Specimen Collection Specialist

About the role

This is a Per-Diem role based in Castle Hills, TX, working two 4-hour shifts on Monday and Thursday from 9am-1pm (schedule is flexible).

Responsibilities

• Confirm and verify patient identification, and make necessary updates in the lab system.
• Collect patient specimens using nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, nasal, or throat swabs.
• Explain collection procedures to patients and answer any questions about the process.
• Store and prepare samples for transport.
• Troubleshoot and handle any issues that arise during the collection process.
• Travel to site locations within Santa Ana and/or Orange County.
• Set up and take down the testing site at the beginning and end of each workday.
• Comply with all Laboratory Policies and Procedures.
• Follow all required Safety Protocols (PPE, Universal Precautions, OSHA Standards).
• Ensure patient privacy and confidentiality is maintained.
• Ensure the site has adequate supplies for continuous operation.
• Greet all incoming individuals at the on-site location (employees, patients, and visitors).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• EMT Certification
• High School Diploma
• Reliable Transportation
• Clean driving record

Skills

• Professionalism and discretion: handles sensitive processes with dignity and respect for patients.
• Calm, non-judgmental demeanor.
• Strong attention to detail: accurate labeling, documentation, and collection procedures.
• High integrity and ethical standards: vigilant against sample tampering/substitution.
• Reliability and punctuality: critical for coordinating around pickups and scheduling windows.
• Comfort with handling bodily fluids.
• Sharp observational skills.
• Basic EMR/computer literacy: accurately enters collection data into systems like Kipu.
• Confidentiality-minded: understands and respects HIPAA and patient privacy requirements.

Schedule

Two 4-hour shifts per week: Monday and Thursday, 9am–1pm (flexible).