Lead Specimen Processor

United WestLabs; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

United WestLabs in Tacoma, WA is seeking a Lead Specimen Processor to oversee the specimen processing area, ensuring timely, accurate handling and compliance with safety and quality standards.

In this role you will lead staff, provide training, coordinate workflow across shifts, monitor LIS, labeling, accessioning, and routing, and serve as liaison with couriers and client services.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience overseeing specimen processing teams
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, detail-oriented lab environment

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the activities of specimen processing staff.
• Provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback to team members.
• Ensure adequate staffing and workflow coverage during all shifts.
• Monitor specimen intake, labeling, accessioning, and routing to testing departments.
• Troubleshoot issues with specimen integrity, labeling, and test requisitions.
• Maintain accurate records of processing activities; perform courier duties if needed.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory policies and regulatory standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Detail-oriented

Education

Associate degree in science

Tools

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

Job description

The Lead Specimen Processor is responsible for overseeing the operations of the specimen processing area to ensure timely, accurate, and efficient handling of laboratory specimens. This role serves as a liaison between laboratory staff, couriers, and other departments, ensuring compliance with quality standards, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Oversight

• Lead and coordinate the activities of specimen processing staff.
• Provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback to team members.
• Ensure adequate staffing and workflow coverage during all shifts.

Operational Duties

• Monitor specimen intake, labeling, accessioning, and routing to appropriate testing departments.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to specimen integrity, labeling discrepancies, and test requisitions.
• Maintain accurate records and logs of specimen processing activities.
• Perform the duties of a courier if called upon

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to laboratory policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
• Participate in improvement initiatives.
• Conduct audits and assist with corrective actions as needed.
• Serve as the point of contact for internal and external inquiries related to specimen processing.
• Collaborate with laboratory supervisors, couriers, and client services to resolve issues.
• Communicate updates and changes in procedures to staff effectively.

Inventory & Equipment

• Monitor and maintain inventory of supplies used in specimen processing.
• Ensure equipment is functioning properly and coordinate maintenance or repairs.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in a science-related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a clinical laboratory or specimen processing environment.
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of laboratory information systems (LIS) and specimen handling protocols.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment.

Work Conditions

• May require standing for extended periods and handling biological specimens.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
• Shift work, weekends, and holidays are required.

Physical Requirements

• Continuous sitting (up to 8 hrs/day)
• Continuous walking/standing (up to 8 hrs/day)
• Simple grasping with both hands
• Fine manipulation with both hands, repetitive movement
• Frequent lifting of 10 lb. or less

Additional Requirements

• Clean driving record and the ability to provide proof of personal vehicle insurance
• Applicants may be required undergo background and drug screening, in accordance with federal and state laws