Medical Courier, Laboratory Medicine & Pathology

Job Description

Who we’re looking for:

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology in Seattle, WA has a fantastic 50% FTE Medical Courier opportunity with our Reference Laboratory Services (RLS) Team.  

RLS Medical Couriers play a critical role in maintaining a strong data-driven digital chain of custody for UWMC specimens. We pick up and deliver specimens and supplies for client locations within territory that runs from Vancouver, WA to Bellingham, WA. We operate 7 days per week from 6:15 AM to 2:30 AM, on 22 different routes from 3 locations - UWMC Montlake Campus, Our Northgate Office complex, and our Renton Central Lab location.

Work schedule:

• 50% FTE
• Day shift
• Schedule to be discussed with the hiring manager

What you’ll contribute:

• Drives a University of Washington vehicle to transport laboratory specimens, laboratory reports, supplies and other designated materials between UWMC and medical facilities and laboratories within Washington State.
• Works with biohazardous specimens, including tissues and fluids, which may be contain viruses or other infectious particles or microorganisms. May work near contagious patients. Must be vigilant about risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens through needle stick or spillage.
• Always adheres to “Universal Precaution” procedures when handling or transporting biohazardous materials.
  • Universal Precaution training in this instance refers to helping healthcare workers understand ways to protect themselves against bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials. It is important to know what exactly the Universal Precaution guidelines will safeguard you from, and what it will not. Despite the name, Universal Precaution guidelines Do Not protect against all dangers of the medical world.
• Maintains integrity of specimens being transported. This means doing the following:
  • Whatever temperature a specimen is picked up at, it is transported and delivered at that temperature.
  • All specimen packaging is to remain intact from the time of pickup until the time of delivery.
  • The exact number of specimens picked up at each temperature and at each location is the exact number of specimens delivered to the final delivery destination.
  • Nothing is ever delivered to the wrong location.
  • At the end of a shift nothing is ever left behind in a route vehicle or in a tote
• Transports lab supplies and related materials to be delivered to client locations.
• Performs assigned route in appropriate amount of time.
• Exercises independent judgment in determining ability to accommodate clients' requests for additional service within the assigned shift.
• Maintains accurate records of individual route stops and specimens transported.
• Always knows and follows UW Fleet Services rules and regulations.
• Keeps assigned University vehicle clean, and fuel tank sufficiently filled per RLS Courier Group protocol.
• Participates in and supports UW Fleet Services vehicle maintenance program.
• Participates in and supports quality assessment and improvement activities.
• Receptive to new ideas and procedures.
• Adapts to route/schedule changes as necessary.
• Open to receiving directions and asks for assistance when needed.
• Will use digital devices such as computers and smart phones regularly.
  • Responds promptly to calls or texts.
  • Can and does access Workday and other UW online resources for personal and employment data, training or other assignments, and education opportunities.
  • Keeps passwords up to date and checks UW email twice each work shift at a minimum.
• Teaches and demonstrates tasks and shares job knowledge with trainees as assigned.

What you’ll need:

Possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license.

Desired qualifications:

• Professional driving experience.
• Acceptable minimum three (3) year clean driving abstract.
• Experience handling bio-hazardous laboratory specimens and familiarity with universal precautions.
• Experience with customer service relations.
• Demonstrated success working independently with minimal supervision.

What we offer:

• Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
• Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
• Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
• And much more!

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:

A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.

Please visit our website to learn more about our department.

About UW Medicine:

UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.

All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest. 

Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.  

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$21.77 hourly

Pay Range Maximum:

$22.28 hourly

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

50.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

SEIU Local 925 Nonsupervisory

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.