Specimen Technician

Job Details:
Position: Specimen Processing Technician I (SPT I)
Location: 14225 Newbrook Dr, Chantilly, VA
Job Type: Contract (Approximately 4-month contract)
Schedule: Sunday-Thursday, 4:00 AM-12:30 PM EST

Job Summary:

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 processing and handling specimens accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with established procedures.

Functions may include, but are not limited to:

• A-station
• Presort
• Pickup and delivery of processed specimens to the laboratory
• Imaging/microfilming
• Centrifugation
• Aliquoting

All functions must be performed with confidence, accuracy, and in a timely manner .

This is a complex position requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to learn and understand different specimen types related to the tests ordered by clients. The SPT I must also be able to learn and understand compliance regulations related to test ordering, which may change on a daily basis.

The SPT I plays a critical role in maintaining quality and customer satisfaction . Because processes and requirements may change from day to day, flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing demands are essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform specimen processing functions accurately and efficiently.
• Handle specimens according to established procedures and safety requirements.
• Perform A-station, presort, centrifugation, aliquoting, imaging/microfilming, and related processing activities.
• Pick up and deliver processed specimens to the laboratory as required.
• Accurately enter data and maintain required information.
• Learn and identify different specimen types and understand their relationship to ordered tests.
• Follow compliance regulations related to test ordering and specimen processing.
• Maintain productivity, quality, and departmental completion-time standards.
• Maintain a neat and clean work area.
• Follow all safety and compliance policies and procedures.
• Work effectively with all levels of staff.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and contribute to a positive work environment.
• Adapt to changing processes and customer requirements.
• Maintain flexibility based on staffing needs.

Production Environment & Physical Requirements:
Department operates in a production environment with an emphasis on productivity and quality standards.

• Ability to enter 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes per hour .
• Works in a biohazard environment and must practice good safety habits.
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods.
• Effective communication with all levels of staff is required.
• Must adhere to core values, safety, and compliance policies and procedures.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are required.
• Must demonstrate flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.

Schedule Requirements:

• Sunday-Thursday
• 4:00 AM-12:30 PM EST
• Majority of SPT I positions work the night shift .
• Based on staffing needs, weekends, holidays, on-call, and overtime availability is required .

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent - REQUIRED

Required Knowledge & Qualifications:

• Basic understanding of computers.
• Data entry background required.
• Ability to accurately enter 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes per hour .
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to learn and understand specimen types and test requirements.
• Ability to understand and follow changing compliance regulations.
• Ability to work accurately and efficiently in a production environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous laboratory experience preferred.
• Knowledge of laboratory testing and/or laboratory specimen processing preferred.
• Medical background preferred, including knowledge of medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory .
• Previous hospital laboratory experience is a plus but not required .
• Previous production-environment experience preferred.