Specimen Management Technician Trainee - Program

The UVA Earn While You Learn Trainee Program provides structured coursework and paid on-the-job training as a full-time, benefited employee.

We are currently reviewing applications for October 2026. All Earn While You Learn programs are based in Charlottesville, VA and surrounding counties.

Join a culture that encourages growth, teamwork, diversity, pride, efficiency, and exceptional patient care. Whether you are starting your very first job or want to start a new career in healthcare, the Earn While You Learn training programs could be the place for you.

During training: $16.00 per hour + benefits

Upon successful completion of training: $19.15 per hour + benefits

You will be paid a total of 40 hours per week. All course fees will be paid by UVA Health in return for a 1‑year full‑time commitment as an employee at UVA Health once the course is completed.

• Work in a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory environment where every day is different and your work directly supports patient care.
• Learn a wide range of laboratory processes, including specimen receiving and verification, test ordering, specimen processing, aliquoting blood and other body fluids, and identifying various specimen collection tubes.
• Follow established laboratory procedures and quality standards to ensure accurate specimen handling and testing.
• Actively move between work areas, alternating between standing, sitting, and walking while handling specimens, answering phone calls, collaborating with team members, and resolving issues as they arise.
• Work collaboratively with a team dedicated to ensuring specimens are processed accurately and delivered on time.
• Develop strong problem‑solving, customer service, and communication skills while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
• Demonstrate reliability, adaptability, and a commitment to following policies and procedures in a safety‑focused environment.

• Laboratory operations run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including rotating weekends and holidays.
• Employees may be designated as essential personnel during severe weather or emergency events and are expected to report to work as scheduled.
• When unexpected staffing needs arise, additional shifts may occasionally be assigned through the laboratory's staffing process after volunteer coverage has been considered.
• As the laboratory expands, this position may relocate to the North Fork Research Park in Fall 2027.

• Education:
  
  High school graduate or equivalent (GED).
• Experience:
  
  No experience required.
• Licensure:
  None required.

Job requires sitting, standing for prolonged periods, frequently traveling, and reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive); repetitive motion: computer data entry. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; attention to detail and ability to write legibly; ability to lift/push/pull 20–50 lbs. May be exposed to fumes, chemicals, heat, cold, noise, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.

• Comprehensive Benefits Package:
  Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off, Long-term and Short-term Disability, Retirement Savings
• Health Saving Plans and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Certification and education support
• Generous Paid Time Off

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.