Specimen Processing Clerk I

Caris Life Sciences; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Caris Life Sciences is seeking a Specimen Processing Clerk I to support clerical tasks and accession clinical cases. You will learn applicable regulations and work under a supervisor within standard lab procedures.

Responsibilities include handling incoming specimens, case setup, labeling, QA/QC, and collaboration across departments to ensure accurate processing and recordkeeping.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Proficient with Word, Excel, Outlook; internet for business use.
• Availability: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday 2pm–12:30am.

Responsibilities

• Open packages and video receipt of all incoming specimens for clinical processing.
• Create and manage patient cases, including setting up and updating cases and entering specimens.
• Ensure accurate labeling and QC for all specimens and documentation.
• Maintain inventory and collaborate with multiple departments as needed.
• Recordkeeping and adherence to lab procedures and policies.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Time management

Attention to detail

Communication

Education

High School diploma

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Outlook

Laboratory information system

Job description

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That’s why we’re not just transforming cancer care—we’re changing lives. We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: “What would I do if this patient were my mom?” That question drives everything we do. But our mission doesn’t stop with cancer. We're pushing the frontiers of medicine and leading a revolution in healthcare—driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose. Join us in our mission to improve the human condition across multiple diseases. If you're passionate about meaningful work and want to be part of something bigger than yourself, Caris is where your impact begins.

Position Summary

The Specimen Processing Clerk I is responsible for supporting the department with all clerical and ancillary duties in creating and accessioning clinical cases for patient output. While maintaining job functions, the Specimen Processing Clerk is to progress in their learning of the regulations (CLIA, CAP and NYS) which the laboratory functions. This position works under the direction of the Supervisor and follows standard laboratory procedures and policies.

Job Responsibilities

• Open packages and video receipt of all incoming specimens for clinical processing.
• Creates and manages patient cases including the setting up of new cases, updating current cases, entering of specimens in case, attaching relevant documents, Quality Control checking information for accuracy and other case management tasks.
• Opens and closes specimen and case discrepancies to ensure accurate information and processing of specimens in a timely fashion.
• Works cross-functionally with various departments including Customer Support, Molecular - Liquid Profiling, Compliance, Reporting, Patient Billing, PA's, Pharma Research Operations, and Biorepository.
• Responsible for filing, tracking, retrieval, and accurate record keeping.
• Maintains diagnostic viability of all specimens and ensures correct patient labeling of all materials. Routinely checks and verifies accuracy of all information in laboratory information system.
• Records in laboratory logs all specimens prepared. Logs appropriate information into the laboratory information system.
• Responsible for Quality Assurance (QA)/Quality Control (QC) for all cases, specimens and documentation.
• Maintains Supply Inventory, including package receiving and supply chain requests, and submitting orders to Purchasing department, in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Assists as needed to perform other related duties and special projects to support the laboratory as required.
• Accepts other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, Outlook, and general working knowledge of Internet for business use.
• Able to work Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday 2pm-12:30am.

Preferred Qualifications

• One to three years of experience in general laboratory operations preferred.

Physical Demands

• Will work at a computer some of the time as well as need to keep inventory and ordering records requiring the use of copiers, fax machines, and PDF scanners.
• Visual acuity and analytical skill to distinguish fine detail. Ability to pass a visual color discrimination test.
• Manual dexterity to use common laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques as required.
• Must possess ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
• Must possess ability to perform repetitive motion.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• May have exposure to high noise levels in the data center, fumes and bio-hazardous material in the lab environment. Exposure to formaldehyde, xylene, DAB and alcohol which emit fumes. The formaldehyde, xylene, and DAB are carcinogenic.
• Required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
• May have exposure to extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes and bio-hazardous material/chemicals including formalin in the lab environment.

Required Training

• All job specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on the job functions associated with this employee.

Other

• This position requires periodic travel and some evenings, weekends and/or Holidays.

Conditions of Employment

Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check ( applicable for certain positions) and reference verification.

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Caris Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.