Specimen Processor - Full time - Float

UPMC•Williamsport, PA

About The Position

UPMC Williamsport Laboratory is seeking a full-time Specimen Processor to join its team. This entry-level position is a great opportunity for individuals interested in starting a career in hospital laboratory sciences. The role involves receiving, sorting, identifying, processing, and distributing specimens to various technical sections, as well as entering requisition information and patient results into the computer system. Additional responsibilities include communicating statistical results, answering phone calls, coding charge slips, training new employees, and performing related clerical duties. This is a full‑time, 40‑hour work week floating position with variable start times ranging from 8:00 a.m. (first shift) to 2:30 p.m. (second shift). The role also includes a third‑shift weekend rotation every third weekend, working Friday and Saturday nights from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent required.
Good oral and written communication skills required.
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Nice To Haves

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 preferred.
Three to six months of experience in a service environment including call center, customer service center, or product distribution/fulfillment center preferred.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate a service-oriented approach by conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude in all work situations
Show initiative and offer assistance in completing departmental tasks
Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely specimen processing
Investigate and resolve specimen issues or request errors; request assistance when needed
Complete quality forms for unacceptable specimens, request errors, or other problems
Separate specimens by centrifugation, label aliquot tubes, and transfer samples according to policy
Store specimens at appropriate temperatures based on guidelines
Determine and enter specimen receive times into the computer system
Answer telephone inquiries regarding specimen collection, results, and reference ranges
Follow all health and safety regulations when handling biohazardous samples or sharps
Verify patient specimens (blood, urine, other fluids) against requisitions or labels for accuracy
Enter or request information in the Laboratory Information System as needed
Prepare, package, and send specimens to external laboratories or locations
Receive, sort, and prioritize all specimens according to laboratory policies
Share specimens with other departments as necessary
Notify supervisor of any issues, credits, or clarification needs
Disinfect work area during and after shifts to maintain cleanliness
Participate in the orientation and training of new specimen processors
Perform routine technical and clerical duties as directed