Description

UPMC Mercy is hiring a Senior Specimen Processor or Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Laboratory! This role will be scheduled night shift with rotating weekends and holidays. If you're someone who has medical terminology knowledge, basic computer skills, and customer service skills, we want to hear from you!

UPMC is Pennsylvania’s largest nongovernmental employer with endless opportunities. We offer a competitive benefits package that few employers can match and have a career ladder in place that provides growth opportunities for lab associates to enjoy more professional challenges, promotional opportunities, and career enhancement! Apply today to find out where your career can take you!
 
Applicants will be placed into the appropriate job title and salary based on their individual experience and education. The Senior Specimen Processor salary starts at $16.04/hour.

Purpose:
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.

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.

Qualifications

Senior Specimen Processor:

• High school graduate.
• Two years of experience as a laboratory specimen processor (preferably in the host laboratory) in order to acquire a thorough knowledge of sectional policies and procedures.
• Effective troubleshooting and interpersonal skills.

Specimen Processor:

• 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.
• 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

Total Rewards

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Our Values

At UPMC, we’re driven by shared values that guide our work and keep us accountable to one another. Our Values of Quality & Safety, Dignity & Respect, Caring & Listening, Responsibility & Integrity, Excellence & Innovation play a vital role in creating a cohesive, positive experience for our employees, patients, health plan members, and community. Ready to join us? Apply today.