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Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Imh

Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor

Fresno, CA

$19.29 - $24.62/hr

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 ...

Imh

Phlebotomist/ Specimen Processor

Fresno, CA

$19.29 - $24.62/hr

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 ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

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Assistant Specimen Processor information

What is an assistant specimen processor?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant specimen processor?

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 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 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.

How do you become an assistant specimen processor?

To become an assistant specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must be detail-oriented with good organizational skills. On-the-job training is usually provided, and familiarity with laboratory procedures and safety protocols can be beneficial. Some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory equipment or certifications in handling biological specimens.

What does an assistant specimen processor do?

An assistant specimen processor helps prepare and handle biological samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue, for laboratory testing. They typically assist with labeling, sorting, and processing specimens using laboratory equipment, ensuring proper storage and documentation to support accurate diagnostic results.

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:

Assistant Specimen Processor jobs near you
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 Processing Group Lead

Quest Diagnostics

San Juan Capistrano, CA • On-site

$22.48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description


Specimen Processing Group Lead - San Juan Capistrano, CA, Monday to Friday, 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Pay range: $26.04 - $27.41 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

This position assists the department supervisors by performing combinations of the following activities: Schedule coordination, general supervision of all Specimen Technicians, providing input to supervisors for performance review and disciplinary action. The Group leader typically leads 8 - 12 employees, is involved in process and compliance audits and may be responsible for performing duties listed below. Priority consideration given to internal candidates for this position.
Responsibilities
  • Demonstrates a proficiency and understanding of all job duties in Specimen Processing department
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem resolution skills; ability to work effectively with the technical departments to resolve problems and gain cooperation as needed
  • Assists all SPT's in proper test selection and problem resolution
  • Answers and clarifies employee questions (including laboratory personnel) regarding processing
  • Provides appropriate feedback to supervisor(s) when problems arise.
  • Completes appropriate shift paperwork, setting up for production, and insuring that their staff has cleaned up at the end of the shift
  • Monitors supply inventory, ordering supplies as needed
  • Repairs and maintains department equipment notifying appropriate personnel when repairs beyond the general scope are required
  • Assists in or performing all training, cross training and department auditing functions as assigned by the supervisor(s)
  • Perform all other job duties as assigned
  • In addition to above, the group leader may assist the supervisor(s) in the following:
  • Prioritizing work assignments
  • Monitoring production and activity of all SPT's in order to meet departmental deadlines
  • Coaching for improved performance by providing appropriate feedback and maintaining a positive work environment
  • Ensures effective employee utilization through workforce planning to include staffing weekends and holidays
  • Makes suggestions and recommendations to enhance workflow
  • Helps manage department overtime
  • Ensures that all Quest Diagnostics Incorporated and Specimen Processing policies and procedures are adhered to

Qualifications
"
Required Work Experience:
Internal candidates minimum of one year in SPT III/related role
Preferred Work Experience:
  • 3 years experience in a laboratory environment with Specimen Processing experience preferred.
  • Medical background preferred which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory

Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • Performs multiple tasks simultaneously and with interruptions, physical and mental stress
  • Works in a biohazard environment and practices good safety habits
  • Able to sit or stand for long periods

Skills:
  • PC skills including the ability to run reports & use to manage workflow; real-time thru-put
  • Maintains confidentiality at all times. Will have access to overall employee performance, may have knowledge of disciplinary actions up to, and including termination.
  • Demonstrates leadership by example, exhibiting good attendance, good decision making, and keep the team on task
  • Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment
  • Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability
  • Drives frequent employee interaction on the floor providing feedback, coaching, and guidance
  • Demonstrates excellent communication skills and ability to answer questions with both internal and external clients
  • Adheres to Quest Diagnostics core values, safety, and compliance policies and procedures
  • Works under pressure and assists department in maintaining productivity and quality goals
  • Ability to diffuse tense situations and applies good judgment when making decisions and resolving problems

Education
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Preferred)

Pursuant to code CA BPC 1269 under CLIA, any lab releasing results for California work must have at least a High School Diploma or equivalent.
Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with the following laws if applicable, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the California Fair Chance Act.
Quest believes that conviction records may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship to the following job duties: accessing company property, information, assets, and products including sensitive information; accessing customer data or confidential information, and partnering and regularly working with or supervising other Quest employees and interacting with Quest customers.
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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