Specimen Processing Technician

Quest Diagnostics•Chantilly, VA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Specimen Processing Technician I (SPT I) is responsible for general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department. This position requires a data entry background and involves various functions such as A-station, presort, pickup and delivery of processed specimens to the laboratory, imaging/microfilming, centrifugation, and aliquoting. All tasks must be performed with confidence, accuracy, and in a timely manner. The role is complex, requiring good organizational skills and the ability to learn and understand different specimen types and related tests, as well as compliance regulations for test ordering, which can change frequently. This position is critical for quality and customer satisfaction. Flexibility is essential due to daily changes and diverse customer demands. While the majority of work is on the night shift, availability for weekends, holidays, on-call, and overtime is required based on staffing needs. The department operates in a production environment with an emphasis on productivity, quality standards, and departmental completion times. The role requires a data background with the ability to enter 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes per hour. The work is performed in a biohazard environment, necessitating good safety habits. The employee must be able to sit or stand for long periods, communicate effectively with all levels of staff, adhere to core values, safety, and compliance policies, and maintain a neat and clean work area. Strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment and the ability to adapt to change are also important.

Requirements

Data entry background.
Ability to enter 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes/hour.
Basic understanding of computers.
Ability to sit or stand for long periods.
HS diploma or equivalent.
Flexibility and ability to adapt to change.
Good organization skills.
Ability to learn and understand specimen types and compliance regulations.
Availability for weekends, holidays, on call, and overtime.

Nice To Haves

Previous laboratory experience.
Knowledge of laboratory testing and/or laboratory specimen processing.
Medical background including medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory.
Previous hospital laboratory experience.
Previous experience in a production environment.

Responsibilities

Perform general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department.
Operate A-station, presort, and handle pickup and delivery of processed specimens.
Perform imaging/microfilming, centrifugation, and aliquoting.
Enter data with accuracy and speed (6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes/hour).
Learn and understand specimen types and related tests.
Understand and adhere to compliance regulations related to test ordering.
Maintain a neat and clean work area.
Practice good safety habits in a biohazard environment.
Communicate effectively with all levels of staff.
Adhere to core values, safety, and compliance policies and procedures.