Biospecimen Coordinator

Job Title: Biospecimen Coordinator

Job Description

The Biospecimen Coordinator plays a key role in supporting laboratory operations by receiving, verifying, documenting, and managing biological specimens for biobanking, bioprocessing, and analytical testing. This position focuses on accurate data entry, strict adherence to protocols, and careful handling of human biological materials to ensure sample integrity and timely processing for clinical and research projects.

Responsibilities

• Receive, sort, and log all specimens entering the laboratory, ensuring accurate data entry into laboratory information management systems.
• Open incoming packages and verify that information on requisition forms matches information on collection containers for accuracy and completeness.
• Capture and enter detailed specimen information into computer database systems, including LIMS and bioinventory platforms.
• Accurately track specimens and related data across multiple laboratory information management systems.
• Maintain and update documentation within electronic master files, including uploading and completing documents and using document exchange portals.
• Conduct completeness checks on documentation to ensure all required information is captured and compliant with project protocols.
• Stay current with multiple project protocols and requirements, adjusting workflows as needed to meet specific study needs.
• Examine specimens for adequacy and suitability for processing according to established criteria.
• Label specimen containers and measure sample volumes precisely to support downstream testing.
• Meet key production metrics and quality measures to ensure samples are processed and handed off in a timely and accurate manner.
• Take clear and accurate photographs of data and labeling on specimen containers for quality control and documentation purposes.
• Pack and ship specimens to designated facilities following proper packaging, labeling, and shipping procedures.
• Properly store specimen samples under appropriate conditions when required, maintaining sample integrity.
• Assist internal teams and external clients with inquiries related to specimen requirements, test turnaround times, and project status.
• Identify and document situations that may adversely impact sample integrity and promptly notify management and project managers.
• Handle and dispose of medical and chemical waste in accordance with safety guidelines and regulatory requirements.
• Sort, organize, and prepare all paperwork for scanning and electronic record keeping.
• Answer the loading dock door for incoming shipments and couriers, ensuring timely receipt and routing of specimens.
• Perform administrative duties such as filing paperwork, answering phones, and supporting general laboratory office tasks.
• Sanitize workstations and maintain a clean, orderly, and safe laboratory environment.
• Work collaboratively with all members of the team, demonstrating respect and professional communication with colleagues.
• Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal procedures and policies related to laboratory operations and biospecimen handling.
• Adapt to changing workload demands and perform overtime when needed to support project timelines.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in the sciences, with Biology strongly preferred.
• Strong data entry skills with proficient typing and high accuracy.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to maintain precise records.
• Comfortable with specimen preparation, specimen processing, and specimen handling.
• Ability to handle human biological specimens, including saliva, DNA, blood, urine, stool, and tissue samples.
• Previous experience in a clinical laboratory or closely related work environment.
• Proficiency with MS Office applications and Microsoft Teams.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Ability to perform work with a high level of accuracy and consistency.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and work while sitting or standing for extended periods.
• Ability to work in protective equipment and follow safety protocols.
• Capability to work independently with minimal supervision and effectively in a team environment.
• High level of attention to detail combined with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Willingness and ability to work overtime when required to meet project deadlines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous medical or laboratory experience, such as medical technologist or medical assistant background.
• Science background or knowledge, particularly in biology or related disciplines.
• Experience with specimen collection, specimen processing, specimen handling, specimen pickup, and specimen labeling.
• Experience with clinical trials or clinical research environments.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance, regulatory affairs, and documentation standards in laboratory settings.
• Experience with inventory management and biobanking processes.
• Comfort working in a high-throughput testing facility environment.
• Strong time management skills and ability to meet production and quality targets.

Work Environment

This role is based in a laboratory setting focused on biobanking, bioprocessing, and analytics, supporting high-volume testing, including saliva, DNA, blood, urine, stool, and other human biological specimens. The work environment involves regular use of laboratory information management systems (LIMS), bioinventory software, and standard office tools such as MS Office and Microsoft Teams. You will work at laboratory benches, workstations, and loading areas, wearing appropriate protective equipment and following strict safety and regulatory protocols. The position requires the ability to lift up to 40 pounds, stand or sit for extended periods, and handle medical and chemical waste safely. The culture emphasizes collaboration, respect among colleagues, accuracy, and compliance, with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to public health and scientific initiatives. Overtime may be required during peak project periods, and workspaces are kept clean and sanitized to support a safe and efficient testing facility.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Piscataway, NJ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Piscataway,NJ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 17, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.