Specimen Processing Clerk I - Liquid Profiling

Caris MPI, Inc.; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Caris Life Sciences in Phoenix, AZ is seeking a Specimen Processing Clerk I to support accessioning and clinical case creation under supervision, learning CLIA/CAP/NYS regulations, and following lab procedures. This role offers growth within a precision medicine environment.

You will open incoming specimens, manage cases, ensure accurate labeling, perform data entry in the LIMS, maintain records, and assist with inventory and QA/QC. Tue–Sat shifts required.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; Word, Excel and Outlook.
• General Internet usage for business purposes.
• Able to work Tuesday–Saturday 10:00am–6:30pm.

Responsibilities

• Open packages and video receipt of all incoming specimens for clinical processing.
• Create and manage patient cases including setting up new cases and updating current ones.
• Enter specimens in the case, attach documents, and perform QC checks for accuracy.
• Open and close discrepancies to ensure timely, accurate processing.
• Collaborate with Client Services, IHC, PAs, Pathologists and Reporting.
• Maintain filing, tracking, retrieval, and record keeping.
• Ensure correct patient labeling and diagnostic viability of all specimens.
• Log information into the laboratory information system and perform QA/QC.

Skills

Microsoft Office Suite

Word

Excel

Outlook

Attention to detail

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

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.
• Work cross-functionally with various departments including Client Services, IHC, PAs, Pathologists and Reporting.
• 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 Tuesday-Saturday 10:00am-6:30pm.

Preferred Qualifications

• One to three years of experience in general laboratory operations preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to take and follow direction and to know who the resources are for their direction.
• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
• Displays enthusiasm and dedication to meeting group objectives.
• Can execute tasks with a strong attention to detail.
• Drive for Results (Service, Quality, and Continuous Improvement) - Ensure procedures and processes are in place that lead to delivery of quality results and continually reassess their effectiveness to achieve continuous improvement.
• Communication - Proficient verbal and written communication skills and willingness to share and receive information and ideas from all levels of the organization in order to achieve the desired results.
• Teamwork - Commitment to the successful achievement of team and organizational goals through a desire to participate with and help other members of the team.
• Customer Service Focus - Demonstrate a focus on listening to and understanding client/customer needs and then delighting the client/customer by exceeding service and quality expectations.
• Ability to work under routine and stressful situations in an accurate and timely manner.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures for biohazards and chemicals, as well as quality control procedures and regulations.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven attention to detail with effective organizational skills.
• Effective interpersonal and team skills.

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.

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.

Caris Life Sciences is a leading innovator in molecular science and artificial intelligence focused on fulfilling the promise of precision medicine through quality and innovation.

Caris is committed to quality and excellence at our state-of-the-art laboratories.

Learn more about our tissue lab and the advanced technologies that are helping improve the lives of cancer patients.