Specimen Control & Receiving Tech Lead

POSITION SUMMARY:
The UW Health Specimen Control & Receiving Technician Lead is an advanced position responsible for leading other Specimen Control & Receiving Techs, receiving specimens and research kits into the laboratory, checking specimens and requisitions for correct labeling and appropriateness, entering tests into the Laboratory Information System, processing specimens, and directing them to the appropriate workstation, technologist, or storage area. In addition, the technician is also responsible for daily checklist duties which may include basic instrument and equipment maintenance (temperatures, monitoring reagents) and clerical duties (filing, mailing, faxing).
The Specimen Control & Receiving Technician Lead is differentiated from the Specimen Control & Receiving Technician level in its technical expertise, decision-making autonomy, and troubleshooting independence. In addition, the Specimen Control & Receiving Technician Lead is involved in more advanced training and leading of other staff.
Problems encountered are of a moderate degree of complexity but may require innovation because reference sources and subject matter experts are not always readily available.
Depending on the laboratory, the incumbent may interact daily with pathologists, residents, physicians, technologists, clinical staff, nursing unit personnel, couriers, outside clients and patients. This position operates under minimal supervision and requires a high degree of organizational skill and ability to multi-task.
EDUCATION/TRAINING:
MINIMUM

• High school diploma or equivalent.

PREFERRED

• Associates Degree in a healthcare or a related science field that may include course work in Medical Laboratory Technician, Cytotechnologist, Histotechnician or Medical Laboratory Scientist degree/certification.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:
MINIMUM

• PBT(ASCP) Certification required.

PREFERRED

• CPR Certification preferred

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
MINIMUM

• One (1) year healthcare or laboratory related work experience.

PREFERRED

• Two (2) years laboratory experience.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Demonstrated high level communication skills and the ability to maintain good interpersonal relationships with co-workers and clients.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and prioritize work.
• Demonstrated problem identification and resolution skills.
• Demonstrated strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Knowledge of laboratory medicine and universal precautions.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Specimen Receipt and Processing
   • Receive specimens and carefully check paperwork for accuracy and completeness, including appropriate documentation of medical necessity. Contact ordering source if any information is incomplete.
   • Monitor specimen identification using the laboratory's specimen identification policies. Resolve problems and complete documentation as required.
   • 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.
   • Prepare and receive blood components and tissues following patient and product identification procedures.
   • Troubleshoot laboratory's defined equipment and document system error codes.
   • Respond to telephone requests regarding add on tests, patient results, availability of products, and department procedures. Refer calls to technologists when appropriate.
   • 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).
   • Create and queue reference laboratory test batches.

1. Instrument Maintenance and Clerical Duties
   • Retrieve lab computer reports as necessary.
   • Operate pneumatic tube system as needed.
   • Complete daily checklists, instrument logs, and restock and order supplies as necessary.
   • Perform routine instrument maintenance as required.

1. Training
   • Train Specimen Central Processing Technicians, students, and other healthcare professionals within the scope of their responsibilities.
   • Communicate training needs and materials to manager.

1. Additional Duties
   • Resolve issues using advanced knowledge of the laboratory computer programs.
   • Re-prioritizes daily goals and changes work assignments as necessary.
   • Use advanced knowledge to evaluate tests requested and processing knowledge.
   • Assist in troubleshooting problems and processes.
   • Suggest changes to policies and procedures used to perform work in the area.
   • Communicates with ordering source about complex problems with specimens or orders.
   • Make appropriate and autonomous decisions within the scope of processing duties.
   • Responds to customer complaints.
   • Act as an information resource for any questions related to specimen processing work area.

1. Performs additional duties as assigned.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
UW Health is committed to being a diverse, inclusive and anti-racist workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Our integrity shines through in patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day. Applications from Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals, LGBTQ+ and non-binary identities, women, persons with disabilities, military service members and veterans are strongly encouraged. EOE, including disability/veterans.