Job Title: Specimen ProcessorJob DescriptionThe Specimen Processor performs a blend of clerical and technical laboratory duties to ensure specimens are received, processed, and prepared accurately and efficiently for lifesaving diagnostic testing. Working under the direction of department leadership, this role follows daily schedules, takes initiative within the scope of the position, and continuously looks for ways to improve processes based on laboratory and client needs. The Specimen Processor understands the critical impact of their work on patients and healthcare providers and aligns with the organizations mission, vision, values, and departmental goals.
Responsibilities
- Understand and adhere to all applicable regulatory and compliance requirements, performing daily tasks in accordance with established standards.
- Support leadership during audits by providing documentation, records, and information as requested.
- Ship, receive, and track packages and specimens while maintaining sample integrity throughout the process.
- Receive, classify, and process specimens accurately and in an expedient manner according to established protocols.
- Inspect specimens and accompanying paperwork for accuracy, completeness, and acceptability, and take appropriate action when issues arise.
- Maintain sample identity at all times and ensure specimens are handled and stored at appropriate temperatures to prevent sample loss or degradation.
- Use laboratory information systems and other appropriate systems to accurately perform data entry functions.
- Proofread all work for content, spelling, accuracy, and proper document formatting before finalizing.
- Prepare specimens for laboratory testing as needed, ensuring they are properly labeled and organized for downstream analysis.
- Perform reagent preparation as needed, following laboratory protocols and safety guidelines.
- Operate laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, refrigerators, freezers, pH meters, and microscopes, and perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration as required.
- Identify and clearly document sample issues or discrepancies, and work collaboratively with clients to resolve them appropriately.
- Answer telephone calls and respond to email requests with professionalism, courtesy, and a high level of responsiveness.
- Research and resolve customer issues promptly, providing timely follow-up and clear communication.
- Use strong written and verbal communication skills to deliver exemplary customer service to internal and external customers and accurately document all interactions.
- Maintain organization of departmental records and documentation as needed to support efficient laboratory operations.
- Support the maintenance of reagent and supply inventory by monitoring stock levels and assisting with ordering and restocking as needed.
- Participate in weekend and holiday rotations as scheduled to support continuous laboratory operations.
- Train others on job tasks as assigned, sharing knowledge and promoting consistent practices.
- Maintain all applicable competencies and sufficient continuing education credits, performing duties in accordance with laboratory policies and procedures.
- Comply with all standard operating policies and procedures and perform work in alignment with quality and safety standards.
- Perform other duties as required or assigned that are reasonably within the scope of this job classification.
Essential Skills
- Ability to understand and comply with regulatory and laboratory compliance requirements.
- Experience with specimen processing, including receiving, classifying, labeling, and preparing samples for testing.
- Skill in maintaining sample identity and integrity, including proper storage and temperature control.
- Proficiency in data entry and use of laboratory or related information systems with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to proofread work for accuracy, spelling, and correct formatting.
- Capability to operate, troubleshoot, and perform routine maintenance and calibration on laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, freezers, refrigerators, pH meters, and microscopes.
- Strong organizational skills for managing records, samples, and workflow in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills for interacting with internal and external customers.
- Customer service skills, including professionalism, courtesy, and responsiveness when handling calls, emails, and inquiries.
- Ability to research and resolve issues and follow up promptly with customers.
- Willingness and ability to work weekend and holiday rotations as scheduled.
- Commitment to maintaining competencies and participating in continuing education as required.
- High School diploma with at least 6+ months of work experience in production or healthcare settings, or an Associates degree in a life science or related field plus experience in retail, serving, or other fast-paced environments, or a Bachelors degree in a science-related field.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Background or coursework in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, or related scientific disciplines.
- Experience in medical laboratory settings, including sample management, sample testing, and specimen processing.
- Exposure to blood bank operations, blood typing, blood collection, and related workflows.
- Familiarity with accessioning and labeling procedures in a laboratory environment.
- Phlebotomy, processing, or other healthcare experience.
- Awareness of or preparation for professional certifications such as ASCP certification.
- Interest in joining a clinical or medical laboratory and being trained from the ground up.
- Experience working in fast-paced, production, or service-oriented roles that require multitasking and attention to detail.
Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a clinical laboratory environment within a testing laboratory that supports multiple regional blood centers and testing operations. The position primarily works on 2nd shift, typically from 8:00 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Initial training occurs over approximately 34 months on 1st shift, typically from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to ensure thorough onboarding and skill development. The laboratory is organized into specialized areas, including reference labs, DNA testing (HLA), and testing labs, and this position is situated in the testing lab. The work involves frequent use of laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, freezers, refrigerators, pH meters, and microscopes, as well as handling and processing biological specimens. The dress code includes scrubs or business casual attire, with long pants required in the lab, along with comfortable, clean, closed-toe shoes. The culture emphasizes continuous education, professional development, and engagement, with opportunities to receive regular performance feedback and participate in supportive initiatives and activities that recognize and motivate staff. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Indianapolis, IN. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $19.00 - $20.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Indianapolis, IN. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 20, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Indianapolis,IN.About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
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Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
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