SPECIMEN PROCESSING TECHNICIAN (1ST SHIFT)

United States Drug Testing Laboratories•Des Plaines, IL

3d•$20 - $22

About The Position

USDTL is a global leader in forensic toxicology testing for drug- and alcohol-exposed newborns and mothers, as well as other at-risk populations. The company serves hospitals, child protection agencies, the Department of Defense, legal services, businesses, and other organizations. Its work includes testing of umbilical cord, fingernail and hair, and PEth samples, with accurate results intended to support early intervention and help protect and enrich lives. The Specimen Processing Technician works in a production-oriented laboratory environment that emphasizes learning basic laboratory practices, teamwork, communication, and professionalism. The technician performs work in either the Initial Aliquoting or Confirmation Aliquoting job-function module, following in-house training and demonstrating competency under supervision. The role supports downstream testing through accurate specimen handling, aliquoting, documentation, sample preparation, and laboratory housekeeping. This position is not authorized to perform higher-complexity analytical testing or certify test results unless additional qualification and training requirements are met. The schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Requirements

Two or more years of relevant laboratory experience, or an Associate degree in Medical Technology, or a bachelor's degree in science.
Alternatively, candidates may qualify as a Specimen Accessioning Technician II with one year of experience in that role and meeting proficiency, competency, and professionalism standards.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Locate, read, and accurately follow applicable standard operating procedures and laboratory safety requirements for the assigned Initial Aliquoting or Confirmation Aliquoting module.
Comply with HIPAA, personal health information standards, and applicable procedures.
Maintain the laboratory and work area as clean, organized, and safe.
Identify and troubleshoot problems or errors, take corrective action, notify supervisors, and document events.
Follow protocols and contact appropriate staff to resolve problem specimens or forms, including completing follow-up.
After in-house training, demonstrate competency in all aspects of the assigned job-function module under the supervision of a Team Lead or Supervisor.
Complete associated computer and worksheet documentation and make appropriate corrections when necessary.
Complete activities that support job-module team goals.
Complete initial competency requirements and maintain competencies for the assigned aliquoting module, including pipette competencies.
Accurately complete Chain of Custody Worksheets.
Prepare samples for downstream testing and apply good laboratory practices.
Pipette and weigh aliquots accurately according to matrix and test requirements, and record the required information on worksheets.
Maintain sample integrity by correctly labeling aliquots and matching them to original specimen containers; keep apparatus and equipment clean to prevent cross-contamination.
Store samples and aliquots appropriately for matrix and test requirements.
Prepare blind quality-control samples, sample spikes, and negative pool samples.
Perform general laboratory processes, including dilutions, use of volumetric flasks, decanting, centrifugation, and sonication, and clean laboratory equipment, glassware, and benches.