Specimen Processor

Job Summary

The Specimen Processor is responsible for providing technical, clerical, and operational support across multiple laboratory sections, including Chemistry, Hematology/Coagulation, Blood Bank, Microbiology, and Urinalysis. This role ensures smooth lab operations by receiving and processing specimens, entering patient and test data, coordinating with providers and pathology teams, and supporting patients and staff. As a key liaison, the Specimen Processor facilitates effective communication between the laboratory, hospital departments, and external partners, while maintaining compliance with safety protocols and documentation standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Receives specimens from patients, general practitioners, couriers, and transport systems.

• Registers patient demographics and test orders into the laboratory information system.

• Processes and handles problem samples according to established protocols.

• Prioritizes urgent cases such as traumas, STATs, strokes, and inpatient/outpatient needs.

• Promptly directs phlebotomists to STAT blood collections upon notification.

• Handles specimens with sub-optimal labeling or quality, ensuring proper documentation and notification of appropriate personnel.

• Traces and retrieves test results from providers and pathology departments.

• Scans surgical pathology results to PathGroup and assist with data retrieval.

• Responds to inquiries from physicians, nurses, and medical staff regarding test results, specimen requirements, and collection procedures.

• Provides support and information to patients and staff via phone or in person, including those with disabilities or language barriers.

• Operates pneumatic tube systems for specimen and supply distribution.

• Accurately obtains reference lab testing information and enter order codes.

• Retrieves, prints, and distributes test results as needed.

• Performs general reception duties including handling deliveries and coordinating with transport staff.

• Maintains cleanliness of work areas and follow proper waste disposal procedures.

• Completes and signs Chain of Custody forms as required.

• Verifies licensure and signatures of non-staff physicians for compliance.

• Maintains a clean, organized, and professional work environment while demonstrating a positive and respectful attitude.

• May perform venipuncture as needed.

Skills and Attributes:

• Requires critical thinking skills and decisive judgment.

• Works under minimal supervision.

• Must be able to work in a stressful environment and take appropriate action.

Position Requirements:

Work Experience

• A minimum of 1-year relevant experience required.

Education

• High school diploma, General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or higher required upon hire   

Licensure/Certification/Registration

• A certification in Phlebotomy such as (CPT, PBT or RPT) from a certified program as determined by the organization preferred OR

• A certification as a Laboratory Assistant such as (CLA, MLA or MLT) from a certified program as determined by the organization preferred.

Organizational Responsibilities:

• Supports Owensboro Health’s Mission, Vision, Core Commitments, and business interests.  Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures. Executes all tasks and behaves in a manner consistent with a culture of compliance, safety and high reliability organization.

Additional Job Information:

• This job description describes the general nature and level of work required by the position. It is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of qualifications, skills, duties, responsibilities or working conditions of the job. Specific duties and responsibilities consistent with the general nature and level of work described may vary by department and additional related duties may be assigned as needed. Some duties listed may not apply to all employees with this job description. 

• The job description is subject to change with or without notice, and Management reserves the right to add, modify or remove any qualification or duty. Nothing in this job description changes the existing at-will employment relationship between the Organization and the employee occupying the position.

Standard ADA Settings:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands: (Clinical-Office/Clinic)

Standing: Frequently

Walking: Frequently

Sitting: Occasionally

Lifting 0-25 lbs.: Rarely

Lifting 25-75 lbs.: Rarely

Lifting over 75 lbs.: Rarely

Carrying 0-25 lbs.: Rarely

Carrying 25-75 lbs.: Rarely

Carrying over 75 lbs.: Rarely

Pushing/Pulling 0-25 lbs.: Frequently

Pushing/Pulling 25-75 lbs.: Occasionally

Pushing/Pulling over 75 lbs.: Occasionally

Climbing: Occasionally

Bending/Stooping: Frequently

Kneeling: Occasionally

Crouching/Crawling: Occasionally

Reaching: Frequently

Talking: Frequently

Hearing: Frequently

Repetitive Foot/Leg Movements: Rarely

Repetitive Hand/Arm Movements: Frequently

Keyboard Data Entry: Frequently

Running: Rarely

Vision: Depth Perception: Frequently

Vision: Distinguish Color: Frequently

Vision: Seeing Far: Frequently

Vision: Seeing Near: Frequently

Hazardous Drug Risk Exposure:

Risk Level: Low-Risk

Owensboro Health Core Commitments

INTEGRITY - We conduct ourselves with a high level of responsibility, reliability and honesty because we take seriously the trust of our patients and coworkers.

RESPECT - We value and accept the unique talents and contributions of every patient, customer and team member in the Owensboro Health community.

TEAMWORK - We build a spirit of connectivity and fellowship by striving together to overcome obstacles, surpass goals, celebrate accomplishments and plan the future.

INNOVATION - We foster original ideas and creative solutions that improve our daily work and promote the mission of Owensboro Health.

SERVICE - We focus on service to patients, customers and team members by anticipating their needs, thoughtfully meeting those needs and continually improving the quality of everything we do.

EXCELLENCE - We reach beyond basic expectations to expand our knowledge and awareness, produce exceptional work and provide outstanding service.