Lab Specimen Processor

Frederick Health • Frederick, MD

8h • $20 - $28

About The Position

Frederick Health is seeking a full-time Lab Specimen Processor to support clinical laboratory technical staff in delivering medical laboratory information used in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 1:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., with every other weekend and holiday.

The processor receives, identifies, sorts, prioritizes, processes, and distributes specimens to the appropriate laboratory sections. Work includes entering requisition and collection information into the computer system, verifying specimens against requisitions or labels, preparing specimens for testing or shipment, and addressing specimen or paperwork problems. The role also involves routine technical and clerical tasks, maintaining a clean work area, following hospital and laboratory policies, and handling biohazardous materials safely.

This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent. One to two years of experience is preferred, particularly in a healthcare-related field. The employee must complete on-the-job training provided by the supervisor within the probationary period unless an extension is granted by the laboratory manager. The job is sedentary to light work, with occasional lifting up to 15 pounds and periods of sitting, standing, and walking. The role has bloodborne pathogen exposure risk and repetitive-motion ergonomic risks.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic computer knowledge and ability to pass a data entry test.
• Demonstrated manual dexterity and good communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment and meet established turnaround times.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately identify specimens.
• Ability to sit and/or stand and remain mobile for extended periods.
• Comfort handling biological specimens.
• Flexibility to work overtime as needed.
• Must satisfactorily complete supervisor-provided on-the-job training within the probationary period unless an extension is granted by the laboratory manager.

Nice To Haves

• One to two years of experience, preferably in a healthcare-related field.

Responsibilities

• Receive, sort, identify, process, prioritize, and distribute specimens to the appropriate technical sections and laboratory departments.
• Enter requisition information and specimen collection and receipt details accurately into the computer system and Laboratory Information System.
• Demonstrate courtesy, respect, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude; show initiative and assist with completing departmental work.
• Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely specimen processing and delivery.
• Investigate and resolve specimen mistakes or other specimen problems, complete quality forms for unacceptable specimens or errors, and notify the supervisor of problems or requests requiring credit or clarification.
• Separate specimens by centrifugation, label appropriate aliquot tubes, transfer specimens according to policy, and store samples at the appropriate temperature.
• Answer telephone inquiries about proper specimen collection.
• Follow health and safety regulations when handling biohazardous patient samples and sharps to prevent exposure.
• Verify patient specimens, including blood, urine, and other body fluids, against requisitions or labels and ensure the information matches the paperwork and correct specimen.
• Prepare, package, and send specimens to outside locations as needed.
• Share specimens and complete associated paperwork, including the shared specimen log, as necessary.
• Disinfect the work area during and after the shift as needed.
• Participate in orientation and training of new laboratory specimen processors.
• Perform routine technical and clerical duties as directed, including checking pending items for outstanding specimens, daily temperature checks, and centrifuge maintenance.
• Follow standard hospital policies.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, effective the first of the month after 30 days of employment.
• Employer-paid life insurance, short-term income replacement, and long-term disability for eligible employees.
• Paid Time Off program for eligible employees.
• 403(b) retirement plan with an employer match for eligible employees.
• Free financial planning sessions available to all employees.
• Educational assistance program.
• Employer-paid Employee Assistance Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED