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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Perform routine and complex laboratory testing according to departmental SOPs. * Monitor, operate ... Maintain and replenish laboratory testing supplies. * Assist with specimen processing as needed.

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Complex Specimen Processor information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a complex specimen processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Complex Specimen Processor, you need strong attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring experience in a clinical or laboratory setting. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen tracking software, and standard lab equipment is essential. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure specimen integrity, accurate processing, and timely workflow, which are critical for reliable laboratory results and patient care.

What is a complex specimen processor?

Complex Specimen Processors are laboratory professionals responsible for receiving, handling, and preparing biological samples—such as blood, tissue, or urine—for analysis and testing. They ensure that specimens are properly labeled, sorted, and processed according to strict protocols, often working with more challenging or specialized samples that require extra attention to detail. Their work is crucial for accurate diagnostic results and supports the efficiency and safety of the laboratory environment.

What is the difference between Complex Specimen Processor vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectComplex Specimen ProcessorMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology, certification required
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, processing specimensLaboratory, performing tests and analyzing samples
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing and processing complex specimens, ensuring sample integrityPerforming tests, analyzing results, maintaining lab equipment

While both roles work in laboratory environments, Complex Specimen Processors focus on preparing and processing complex specimens, often requiring specialized training. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform a broader range of testing and analysis, with formal education and certification. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in medical labs.

What are some common challenges faced by complex specimen processors, and how can they be addressed?

Complex Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, ensuring precise labeling, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures. To address these challenges, it is essential to stay organized, double-check specimen identification, and follow standardized protocols meticulously. Working closely with laboratory technicians and communicating effectively with team members can help prevent errors and ensure timely processing. Additionally, staying up-to-date with laboratory information systems and safety procedures can further streamline workflow and support accuracy.

What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:

Pathology Grossing Technician

DCH Health System

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


DCH Health System rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

The Pathology Grossing Technician works independently using medical knowledge to perform human specimen examination for diagnosis and patient treatment. The laboratory receives and processes specimens from the operating rooms and clinics throughout the hospital and health care organization. Specimens are also received from external clients and research groups.

This Pathology Grossing Technician functions in support of and as an adjunct to the physicians in Pathology. The Pathology Grossing Technician is responsible for dissecting and dictating gross descriptions of both routine, uncomplicated specimens (small biopsies and simple excisions) as well larger resection specimens including high-complexity cancer resections (hysterectomies, prostatectomies, mastectomies, colectomies, gastrectomies, and others). The Pathology Grossing Technician is responsible for grossly identifying tumors and selecting sections for microscopic examination, including surgical margins and any sections relevant for cancer staging. The incumbent must maintain competency and keep abreast of changing techniques and requirements in Anatomic Pathology dissection.

Responsibilities
  • Assure appropriate specimen identification and accessioning.
  • Obtain the clinical history including scans, x-rays, laboratory data, etc., as indicated after consulting with the Pathologist.
  • In association with the Pathologists, describe gross anatomic features: describe the overall specimen dimensions, structures, size, and appearance.
  • Dissect surgical specimens and prepare tissues for processing according to established procedures. For large/complex resection specimens (including cancer specimens), sections obtained should be sufficient for identification of tumor type and for subsequent grading and staging of the cancer.
  • Escalates non-routine complicated specimens to the Pathologist.
  • Exercises judgment by preserving samples for testing.
  • In collaboration with the Pathologist, obtain biological specimens for specialized analysis (flow cytometry, image analysis, immunohistochemistry, etc.) and upon direction of the Pathologist.
  • In collaboration with the Pathologist, prepare gross tissue sections for frozen section microscopy.
  • Photograph pertinent specimens.
  • Assure proper maintenance of equipment, provision of adequate supplies, and cleanliness of the surgical pathology suite.
  • Maintains quality control/assurance activities and records.
  • Receive specimens and carefully check paperwork for accuracy and completeness. Contact ordering source if any information is incomplete.
  • Process test requests with accompanying specimens and enter orders as required. Use established policies and procedures for specimen acceptability and troubleshoot or clarify questions regarding specimen integrity.
  • Troubleshoot laboratory defined equipment and document system error codes.
  • Practice universal safety precautions according to hospital policy and procedures at all times (e.g. use of gloves, lab coat, and other Personal Protective Equipment).
  • Assume other responsibilities as directed by the supervisor.
  • DCH Standards:

    • Maintains performance, patient and employee satisfaction and financial standards as outlined in the performance evaluation.
    • Performs compliance requirements as outlined in the Employee Handbook
    • Must adhere to the DCH Behavioral Standards including creating positive relationships with patients/families, coworkers, colleagues and with self.
    • Performs essential job functions in a manner that ensures the safety of patients, visitors and employees.
    • Identifies and reduces unsafe practices that may result in harm to patients, visitors and employees.
    • Recognizes and takes appropriate action to reduce risks and hazards to promote safety for patients, visitors and employees.
    • Requires use of electronic mail, time and attendance software, learning management software and intranet.
    • Must adhere to all DCH Health System policies and procedures.
    • All other duties as assigned.
    Qualifications

    Minimum education is a Bachelor or Associate degree in clinical laboratory science or biological science from an accredited institution, or education/training equivalent to the above that includes the following:

    • 60 semester hours or equivalent from an accredited institution. This education must include 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, or 24 semester hours of science courses that includes six semester hours of chemistry, six semester hours of biology, and 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology or medical laboratory technology in any combination.

    Abilities are demonstrated in areas of assigned responsibilities by successful completion of annual laboratory competency testing.  Must be able to read, write legibly, speak, and comprehend English.

     

    WORKING CONDITIONS

     

    Must possess manual dexterity and fine motor skills. Able to stand, walk, and sit for long periods of time, reach and bend. Is able to lift a maximum of 50 pounds with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects weighing up to 20 pounds. Vision and hearing must be normal or corrected to within normal. Normal color vision for those tasks requiring color differentiation. 

    Includes exposure to human body fluids, disease, infection, laboratory chemicals and hazardous material.  Requires wearing common protective or safety equipment.  Physical presence on site is essential.  Able to perform the duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

     

    Frequent interaction with others in the Laboratory and other departments in person, by telephone or by email, to resolve issues with patient care that are impacted by laboratory testing.  Due to the emotional and/or emergency nature of patient care some customers may be unpleasant, angry or discourteous in their requests for Laboratory services.

    Employment Type: OTHER

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