Description

UPMC Mercy is hiring a full-time Specimen Processor or Sr. Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab!  This role will work second shift hours, 2 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with rotating weekend and holiday responsibilities.

The Specimen Processor role is the gatekeeper for all specimens that come to the ATL for laboratory testing and is essential to ensuring the accuracy of patient samples for the busy, fully automated laboratory. Additionally, this role has many unique job responsibilities that make it an interesting and fantastic entry position into laboratory medicine.

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:
Receives, identifies, sorts and transports specimens to all technical sections. Maintains laboratory records and copies. Faxes and otherwise distributes laboratory results. Answers telephone calls and responds to requests for test results by physicians and other authorized individuals; directs callers to appropriate laboratory personnel, as necessary. Responds to requests from clients for supplies and specimen collection information. Assist with orienting students and training new employees. Perform related clerical duties. Job duties are not age specific in nature.

Responsibilities:

• Verifies patient specimens such as blood, urine, and other body fluids with any requisitions, bar codes, or labels making certain that information on the specimens matches any paperwork received, and that all submissions are appropriate for the work requested.
• Participates in the orientation and training of new laboratory employees and students.
• Performs related clerical duties as directed.
• Prepares packages and sends specimens to outside locations as needed
• Effectively handles any complaints or reports of problems. Investigates and resolves any requesting mistakes or other specimen problems.
• Follows all regulations regarding health and safety concerning the handling of Biohazard or Sharps patient samples and the disinfection of the work area. Uses the utmost care to prevent personal exposure and avoid environmental contamination.
• Shows initiative and offers assistance in the completion of the department's work.
• Uses good customer service and conversation etiquette while answering the telephone.
• Responds professionally to inquiries concerning proper specimen collection, patient results, normal values, and basic laboratory operations information as needed.
• Transfers calls to appropriate parties when appropriate.
• Monitors pneumatic tube and/or courier sample deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens.
• Receives, sorts and prioritizes all specimens according to laboratory policies.
• Interacts courteously and professionally with all customers and laboratory staff.
• Ensures adequacy of patient identification/labeling as well as sample type and stability.
• Measures, aliquots, and distributes urine samples when needed.
• Separates serum and plasma from red blood cells by centrifugation. Labels aliquot tubes and transfers serum or plasma according to policy.
• Stores samples at the appropriate temperature. Shares specimens interdepartmentally as necessary.
• Demonstrates a service-orientated approach by conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
• Completes quality forms for unacceptable specimens, for requesting errors, or for other problems.
• Notifies supervisor of problems and of any requests that need to be credited or clarified. Requests assistance when needed.
• Determines and enters the correct specimen collection and receive time into the computer where needed.
• Observes all laboratory and hospital safety, infection control and compliance regulations and policies.
• Promptly delivers specimens to the respective testing areas.

Qualifications

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.

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.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

Individuals hired into this role must comply with UPMC’s COVID vaccination requirements upon beginning employment with UPMC. Refer to the COVID-19 Vaccination Information section at the top of this page to learn more. 

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