LT3: Specimen Receiving and Pre-analytical Processing

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS•Austin, TX

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Works under limited supervision of the Newborn Screening (NBS) Specimen Receiving Group Manager with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Receives and processes specimens received by the Laboratory Services Section (LSS). Verifies work of co-workers and ensures accuracy and integrity of daily reports and related data for specimens. Distributes specimens, samples, and forms as needed. Performs tasks on priority or critical specimens as assigned. May assist team leads on troubleshooting, new employee training, and other required Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures. Provides customer service. Follows all QA/QC procedures and reports any errors and problems to Team Leads or Managers. Performs other duties as assigned, including COOP activation.

Requirements

Knowledge of Microbiological and chemical principles and terminology.
Skill in: The operation of computers and applicable computer software.
Ability to: Follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to: Follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.
Ability to: Handle specimens and samples quickly, accurately, and safely.
Ability to: Self-direct in the absence of detailed instruction or supervision.
Ability to: Communicate effectively with co-workers and the public.
Ability to: Solve technical problems.
Ability to: Work cooperatively in a team setting.
Ability to: Enter data into a computer quickly and accurately.
Ability to: Lift, push, pull and carry packages/boxes/coolers up to 50 lbs repeatedly throughout the day; for all packages over 50 lbs, assistance is required.
Ability to: Multitask and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
Ability to: Train co-workers.
Ability to: Make independent decisions based on policies and procedures.
Must have a valid Class C Texas driver’s license or equivalent from another state. Must be indicated on application.
Work hours other than 8 am – 5 pm, weekends, and holidays, as indicated by application.
Transport ("travel") samples and/or specimens up to 5% of the time, as indicated by application.
Associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in microbiological, chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution OR
Experience in pre-analytical processing or accessioning of samples or specimens in a clinical, research, or environmental laboratory OR
Experience in providing customer service.

Responsibilities

Receives and processes specimens and samples received at the laboratory, including but not limited to microbiological, clinical chemistry, and environmental specimens/samples. Sorts, determines pre-analytical acceptability, and assigns lab numbers for all specimens/samples that are suitable for DSHS laboratory testing. Ensures that all requisition forms are properly completed. Checks and verifies accuracy of work performed by others. Completes specimen and form processing by deadlines set forth in Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Manuals (35%)
Performs assigned tasks including but not limited to processing unsatisfactory specimens, abnormal specimens, and packaging/delivery of specimens. Uses various Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to enter test requests, search for patient demographic information, and track information for cataloging and auditing purposes. Completes and documents all required quality control (QC) steps as defined in SOP for assigned procedures. Responsible for ensuring daily reports are completed for QC purposes. Completes and documents all required quality control (QC) steps as defined in SOP for assigned procedures. (20%)
Performs assigned tasks including but not limited to processing unsatisfactory specimens and abnormal specimens. Uses various Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to enter test requests, search for patient demographic information, and track information for cataloging and auditing purposes. Completes and documents all required quality control (QC) steps, reports, and documents, as defined in SOP for assigned check-in procedures. (20%)
Provides customer service. Ensures that customer needs are met regarding the handling of specimens. Greets customers and records packages received by carriers, USPS, or hand deliveries. Provides information to providers and submitters according to SOPs. Assists Team Lead and Group Manager to solve logistical and technical problems. (10%)
Tasks require the ability to lift, push, pull and carry packages, boxes, and/or coolers up to 50 lbs. repeatedly throughout the day. For all packages over 50 lbs., assistance is required. Deliver or pick up packages, boxes, and/or coolers via state vehicle. Safe operation of a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business, and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS Policy OS-3901, Fleet Operations and Management & Procedures and standards developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (10%)
Performs other duties assigned, including but not limited to actively participating and/or serving a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternative shift pattern assignment, and/or location. (5%)

Benefits

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS).

Stand Out From the Crowd

Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.

Upload and Match Resume