Specimen Technician I

Position Summary

The Specimen Technician I (SPT I) is an entry-level role within the Specimen Processing department, responsible for the receipt, preparation, and processing of biological specimens for laboratory testing. This position plays a critical role in maintaining specimen integrity, ensuring accurate data entry, and adhering to established laboratory protocols and regulatory standards. The SPT I supports the efficiency and accuracy of laboratory operations through a strong commitment to quality and compliance.

Qualifications

• Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Basic computer and data entry skills, with the ability to meet standards for production and accuracy within 6 months of employment.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines and maintain composure under pressure.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols accurately.
  • Effective communication and organizational skills.
  • Flexibility and ability to adapt to changes in work assignments and schedules.

• Preferred:
  • Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory procedures.
  • Experience in a laboratory or healthcare setting.
  • Previous experience in a production environment.

Responsibilities

• Receive, label, and prepare biological specimens (e.g., blood, urine, tissue) for testing according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Accurately input basic patient and specimen information into the laboratory information system.
• Route specimens to appropriate departments under supervision and in accordance with laboratory guidelines.
• Follow established procedures for the proper storage and disposal of specimens and biohazardous materials.
• Assist with basic quality control activities, such as checking labeling accuracy and sample integrity.
• Keep workstations clean, organized, and stocked with necessary supplies.
• Operate basic laboratory equipment (e.g., centrifuges, barcode scanners) under supervision and report any malfunctions.
• Comply with CLIA, HIPAA, and OSHA regulations to support a safe laboratory environment.
• Demonstrate familiarity with specimen types and basic requirements for testing.
• Identify and escalate issues such as missing information, unlabeled specimens, or discrepancies to senior staff for resolution.
• Understand and follow departmental SOPs and seek guidance when deviations or uncertainties arise.
• Complete documentation clearly, accurately, and within assigned timeframes.
• Participate in required training and competency assessments.
• Perform result entry and test code verification with oversight as needed.
• Support team operations by assisting with various specimen processing tasks as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

HIPAA:  This position will have access to the Protected Health Information described below in order to carry out the duties related to the position at Hays Medical Center, based on the following criteria:

• Primary – required (routine) to do the job;
• Secondary – required for the job, but mostly by exception; and
• None – no approved access

Description of Information:

• Primary
  • Patient Demographic Information (information used to identify a person): Name, Date of Birth, Address, Race, Marital Status, Religion
  • Clinical Information (information that describes a patient’s health status): Diagnosis, Reports/Medical Notes, Test Results, Problem List, Procedures, History and Physical 
  • Coding Information (clinical information that is in (alpha) numeric format): ICD-9 Codes, Rev Codes, CPT Codes
  • Financial Information/Insurance (information related to insurance, billing, and payment): Billing Information, Payer Name, Payer ID, Account Balances, Plan Elements Covered, Payment Information, Payment Rates

Infection Control: This position will include initial and ongoing training in dealing with infection control. Training could include but is not limited to blood-borne pathogens, bodily fluids, and biohazardous materials, as it applies to your daily work environment.

Patient Interaction: None

Physical Requirements

• Working Conditions:
  • Body Position - Sitting: < 40%
  • Body Position - Standing: > 60%
  • Body Position - Other: > 15%
  • Level of Movement: Frequent
  • Level of Lifting: Light (< 20 lbs. frequently; 20-50 lbs. occasionally; 50-100 lbs. rarely)
• Placement/Movement of Materials:
  • Lifting Floor to Waist Frequency: > 25%
  • Lifting Waist to Shoulder Frequency: > 25%
  • Lifting Above Shoulders Frequency: < 10%        
  • Repetitive Twisting Frequency: < 25%
  • Climbing Stairs Frequency: < 10%        
  • Pushing Weight / Frequency: 20 lbs. / < 25%    
  • Pulling Weight / Frequency: 20 lbs. / < 25%        
  • Carrying Weight / Frequency: 0-50 lbs. / < 25%    
  • Awkward Positions Frequency: < 10%