Specimen Processor
Company: UPMC - Pittsburgh Medical Center
Location: Altoona
Posted on: February 28, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Specimen Processor Fulltime Day/Eve position
with hours of 7:00a-3:30p / 9:00a-5:30p / 11:00a-7:30p with
rotation - weekend/holiday rotation AFSME union Posted: Feb 20,
2026 Responsibilities: Participates in the orientation and training
of new laboratory employees and students. Performs related clerical
duties as directed. Follows all regulations regarding health and
safety concerning the handling of Biohazard or Sharps patient
samples and the disinfection of the work area. Uses the utmost care
to prevent personal exposure and avoid environmental contamination.
Observes all laboratory and hospital safety, infection control and
compliance regulations and policies. Notifies supervisor of
problems and of any requests that need credited or clarified.
Requests assistance when needed. Completes quality forms for
unacceptable specimens, for requesting errors, or for other
problems. Effectively handles any complaints or reports of
problems. Investigates and resolves any requesting mistakes or
other specimen problems. Prepares, packages and sends specimens to
outside locations as needed Promptly delivers specimens to the
respective testing areas. Measures, aliquots, and distributes urine
samples when needed. Separates serum and plasma from red blood
cells by centrifugation. Labels aliquot tubes and transfers serum
or plasma according to policy. Stores samples at the appropriate
temperature. Shares specimens interdepartmentally as necessary.
Ensures adequacy of patient identification / labeling as well as
sample type and stability. Determines and enters the correct
specimen collection and receive time into the computer where
needed. Verifies patient specimens such as blood, urine and other
body fluids with any requisitions, bar codes or labels making
certain that information on the specimens match any paperwork
received, and that all submissions are appropriate for the work
requested. Receives, sorts and prioritizes all specimens according
to laboratory policies. Monitors pneumatic tube and / or courier
sample deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens. Uses
good customer service and conversation etiquette while answering
the telephone. Responds professionally to inquiries concerning
proper specimen collection, patient results, normal values, and
basic laboratory operations information as needed. Transfers calls
to appropriate parties when appropriate. Interacts courteously and
professionally with all customers and laboratory staff. Shows
initiative and offers assistance in the completion of the
department's work. High School diploma or GED equivalent.3 to 6
months of experience in a clinical laboratory, physician's office,
or other medical environment preferred. Training as a Medical
Assistant or Medical Secretary preferred. Knowledge of medical
terminology and laboratory information systems experience
preferred. Good oral and written communications skills required.
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. Licensure,
Certifications, and Clearances: Act 34 UPMC is an Equal Opportunity
Employer/Disability/Veteran
Keywords: UPMC - Pittsburgh Medical Center, Birmingham , Specimen Processor, Healthcare , Altoona, Alabama