Specimen Processing Services Specialist

The Specimen Processing Services Specialist I – Pathology position at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center involves handling and processing various medical specimens with responsibilities that range from preparing bone marrow aspirates to managing laboratory equipment and databases. This role is essential for ensuring timely and accurate specimen processing, which supports the center's mission of pioneering cancer treatment and research.

Key Responsibilities:

• Specimen Handling: Receive, accession, and process specimens according to protocols.
• Bone Marrow & Blood Smears: Prepare, stain, and check the quality of bone marrow aspirate smears, touch preps, and peripheral blood smears.
• Slide Scanning: Clean, load, and scan slides; accurately label and organize image files.
• Laboratory Procedures: Prepare specimens, mix chemicals, and maintain laboratory equipment such as refrigerators and centrifuges.
• Recordkeeping: Accurately record variances from standard procedures in the system (Safety Net) and triage phone calls.
• Daily Lab Operations: Load tissue processors, handle laboratory shutdown activities, and consult with supervisors or managers on problematic samples.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with computers and data entry in a Windows environment.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to follow protocols with accuracy and precision.
• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills for interacting with staff and patients.
• Medical Knowledge: Basic understanding of medical terminology.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education: Some college coursework in laboratory science.
• Experience: Prior experience in specimen handling and processing, including accessioning.
• Phone Skills: Proficiency in handling phone inquiries from patients and staff.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with laboratory information systems.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Commitment:

All finalists for this role are required to provide a statement outlining their commitment to and contributions toward diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism.

Compensation & Schedule:

• Hourly Pay: Ranges from $23.32 to $33.20, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Work Hours: 12:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

Fred Hutch is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, and candidates must share this commitment in line with the organization's values and mission to become an anti-racist institution. This role provides an opportunity to contribute to impactful work in cancer and infectious disease research and patient care.