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Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Specimen Processor

Northridge, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... assist the Operations Manager in the maintenance of the daily workflow throughout the entire ... Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Quickly and accurately, process specimen requisitions, carefully ...

Specimen Processor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

... assistant background and experience. *Interview preference: phone/teams Briefly state the main ... Process stock transfers and material requests * Follow provided control procedures to complete ...

Specimen Processing - send out testing, resulting or referral testing * Participation in special ... Need to walk and assist with transporting/ambulating patients and obtaining and distributing ...

Specimen Processing - send out testing, resulting or referral testing * Participation in special ... Need to walk and assist with transporting/ambulating patients and obtaining and distributing ...

May assist in training employees in any Specimen Processing job function and may provide ongoing training * Adheres to all Quest Diagnostics policies and procedures, including Safety and Compliance

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.01 - $22.95 / hour Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.01 - $22.95 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

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Assistant Specimen Processor information

What does a typical shift look like for an Assistant Specimen Processor, and how is the work environment structured?

As an Assistant Specimen Processor, a typical shift involves receiving, labeling, and preparing biological samples for laboratory analysis, often under time-sensitive conditions. You’ll work closely with laboratory technicians, couriers, and administrative staff to ensure specimens are processed accurately and efficiently. The work environment is usually fast-paced and requires strict adherence to safety and quality protocols. Teamwork and effective communication are essential, as the role frequently involves coordinating with different departments to maintain workflow and meet turnaround times.

What is the highest paying career in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying careers often include roles such as laboratory directors, research scientists, and clinical laboratory managers, who typically require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions usually offer higher salaries due to their leadership responsibilities and specialized expertise.

How do I become a specimen processor?

To become an assistant specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must undergo on-the-job training to learn specimen handling, labeling, and processing procedures. Some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory safety and the use of processing equipment; certifications are generally not mandatory but can enhance job prospects.

What is the difference between Assistant Specimen Processor vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAssistant Specimen ProcessorLaboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training providedPost-secondary education, often an associate degree or certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, handling specimens and preparing samplesLaboratory environments, performing tests and analyzing samples
Employer & IndustryHospitals, diagnostic labs, clinicsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic facilities
Common Search/ComparisonAssistant Specimen Processor vs Laboratory Technician

The Assistant Specimen Processor primarily handles specimen preparation and processing with minimal formal education, while Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often requiring specialized training or certification. Both roles work in laboratory settings within healthcare and diagnostic industries, but Laboratory Technicians typically have broader responsibilities and higher qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and sample tracking tools is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure timely and accurate processing of specimens. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining sample integrity and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What are Assistant Specimen Processors?

Assistant Specimen Processors are laboratory support staff responsible for handling, labeling, and preparing biological specimens such as blood, urine, or tissue samples for analysis. They ensure samples are correctly identified, sorted, and stored according to strict protocols to maintain sample integrity. These professionals may also enter patient data, assist with basic lab tasks, and help maintain a clean and organized work environment. Their work is crucial in preventing errors and supporting laboratory technicians and technologists in delivering accurate test results.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be an assistant specimen processor, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory technology or related fields. Attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a team are also important.

What does a specimen processor do?

A specimen processor prepares biological samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue, for laboratory testing by labeling, sorting, and ensuring proper storage. They operate laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and maintain accurate records to support diagnostic processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processor jobs in California? The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Specimen Processor

Specimen Processor

United Westlabs

Northridge, CA • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

All employees are expected to
perform their duties in alignment with the vision and values of the
organization. The person doing this job is responsible for a variety of tasks
that lead to a high level of customer satisfaction in the most cost effective
manner. Under the direction of the Operations Manager, this position is
responsible for a variety of tasks that assist the Operations Manager in the
maintenance of the daily workflow throughout the entire program.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Quickly and accurately, process specimen requisitions, carefully insuring that all relevant information
is accurate and all tests requested are ordered.

2. Correctly, match test requested with appropriate specimen and label according to established
procedures.

3. Process STAT specimens in a timely manner

4. Print out patient charts when called upon

5. Assist all callers by providing accurate information on a timely and positive manner

6. Maintain a clean and safe work environment for all members of the health care team including the
collecting and disposing of specimens and other contaminated material according
to established procedure with the adherence to the standards of infection
control and body fluid precautions and protective equipment when necessary.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Participates in the billing process, including separating clean and dirty requisitions or cleaning dirty
requisitions, if called upon.

2. Any other task for the Operations Manager not included.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience

- Knowledge and aptitude for basic computer skills

- Demonstration of telephone etiquette

- Organization and problem solving skills

- Evaluative and interpretive skills

- Ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions in work environment

- Interpersonal skills

- Knowledge of medical terminology

Physical Requirements:

- Continuous sitting (up to 8 hrs/day)

- Continuous walking/standing (up to 8 hrs/day)

- Simple grasping with both hands

- Fine manipulation with both hands, repetitive movement

- Frequent lifting of 10 lb. or less;

- Continuous Typing