Specimen Processor
Company: UPMC - Pittsburgh Medical Center
Location: Altoona
Posted on: February 13, 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 10,
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, Altoona , Specimen Processor, Healthcare , Altoona, Pennsylvania
