Accessioner

Job Title: Accessioner
Job Description
The Accessioner plays a critical role in a large, high-throughput diagnostic laboratory by receiving, verifying, and processing a wide variety of biological specimens for testing. This position focuses on accurate specimen accessioning, heavy data entry, and meticulous organization of samples to ensure timely and reliable laboratory results. You will work with blood, urine, saliva, stool, and tissue samples, support automated instrumentation under supervision, and collaborate closely with laboratory staff in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities

• Receive, unpack, and verify incoming specimen packages for completeness and accuracy.
• Prepare and process biological samples including blood, urine, saliva, stool, and tissue for laboratory testing.
• Perform aliquotting of specimens by transferring portions into secondary containers for analysis.
• Accession specimens into the internal laboratory information system by scanning or manually entering patient and test information.
• Perform heavy data entry and scanning with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Verify that demographic information and test requisition details match submitted specimens, and identify and label samples using strong eye-hand coordination.
• Organize specimens into designated bins based on category, laboratory codes, or assay type.
• Route samples to appropriate staging areas or testing facilities, and pack and ship specimens when required.
• Conduct audits for samples that were not pulled and promptly resolve and document problem specimens.
• Properly prepare, store, and manage excess specimen samples.
• Handle and dispose of medical and chemical waste in accordance with environmental health and safety protocols.
• Operate automated instrumentation under supervision when necessary.
• Lift up to 30-40 pounds, wear appropriate protective equipment, and sit or stand for extended periods.
• Work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-throughput laboratory setting.
• Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills and effective problem-solving abilities.
• Maintain reliable attendance and consistently meet performance metrics and productivity targets.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience with specimen processing and accessioning in a laboratory or similar environment.
• Strong data entry skills with the ability to perform heavy, repetitive entry and scanning accurately.
• Proficient in receiving, sorting, and organizing biological samples such as serum, plasma, blood, urine, and other specimen types.
• High level of attention to detail to ensure accurate labeling, matching of requisitions, and error-free data entry.
• Strong organizational skills to manage high volumes of specimens and documentation.
• Ability to work independently as well as effectively in a team environment.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to coordinate with laboratory staff and document issues clearly.
• Demonstrated reliability and positive attendance record.
• Ability to lift 30-40 pounds and remain on feet or seated for extended periods while wearing protective equipment.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, high-throughput laboratory setting with time-sensitive workflows.
• Ability to be coachable, accept feedback, and apply guidance to improve performance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience as a specimen processor, accessioner, or in specimen accessioning is highly beneficial.
• Familiarity with laboratory operations, inventory processes, and diagnostic testing workflows.
• Experience with scanning systems and laboratory information systems for specimen tracking and data entry.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues with problem specimens or missing samples.
• Positive, hardworking attitude with a strong work ethic and motivation to meet performance metrics.
• Ability to take initiative and work well with others in a collaborative environment.
• Interest in long-term growth opportunities within a large, global diagnostic organization, including potential movement into other departments such as laboratory operations, sales, or client services.
• Comfort working with environmental health and safety protocols related to medical and chemical waste.

Work Environment
This role is based in a very large, central diagnostic laboratory serving patients in Oregon and Southwest Washington. The environment is fast-paced and high-throughput, with a high volume of specimens processed to meet 24-48 hour turnaround times, especially on the busiest shift when most samples are handled at night. You will work in a professional lab setting with extensive specimen types and assays, supported by established resources and protocols for specimen collection and processing. The position requires wearing appropriate protective equipment, handling medical and chemical waste safely, and the ability to lift 30-40 pounds and sit or stand for extended periods. The schedule is to be determined, and the role begins as a contract position initially slated for approximately three months, with typical extensions averaging 6-9 months and potential, but not guaranteed, opportunities to transition to a direct role based on business needs and performance. The broader organization offers a strong team culture, long employee tenure, and opportunities for growth into different departments. A comprehensive benefits package may include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, retirement savings plans, transportation benefits, employee assistance programs, and various wellness and advocacy services, contributing to a supportive and attractive work environment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Portland, OR.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $22.25/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Portland,OR.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 14, 2026.
About Actalent


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