Specimen Processing Technician (Per Diem)

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 37,800 - 41,500; Full time

Job summary

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston is seeking a Specimen Processing Technician I to process and assure quality for patient specimens. The role requires handling incoming specimens, ensuring their integrity, and entering related data into the Laboratory Information System.

The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills and a high school diploma; a science degree is preferred. Experience in a healthcare or lab setting is advantageous but not required. Join a dedicated team improving patient care!

Qualifications

• High School diploma required; AS or BS in a physical science preferred.
• No experience required; experience in a healthcare or laboratory setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Processes, distributes, and provides quality assurance for patient specimens.
• Performs pre-analytical specimen processing from various sources.
• Receives specimens into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and ensures integrity.
• Documents any specimen or test cancellations and resolves discrepancies.

Skills

Communication skills

Customer service skills

Basic computer proficiency

Ability to work in teams

Multitasking

Education

High School diploma

AS or BS in a physical science

Job description

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in cancer research and patient care.

The Specimen Processing Technician I processes, distributes, and provides quality assurance for all patient specimens.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs pre‑analytical specimen processing: Receives patient specimens from within the institute and outside institutions.
• Becomes familiar with patient and specimen requirements; stores and transports specimens according to procedures; ensures specimen integrity is preserved at all times.
• Unloads and loads the pneumatic tube system and accurately distributes specimens; does routine and stat specimen delivery runs to BWH laboratories; does specimen pickup runs from clinic locations at DFCI.
• Receives specimens into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) by scanning barcodes or manual entry.
• Verifies upon receipt that all samples are labeled according to policy and addresses variances according to policies.
• Documents in the LIS any specimen or test cancellations per policy; contacts the appropriate provider or reference laboratories with questions regarding discrepancies with test orders or specimen containers.
• Processes add‑on tests according to policy.
• Processes tests sent out to reference laboratories; communicates with reference labs as needed.
• Processes specimens by loading the pre‑analytic automation system or via centrifugation, aliquoting, storing, and shipping per test requirements.
• Performs various quality checks to ensure all requests are accurate before dispensing the specimens to the appropriate performing lab.
• Responds to telephone inquiries to assist providers, nurses and other caregivers with lab test, test requirement and result inquiries.
• Performs all duties with accuracy and efficiency to ensure patient care is not compromised.
• Utilizes electronic system for faxed tests results from reference laboratories.
• Reviews pending lists as required; addresses and corrects discrepancies or pending test results by contacting the reference lab and the provider as necessary.
• Processes bone marrow orders and specimens.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Develops knowledge to accurately and efficiently ensure all test requests are in the LIS.
• Understands lab safety policy and procedures and Department of Transportation specimen shipping regulations.
• Develops understanding of specimen processing for all specimen types.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, including phone etiquette; customer service skills.
• Basic proficiency in computer skills – able to perform essential tasks such as using a keyboard and mouse, navigating the operating system, managing files and folders, and using basic software applications like word processors and web browsers.
• Computer skills.
• Ability to work well in a heavily team‑oriented environment.
• Ability to work efficiently and effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Capacity to remain flexible and multitask is key.

Minimum Job Qualifications

• High School diploma required, AS or BS in a physical science preferred.
• 0 years’ experience required; experience in a healthcare or laboratory setting preferred.

License/Certification/Registration Required: None

Supervisory Responsibilities: No

Patient Contact: None

Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

EEO Poster

Pay Transparency Statement: The hiring range is based on market pay structures, with individual salaries determined by factors such as business needs, market conditions, internal equity, and based on the candidate’s relevant experience, skills and qualifications.

For union positions, the pay range is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

$37,800.00 - $41,500.00