Specimen Processor

UPMC; Altoona, Northern (PA, KY); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

UPMC is seeking a Specimen Processor for a full-time evening shift in Altoona, PA. The role includes orientation of new staff, careful specimen handling, and timely delivery to testing areas. Must follow biosafety rules and ensure accurate labeling and tracking, with weekend/holiday rotation as needed.

This unionized position emphasizes compliance with all health, safety, and laboratory policies while providing excellent customer service and cross-department collaboration.

Qualifications

• Requires attention to detail and ability to handle biological samples safely.
• Experience with lab safety regulations and proper specimen handling.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Orientation and training of new lab staff and students.
• Follow health, safety, and infection control rules for biohazard samples.
• Prepare, package, and send specimens to outside locations as needed.
• Deliver specimens promptly to testing areas and monitor courier deliveries.
• Verify patient identification, labeling, and specimen integrity.

Job description

Specimen Processor

Fulltime 40 hours - Evening position - with rotation as needed - Holiday/Weekend rotation

AFSCME union

Posted: September 10, 2026

Responsibilities

• Participates in the orientation and training of new laboratory employees and students. Performs related clerical duties as directed.
• Follows all regulations regarding health and safety concerning the handling of Biohazard or Sharps patient samples and the disinfection of the work area. Uses the utmost care to prevent personal exposure and avoid environmental contamination.
• Observes all laboratory and hospital safety, infection control and compliance regulations and policies.
• Notifies supervisor of problems and of any requests that need credited or clarified. Requests assistance when needed.
• Completes quality forms for unacceptable specimens, for requesting errors, or for other problems.
• Effectively handles any complaints or reports of problems. Investigates and resolves any requesting mistakes or other specimen problems.
• Prepares, packages and sends specimens to outside locations as needed
• Promptly delivers specimens to the respective testing areas.
• Measures, aliquots, and distributes urine samples when needed.
• Separates serum and plasma from red blood cells by centrifugation. Labels aliquot tubes and transfers serum or plasma according to policy. Stores samples at the appropriate temperature. Shares specimens interdepartmentally as necessary.
• Ensures adequacy of patient identification / labeling as well as sample type and stability.
• Determines and enters the correct specimen collection and receive time into the computer where needed.
• Verifies patient specimens such as blood, urine and other body fluids with any requisitions, bar codes or labels making certain that information on the specimens match any paperwork received, and that all submissions are appropriate for the work requested.
• Receives, sorts and prioritizes all specimens according to laboratory policies.
• Monitors pneumatic tube and / or courier sample deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens.
• Uses good customer service and conversation etiquette while answering the telephone. Responds professionally to inquiries concerning proper specimen collection, patient results, normal values, and basic laboratory operations information as needed. Transfers calls to appropriate parties when appropriate.
• Interacts courteously and professionally with all customers and laboratory staff.
• Shows initiative and offers assistance in the completion of the department's work.