Senior Specimen Management Specialist

Summary:

The Senior Specimen Management Specialist is responsible for overseeing the collection, processing, storage, and distribution of biological specimens in accordance with regulatory requirements and company policies. This senior-level role ensures that all specimen handling processes are executed accurately and efficiently while adhering to quality control standards and industry best practices. The Senior Specimen Management Specialist will also lead and mentor junior staff, provide training, and troubleshoot complex specimen-related issues.

Qualifications and Experience:

Education:

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. required.
• Associate’s degree or relevant certification in Life Sciences or related field preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 yrs of experience in specimen management or a related field with a High School Diploma
• Minimum of 4 yrs of experience in specimen management or a related field with an Associate's degree
• Strong understanding of specimen handling, transport, and storage procedures.
• Experience with specimen tracking systems and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements (e.g., HIPAA, CLIA, OSHA, GxP) related to specimen management and laboratory operations.
• Preferred: At least 2 years of experience in a lead or supervisory role within a specimen management or laboratory environment.

Skills:

• High time management
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), with the ability to interact effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and LIMS software.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex specimen management issues.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Specimen Management:

• Oversee the receipt, processing, and storage of biological specimens in accordance with established protocols and industry standards.
• Ensure specimens are logged into the system accurately, with correct patient identifiers and processing details.
• Coordinate specimen transportation and distribution to ensure timely delivery and proper handling.
• Maintain and update specimen tracking databases, ensuring accurate records are kept for all samples.
• Able to complete tasks within expected timeframes.

Quality Control and Compliance:

• Perform regular quality control checks to ensure that specimens are processed, stored, and shipped in compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor specimen handling procedures to ensure compliance with standards for specimen integrity, safety, and chain of custody.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety protocols, including the safe handling of biohazardous materials.

Training and Mentorship:

• Lead and mentor junior specimen management staff, providing training on specimen handling, system usage, and compliance requirements.
• Provide guidance and support to team members to ensure proper handling and troubleshooting of specimen-related issues.
• Assist in the development and refinement of specimen management procedures and documentation.
• Ability to lead team in the absence of supervisor or lead.

Troubleshooting and Problem Solving:

• Address and resolve complex specimen-related issues, including discrepancies, errors, and logistical challenges.
• Work closely with laboratory staff, customer support teams, and logistics to resolve specimen transport and processing issues.
• Serve as a point of contact for internal and external stakeholders for specimen management concerns.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate and complete documentation of specimen management processes, actions taken, and compliance efforts.
• Prepare regular reports on specimen management activities, including inventory levels, processing timelines, and quality assurance metrics.
• Identify areas for process improvement and recommend solutions to enhance operational efficiency and compliance.

Other Duties as Assigned:

• Participate in audits and inspections to ensure adherence to internal and external standards.
• Assist in the development of new processes and tools to improve specimen handling and processing workflows.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Frequently required to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods of time.
• Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
• Occasionally required to lift or move objects weighing 20-30 pounds.
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment with exposure to chemicals, biological materials, and other potentially hazardous substances.

EEO Statement:

Baylor Genetics is proud to be an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, veteran status, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Note to Recruiters:

We value building direct relationships with our candidates and prefer to manage our hiring process internally. While we occasionally partner with select recruitment agencies for specialized roles, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies without a written agreement executed by the authorized signatory for Baylor Genetics ("Agreement"). Any resumes submitted to Baylor Genetics in the absence of an Agreement executed by Baylor Genetics' authorized signatory, will be considered the property of Baylor Genetics, and Baylor Genetics will not be obligated to pay any associated recruitment fees.