Specimen Processor

UPMC; Cumberland (MD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

UPMC Western Maryland is seeking a Specimen Processor to join the laboratory team. The role involves receiving, sorting, identifying, processing, and distributing specimens, and entering requisition information and patient results into the LIS.

The position requires teamwork and strong communication, with responsibilities including handling phone inquiries and training new staff. The role operates primarily in the 1:45 pm to 10:15 pm shift, with every third weekend and holiday required.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• 3–6 months of experience in a clinical laboratory, physician's office, or other medical environment preferred.
• Good oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate service orientation by conveying courtesy, respect and a positive attitude in all work situations.
• Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens.
• Investigate and resolve specimen problems and errors; complete quality forms as needed.
• Verify patient specimens with requisitions or labels; ensure matching information across paperwork.
• Receive, sort and prioritize all specimens according to department policies; notify supervisor of issues.

Skills

Communication skills

Customer service

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Laboratory Information System (LIS)

Job description

UPMC Western Maryland is looking for a Specimen Processor! This position will cover the processing area of the Laboratory. The Specimen Processor will receive, sort, identify, process, and distribute specimens to all technical sections. Enter requisition information and patient results into the computer system; call statistical results, answer phone, code charge slips, train new employees and perform related clerical duties.

This full-time position will primarily cover 1:45 pm to 10:15 pm. Shifts every third weekend and holiday required!

Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate service orientation approach by conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm and a positive attitude in work situations. Show initiative and offer assistance in the completion of the department's work.Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens.

• Investigate and resolve any requesting mistakes or other specimen problems. Request assistance when needed. Complete quality forms for unacceptable specimens, requesting errors or other problems.Separate by centrifugation. Label appropriate aliquot tubes and transfer as defined by policy; store samples at the appropriate temperature.

• Determine and enter the specimen receive time into the computer. Answer all telephone inquiries concerning proper specimen collection, result, and normal range information.Follow all regulations regarding health and safety concerning the handling of biohazardous patient samples or sharps to prevent exposure.

• Verify patient specimens such as blood, urine and other body fluids with requisitions or labels, making certain that information on the specimens match any paperwork received and correct specimen.Properly request in the Laboratory Information System laboratory information system if needed.Prepare, package and send specimens to outside locations as needed.

• Receive, sort and prioritize ALL specimens according to the laboratory policies.Share specimens as necessary. Notify supervisor of problems and of any requests that need credited or clarified.

• Disinfect the work area after shift and during shift, if needed. Participates in the orientation and training of new laboratory specimen processors. Perform routine technical and related clerical duties as directed.

• High School diploma or equivalent.

• Three to six months of experience in a clinical laboratory, physician's office, or other medical environment preferred, including knowledge of or experience in Medical Terminology and Laboratory Information systems.

• Three to six months of experience in a service environment including call center, customer service center, or product distribution/fulfillment center preferred.

• Good oral and written communication skills required. Ability to communicate effectively with all age groups and populations of external and internal customers (as well as co-workers) both by telephone and in person.Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran