What are the responsibilities and job description for the Specimen Processor position at UPMC?
At UPMC Chautauqua, our Specimen Processors are the heartbeat of the laboratory—ensuring every sample is handled with precision, urgency, and care. This casual role offers varied shifts between 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., providing schedule flexibility while supporting essential patient care.
We’re seeking detail-oriented professionals with Medical Terminology knowledge, EMR experience, and a healthcare background who thrive in a fast-paced environment. Join a supportive, collaborative team with cross-training opportunities and room to grow within UPMC. You’ll partner with multiple departments to ensure timely, accurate testing—playing a critical role in delivering high-quality patient results every day.
In this role, there is opportunity to -
- Receive, sort, and prioritize all specimens according to laboratory policy.
- Verify patient identification and match specimens to requisitions for accuracy.
- Enter specimen receipt times and requisition data into the Laboratory Information System.
- Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely processing.
- Centrifuge specimens, aliquot samples, and store at appropriate temperatures.
- Investigate and resolve specimen discrepancies or ordering errors.
- Complete quality documentation for unacceptable specimens or processing issues.
- Prepare, package, and ship specimens to reference laboratories as required.
- Communicate critical statistical results and respond to telephone inquiries.
- Partner with clinical departments to clarify testing needs and requirements.
- Train and support new laboratory specimen processors during orientation.
- Maintain a clean, disinfected, and safe work environment following biohazard protocols.
If you’re motivated by accuracy, teamwork, and meaningful impact, this is your opportunity to build a rewarding career with UPMC.
Salary : $1,000 - $1,000,000