Specimen Processor

About the Role

UPMC Chautauqua is hiring a Specimen Processor to join the lab team. This position is casual, with availability needed for day and evening hours, including weekends.

Key Responsibilities

• 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 the phone, and code charge slips.
• Train new employees and perform related clerical duties.
• Demonstrate a service orientation approach by conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude.
• Show initiative and offer assistance in the completion of department work.
• Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens.
• Investigate and resolve requesting mistakes or other specimen problems; request assistance when needed.
• Complete quality forms for unacceptable specimens, requesting errors, or other problems.
• Separate specimens 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, results, 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 (e.g., blood, urine, other body fluids) with requisitions or labels, ensuring that information matches.
• Request information in the Laboratory Information System if needed.
• Prepare, package, and send specimens to outside locations as needed.
• Receive, sort, and prioritize all specimens according to 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.
• Participate in the orientation and training of new laboratory specimen processors.
• Perform routine technical and related clerical duties as directed.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Medical Terminology knowledge or experience.
• Laboratory Information Systems knowledge or experience.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with all age groups and populations, both by telephone and in person.

Qualifications

• Three to six months of experience in a clinical laboratory, physician's office, or other medical environment preferred.
• Three to six months of experience in a service environment (e.g., call center, customer service center, product distribution/fulfillment center) preferred.
• NYS Staff Exclusion List (NYSEL)