This guide will discuss the best ways to locate these positions and how to make yourself a competitive candidate.
What is a Travel Phlebotomist?
Before diving into how to find travel phlebotomy jobs, it’s essential to understand the role. Travel phlebotomists are certified professionals who collect blood samples from patients but are not limited to a single facility. They work on temporary assignments in different locations, often filling staffing shortages or providing support in underserved areas. Travel phlebotomy positions can range from short-term to long-term assignments, offering flexibility, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work in various healthcare environments.
Start with Travel Healthcare Staffing Agencies
The easiest and most reliable way to find travel phlebotomy jobs is through healthcare staffing agencies specializing in placing traveling professionals. These agencies partner with hospitals, clinics, and labs nationwide and help match phlebotomists with available temporary positions. Here’s how to get started:
- Top Travel Healthcare Agencies: Some leading agencies that place travel phlebotomists include AMN Healthcare, Club Staffing, and Aureus Medical Group. These companies often handle the logistics, including travel arrangements and housing, making the transition smoother for professionals.
- Create a Profile: Once you choose an agency, create a detailed profile showcasing your qualifications, experience, and assignment preferences. Be sure to include any specialty areas in phlebotomy that may make you more attractive to potential employers.
- Submit Applications: Travel agencies typically post open positions on their websites, allowing you to apply directly for jobs that match your skills and preferences. Agencies may also reach out with specific opportunities tailored to your profile.
Look for Direct Hospital or Clinic Postings
While agencies are a great way to secure travel phlebotomy jobs, some healthcare facilities directly post their travel phlebotomist vacancies. Large hospital systems or lab networks often have internal needs for temporary staff and may post job openings on their websites.
- Search Job Boards: Visit hospital and clinic websites for “temporary phlebotomist” or “contract phlebotomist” positions. Major health networks may have entire departments dedicated to temporary staffing and often provide in-house travel opportunities.
- Job Search Platforms: General job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn can also have postings for travel phlebotomists. You can set alerts to notify you of new job postings related to travel phlebotomy positions, making it easier to stay updated on new opportunities.
Network with Other Healthcare Professionals
Networking remains one of the most effective ways to learn about job opportunities, especially in specialized fields like travel phlebotomy. By connecting with other healthcare professionals, recruiters, or phlebotomists, you may find travel job leads that are only sometimes advertised.
- Phlebotomy Groups and Forums: Join professional phlebotomy groups on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Reddit. These communities often share job openings and valuable tips about working as a travel phlebotomist. Other professionals may recommend agencies or assignments they’ve enjoyed.
- Healthcare Conferences: Attending healthcare or phlebotomy-specific conferences is a great way to meet recruiters and network with other professionals. Conferences may feature booths from travel agencies or employers looking for temporary staff, offering on-the-spot interviews or informational sessions about their job openings.
Certifications and Specialization: Stand Out as a Candidate
To be a competitive travel phlebotomist, you must ensure your current certifications and consider additional qualifications that may open up more job opportunities.
- Certifications: Most employers prefer or require travel phlebotomists to be certified through a recognized organization such as the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA), American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), or American Medical Technologists (AMT). Certification increases your chances of being hired and makes you more competitive for higher-paying positions.
- Specializations: Additional skills or certifications, such as working with pediatric patients or experience in a blood bank setting, can give you an edge over other candidates. Highlighting these specializations in your applications and profile can make you more attractive to potential employers.
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Consider Rural or Underserved Areas
Travel phlebotomists are often needed in rural or underserved areas where healthcare facilities may have difficulty attracting full-time staff. These areas may offer more opportunities for travel work, often with added incentives such as higher pay or bonuses for accepting assignments in less desirable locations.
- Government Programs: Some government-run healthcare facilities or programs offer travel positions, particularly in remote areas. Check with organizations like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Indian Health Service for potential travel phlebotomist opportunities.
- Mobile Clinics: Another growing area for travel phlebotomists is mobile clinics, which provide healthcare services to remote or underserved populations. These positions often involve travel and may offer a fulfilling way to help needy communities.
FAQs About Finding Travel Phlebotomy Jobs
What qualifications do I need to become a travel phlebotomist?
To become a travel phlebotomist, you must complete a phlebotomy training program and obtain certification from an accredited body such as the ASCP, NPA, or AMT. Additionally, most travel jobs require at least 1-2 years of experience working in the field before qualifying for travel assignments.
How much do travel phlebotomists make?
Travel phlebotomists generally earn more than stationary phlebotomists, thanks to the temporary nature of their work and the high demand for travel professionals. The average salary ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and the specific agency or employer.
What’s the best way to find travel phlebotomy jobs?
The best way to find travel phlebotomy jobs is through specialized healthcare staffing agencies. Agencies like AMN Healthcare or Club Staffing can match you with temporary positions that fit your preferences. Networking and checking job boards are also effective strategies.
Do travel phlebotomy jobs come with benefits?
Many travel phlebotomy positions offer additional benefits, such as housing allowances, travel reimbursements, and health insurance. These perks make travel assignments even more appealing, especially when working with reputable agencies.
Can I choose where I want to travel for work?
While travel phlebotomy jobs are available nationwide, your options may depend on demand in specific regions. However, working with an agency can give you more control over which locations or assignments you prefer, allowing for flexibility in your career.
Conclusion
Finding travel phlebotomy jobs can be an exciting opportunity to combine your career with the love of travel. By using travel healthcare staffing agencies, networking with professionals, and staying proactive in your job search, you can unlock flexible and rewarding job opportunities that fit your lifestyle. With competitive pay, the chance to explore new places, and the ability to gain varied work experience, a career as a travel phlebotomist could be the perfect fit for you.
