Specimen Processor

Launch Your Lab Career at UPMC Hamot as a Specimen Processor!
Be part of a high-impact, fast-paced team where every detail counts. As a casual Specimen Processor at UPMC Hamot, you'll play a vital role in supporting exceptional patient care by accurately receiving, labeling, and preparing biological specimens for testing. Whether you're monitoring incoming deliveries, using our lab information system, or ensuring safe and timely handling, your work keeps our lab operations moving with precision and purpose. Our casual position serves a minimum of 12 hours biweekly and two weekend shifts of at least six hours each month.

We're looking for proactive, organized individuals who bring strong communication skills, focus on timeliness, and a service-first mindset. Familiarity with healthcare or medical terminology is a plus—but we’ll train motivated candidates who are eager to learn. If you enjoy multitasking, working behind the scenes, and being part of a team that makes a real difference, this is the opportunity for you.

At UPMC Hamot, we offer comprehensive clear paths for professional growth through our career ladder. Take the next step in your healthcare journey—right here, where every sample matters.

Our Specimen Processor shift schedule is:

• Daylight/First Shift: 4:00am - 12:30pm

• Evening/Second Shift: 12:15pm - 8:45pm

• Night/Third Shift: 8:30pm - 6:30am

In this role, there is opportunity to:

• Demonstrate a courteous, respectful, and service-oriented approach in all interactions.
• Monitor pneumatic tube and courier systems for timely specimen deliveries.
• Determine and accurately enter specimen receive times into the Laboratory Information System.
• Answer inquiries regarding specimen collection, results, and normal ranges.
• Follow biohazard safety protocols and health regulations at all times.
• Disinfect workstations before, during, and after shift as needed.
• Participate in the training and orientation of new team members.
• Investigate and help resolve specimen issues or labeling discrepancies.
• Complete quality documentation for unacceptable or problematic specimens.
• Centrifuge specimens and prepare aliquots per lab policy.
• Label and store samples correctly according to temperature and handling requirements.
• Receive, sort, and prioritize specimens based on laboratory protocols.
• Share specimens internally or externally as required.
• Notify supervisors of critical issues or needed clarifications.
• Verify patient identification and specimen labeling to ensure accuracy.
• Prepare, package, and ship specimens to reference labs as needed.
• Request missing lab orders or data in the system when applicable.

Required

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with all age groups and populations of external and internal customers (as well as co-workers) both by telephone and in person

Preferred

• Experience in a clinical laboratory, physician's office, or other medical environment
• Knowledge of or experience in Medical Terminology and Laboratory Information systems
• Experience in a service environment including call center, customer service center, or product distribution/fulfillment center
• Attention to detail
• Analytical skills
• Strong organizational skills while supporting multiple projects

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran