Specimen Processor

Are you someone with customer service, retail distribution, or similar experience looking to get into the medical field, but not sure where to start? An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step for you!

UPMC Shadyside is hiring a casual (per diem) Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab! This role will work daylight shifts with varied start times between 4:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m..

The Specimen Processor role is the gatekeeper for all specimens that come to the laboratory for testing and is essential to ensuring the accuracy of patient samples. Responsibilities include hands-on aliquoting of body fluid specimens, learning and utilizing the test code database, communicating with nurses and physicians about patient orders, and timely delivery of specimens under the proper conditions to the correct locations. This role has many unique job responsibilities that make it an interesting and fantastic entry position into laboratory medicine. All you need is a high school diploma, great attention to detail, and a willingness to learn the processes and procedures of a clinical hospital laboratory.  This role can also be the foundation for acquiring the title of Medical Laboratory Scientist. We are willing to train dedicated workers to move up the career ladder within our laboratories. Laboratory positions are available for all levels of experience, from high school diplomas to bachelor's degrees and beyond.

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:

• Act 34
  
   

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran