Sr. Specimen Technician - Hospital

Quest Diagnostics

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Sr. Specimen Technician works in a hospital location preparing patient specimens. The role may involve working as the sole senior Hospital Specimen Associate at a location or leading a team of Hospital Specimen Associates. The technician performs the role’s duties proficiently, resolves advanced problems, and provides meticulous customer service through effective communication, collaboration, and quality service. This position is in Edinburg, Texas, with a Monday-to-Friday schedule from 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM and rotational weekends. The stated pay range begins at $17.20 per hour. The employee may be eligible for shift differentials of 10% for some or all second-shift hours and 15% for some or all third-shift hours. Annual performance bonus compensation may also be available to eligible employees.

Requirements

Three to five years of work experience, including previous specimen-processing work experience in a laboratory.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Data-entry ability to enter 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes per hour.
Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and work in a production environment.
Strong communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills for a client-facing role.
Ability to communicate effectively with staff at all levels.
Ability to maintain composure under pressure and use good judgment when resolving problems.
Flexibility and ability to adapt to change.
Ability to work in a biohazard environment while practicing good safety habits.
Ability to sit or stand for long periods.

Nice To Haves

Medical background, including medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory.
Previous experience in a production environment.
Knowledge of or experience with Hospital LIS systems.
Command of Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate proficiency in test-ordering policies, hospital processing procedures, specimen requirements, sample preparation, Quantum, and compliance and legal requirements.
Use the client-specific Hospital LIS system and print Quest performed-testing reports.
Interpret specimen flow and tracking data using available reports and resources.
Manage supply ordering and perform client-specific remote accessioning (pre-accessioning).
Troubleshoot and resolve issues involving specimen types, missing information, TIQ, TNP, additional sample requests, and other client issues within the area of responsibility.
Manage Quest pending tests and interface test pending issues.
Identify and document data-entry defects using department defect definitions.
Maintain and report department quality data, including compliance audits and Best Practice Team reports.
Identify and escalate trends in quality or service issues and provide appropriate feedback to supervisors or managers.
Manage inbound calls and maintain positive client interactions.
Communicate and collaborate with the Hospital Lab Manager, Quest Diagnostics sales team, and other organizational functions.
Communicate specimen problem-solving information, test cancellations, testing requirements, and billing requirements to hospital staff.
Provide test-down, test-delay, and Quanum downtime notifications.
Coordinate technical consultations based on the performing laboratory.
Relay client concerns to a Quest Diagnostics supervisor and sales team.
Participate in account sales and operations reviews.

Benefits

Day 1 medical, supplemental health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost health assessment program.
Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one “MyDay” off.
FinFit financial coaching and services.
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
Employee stock purchase plan.
Life and disability insurance, with a buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.