Job Description

The Specimen Collector is a full-time, on-site role based in Atlanta, GA. This role is responsible for accurately collecting biological specimens (such as blood, urine, and swabs) from patients or study participants following established protocols and safety standards. Day-to-day tasks include verifying patient identity, labeling and documenting specimens, maintaining chain-of-custody records, and preparing specimens for transport to the laboratory. The Specimen Collector will ensure a clean, safe collection environment, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and follow infection control procedures. The role also involves communicating clearly with patients, answering basic questions about collection procedures, collaborating with clinical and laboratory staff, and supporting quality control and compliance with regulatory requirements.

1. Specimen Collection and Patient Identification  

• Collect biological specimens including blood, urine, saliva, and swabs using approved collection techniques and laboratory SOPs.  
• Verify patient identity using at least two unique identifiers (e.g., full name and date of birth) prior to specimen collection and labeling.  
• Label all specimens accurately and in the presence of the patient to ensure proper identification and traceability.  
• Ensure all specimens are collected in a manner that preserves integrity and minimizes pre-analytical errors.  

2. Specimen Handling, Storage, and Transport  

• Handle, store, and transport specimens in accordance with laboratory protocols and regulatory standards.  
• Maintain appropriate environmental conditions (temperature, timing, packaging) to ensure specimen stability.  
• Ensure specimens are referred only to CLIA-certified laboratories when applicable.  

3. Chain of Custody and Documentation  

• Maintain accurate and complete documentation for all specimens, including:  
• requisition forms and electronic records  
• Patient identification details  
• Adhere to chain-of-custody procedures when required, ensuring secure handling and traceability of specimens.  
• Document date, time, and conditions of specimen collection method and transfer.  

4. Patient Interaction and Customer Experience  

• Provide professional, respectful, and compassionate experience for all patients.  
• Clearly explain collection procedures and address patient questions or concerns.  
• Escalate patient concerns or complications to appropriate personnel when necessary.  

5. Compliance, Safety, and Infection Control  

• Perform all duties in compliance with:  

1. CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments)  
2. CAP (College of American Pathologists)  
3. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)  
4. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)  

• Follow all infection control and biohazard safety procedures.  
• Properly utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to exposure control protocols.  

6. Quality Assurance and Specimen Integrity  

• Recognize and report unacceptable specimens according to laboratory-defined rejection criteria.  
• Document and escalate specimen collection errors, incidents, or discrepancies.  
• Participate in quality assurance activities, internal audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.  

7. Training and Competency  

• Complete all required initial training prior to performing specimen collection duties independently.  
• Participate in ongoing competency assessments and continuing education as required by laboratory policy and regulatory standards.  
• Maintain current knowledge of specimen collection procedures, safety standards, and compliance requirements.  

8. Operational Support  

• Maintain inventory of collection supplies and ensure adequate stock levels.  
• Coordinate with laboratory and logistics teams to ensure timely specimen transport.  
• Support mobile, onsite, or offsite collection events as needed.  
• Maintain physician and demographic records within the LIS system.  

Qualifications  

• High school diploma or equivalent required.  
• Certification in phlebotomy (CPT, PBT-ASCP, or equivalent) is strongly preferred.  
• Prior experience in specimen collection, phlebotomy, or related healthcare role preferred.  
• Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) or electronic health records  
• Knowledge of medical terminology, laboratory procedures, and safety standards.  
• Strong communication, customer service, and organizational skills.  
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.  
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology and specimen collection procedures  
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain accurate documentation  

Working Conditions: Specimen Collectors typically work in clinical, laboratory, hospital, or mobile settings. The position may involve exposure to blood, biohazardous materials, and infectious diseases, requiring strict adherence to safety and infection control protocols. Physical requirements may include standing for long periods, performing repetitive hand motions, and lifting moderate-weight materials. Flexible scheduling, including evenings, weekends, or on-call work, may be required.  

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