Medical Technician I - Specimen Processing - Evenings

About the role

The Specimen Processing department at MD Anderson Cancer Center plays a critical role in ensuring patient specimens are accurately received, prepared, documented, and routed for laboratory testing. This work is foundational to the diagnostic process, requiring careful attention to specimen identification, handling requirements, documentation, and workflow coordination. This Medical Technician 1 position offers the opportunity to work in a hands-on, fast-paced laboratory environment where accuracy and organization directly support timely patient care. The role is well suited for someone who is detail-oriented, dependable, comfortable following established procedures, and interested in developing technical laboratory skills.

Responsibilities

• Evaluates and accessions cases or specimens.
• Documents cases or specimens requiring special handling.
• Documents any unacceptable cases or specimens and performs cancellations as necessary.
• Performs complex set-ups of slides/specimens for clinical testing.
• Prepares any reagents required for slide/specimen processing.
• Prepares any necessary sterile supplies or reagents.
• Cuts and grinds tissue specimens as necessary for processing procedures.
• Evaluate samples requiring performance by a reference laboratory.
• If necessary, obtain appropriate approvals before sending samples to reference laboratory.
• Prepare and/or aliquot specimens into appropriate transport containers and store in the appropriate transport conditions until pick up by courier.
• Generate manifest for reference laboratory specimens and ensure all specimens and orders are accounted for.
• Operates instrumentation/equipment according to specific protocols.
• Is able to perform and document standard service, quality control, and/or calibration procedures.
• Is able to troubleshoot and resolve common instrumentation/equipment problems.
• Performs inventory of supplies/reagents according to departmental procedures.
• Maintains a clean and organized workstation.
• Restocks consumable items as necessary to ensure enough to support the next work shift.
• Complies with the section telephone courtesy policies and procedures.
• Demonstrates cooperation when working with both internal and external customers.
• Demonstrates calmness under varying environmental circumstances.
• Remains willing and capable of assisting in crisis situations.
• Train other employees, students, and/or fellows as needed.
• Follow established checklists during the training period.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent required. Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science preferred.

Work Experience: 3 years in a clinical medical laboratory or similar setting required, or with preferred degree, no experience required.

Skills

• Detail-oriented and organized.
• Dependable and safety-conscious.
• Comfortable working in a structured laboratory environment.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and willing to assist during challenging or crisis situations.
• Enjoys sharing knowledge and contributing to the development of others.

Benefits

• Paid medical benefits.
• Generous paid time off.
• Retirement plans.
• Tuition assistance.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Individual and team recognition.

Pay

Minimum: USD $38,000 / Midpoint: USD $47,500 / Maximum: USD $57,000. FLSA non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay.

Schedule

Monday - Friday 2:30pm – 11:00pm with rotating weekends and holidays.