As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

211 Bailey Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14586

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Time as Reported / Per Diem

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

As Scheduled

Department:

500232 Microbiology SMH

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URCB 205 H

Compensation Range:

$20.75 - $28.01

Responsibilities:

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the section Supervisor and with specific direction from the Point Tech, this position has primary responsibility for the pre-analytical processing of patient specimens that are delivered to the Microbiology laboratory 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. Exercises moderate skill, judgment and a knowledge of the terminology and common procedures and practices of Medical Technology. Enters and edits patient demographics in the laboratory and hospital computer systems. Receives, prioritizes, accessions and distributes clinical specimens to appropriate laboratory sections in order to meet turnaround times designated by the department. Processes specimens appropriately in order to maintain specimen integrity. Serves as a resource to physicians, nurses and other laboratory personnel regarding specimen handling and processing.

SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION RECEIVED:
Under supervision of the Specimen Management/Microbiology Receiving Supervisor. Takes direction from Clinical Support Tech IV or V in the absence of the section supervisor.

SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION EXCERCISED:
None

MACHINES AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Standard office equipment such as multi-feature ACD telephone, PC, copier, printer, scanner, fax machine, and the like. Software systems such as Laboratory Information System (LIS), Hospital Information System (HIS), and related software applications. Laboratory equipment may include operations of pneumatic tube system, centrifuge, automated pipette system, blood culture system and pre analytical laboratory automation system as applicable

Essential Functions:

Sample Management (45%)

• Receives specimens from inpatient and outpatient locations via couriers or pneumatic tube station.
• Uses knowledge of test menu to prioritize handling of stat/urgent specimens and those needing special handling. 
• Takes appropriate action to ensure specimen integrity whenever testing may be delayed. 
• Tracks and receives batches, verifying receipt of specimens. 
• Works with a variety of health care providers to troubleshoot problem specimens and to clarify correct test selection.
• Answers questions from specimen collection locations regarding transport and minimum volumes.
• Informs ordering providers when the ordered test(s) cannot be performed and works to remedy this situation whenever possible.  
• Prepares specimens for transport to specialized areas of testing (i.e. specialty labs, reference lab).
• Manages sample archive storage system and specimen disposal as specified by laboratory storage guidelines.

Patient Registration and Specimen Log-in (25%)

• Registers patient information into HIS (Hospital Information System).
• Identifies special registration (i.e. client Bill, research). 
• Identifies and registers patient billing information.
• Logs-in laboratory procedure codes as ordered from manual requisitions or assures accuracy of electronic orders.         Enters all appropriate comments from requisitions/physician orders. 
• Follows procedure for documenting discrepancies on patient information, test(s) requested, or specimen information into the LIS.

Clerical Support (15%)

• Answers telephone calls, providing routine information related to test results, testing/specimen requirements or other technical information (reference ranges, turnaround times and referral laboratory information), as well as  general product or service information. 
• Takes appropriate action as needed to meet the customer’s request, including test request add-on’s and proper transfer of calls to other destinations as needed.   
• Scans requisitions into the scanning system confirming readability and keywords. 
• Participates in Quality Assurance data collection as required.

Lab (Technical) Support (10%)

• Assists technologists in the pre-analytical processing of select tests including the centrifugation, separating and storing of samples. 
• As applicable, loads continuous blood culture system for sample processing
• Takes temperatures and monitors environment (C02/humidity) of rooms and equipment. 
• Works with technical team and Supervisors to trouble shoot out of range conditions and documents the results as part of the laboratory’s quality control guidelines.

Performs other responsibilities and projects as assigned.  (5%)

Minimum Education & Experience:

• Associates degree or some college level course work in science or related discipline
• Or an equivalent combination of education, experience or certification

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to maintain a friendly and courteous professional manner at all times required.
• Ability to interact effectively and professionally with co-workers and customers required.
• Excellent computer and organizational skills required. 
• Ability to rotate shifts, weekends, and holidays as assigned required.
• Adheres to all departmental and organizational policies and procedures required.
• Demonstrates all aspects of ICARE values required.
• Customer service experience preferred.
• Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy/physiology preferred.

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.