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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Performs a variety of basic and complex Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control, quality assurance, and waived, moderate or high complexity testing (as ...

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Stockton, CA · On-site

$61.76 - $77.20/hr

Performs a variety of basic and complex Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control, quality assurance, and waived, moderate or high complexity testing (as ...

Performs a variety of basic and complex Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control, quality assurance, and waived, moderate or high complexity testing (as ...

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$64.85 - $81.06/hr

Performs a variety of basic and complex Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control, quality assurance, and waived, moderate or high complexity testing (as ...

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Complex Specimen Processor information

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

To thrive as a Complex Specimen Processor, you need strong attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring experience in a clinical or laboratory setting. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen tracking software, and standard lab equipment is essential. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure specimen integrity, accurate processing, and timely workflow, which are critical for reliable laboratory results and patient care.

What are Complex Specimen Processors?

Complex Specimen Processors are laboratory professionals responsible for receiving, handling, and preparing biological samples—such as blood, tissue, or urine—for analysis and testing. They ensure that specimens are properly labeled, sorted, and processed according to strict protocols, often working with more challenging or specialized samples that require extra attention to detail. Their work is crucial for accurate diagnostic results and supports the efficiency and safety of the laboratory environment.

What jobs in the US pay $300,000 a year?

Complex specimen processors typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or highly experienced specialists in fields like healthcare, law, or finance. Most laboratory or processing roles have lower salary ranges, but advanced positions with additional certifications or management responsibilities can reach higher six-figure incomes.

What is the difference between Complex Specimen Processor vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectComplex Specimen ProcessorMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology, certification required
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, processing specimensLaboratory, performing tests and analyzing samples
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing and processing complex specimens, ensuring sample integrityPerforming tests, analyzing results, maintaining lab equipment

While both roles work in laboratory environments, Complex Specimen Processors focus on preparing and processing complex specimens, often requiring specialized training. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform a broader range of testing and analysis, with formal education and certification. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in medical labs.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Medical Laboratory Managers tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certification, and they oversee laboratory operations and compliance, leading to higher compensation compared to other laboratory roles like Complex Specimen Processors.

What is a complex specimen processor?

A complex specimen processor is a laboratory professional responsible for preparing and processing challenging or unusual biological samples for testing. This role often requires knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with specialized equipment and safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by Complex Specimen Processors, and how can they be addressed?

Complex Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, ensuring precise labeling, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures. To address these challenges, it is essential to stay organized, double-check specimen identification, and follow standardized protocols meticulously. Working closely with laboratory technicians and communicating effectively with team members can help prevent errors and ensure timely processing. Additionally, staying up-to-date with laboratory information systems and safety procedures can further streamline workflow and support accuracy.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Complex Specimen Processor typically earns less than $10,000 per month, as this role usually offers moderate wages. High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 monthly without a degree often include specialized trades like commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, which require experience, certifications, or licenses rather than a traditional degree.
What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs? Cities in California with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:
Infographic showing various Complex Specimen Processor job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Sutter Health

Modesto, CA

$61.76 - $77.20/hr

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago


Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 314 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!

Organization:

SGMF-Sutter Gould Med Foundation

Position Overview:

Executes procedures in assigned areas of the Laboratory to deliver accurate results in a timely manner. Maintains competence to perform pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic procedures on biological specimens to aid health care providers in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and prevention of disease. Performs a variety of basic and complex Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control, quality assurance, and waived, moderate or high complexity testing (as classified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments - CLIA). If assigned to the Transfusion Service, performs moderate or high complexity testing and other duties such as blood inventory management, blood product preparation, and issuing blood products for transfusion. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure patient privacy and maintain the highest level of safety and reliability in testing.

Job Description:


EDUCATION:
Bachelor's degree in biology or related field
CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE:
CA Licensed Clinical Laboratory Scientist
TYPICAL EXPERIENCE:
2 years recent relevant experience.
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
Demonstrated knowledge and technical competence in routine specimen collection, preparation, testing applications, laboratory operations, and quality assurance in one or more assigned clinical specialty areas; examples: Chemistry, Special Chemistry, Hematology/Coagulation, Urinalysis and Transfusion Service.
Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks. Demonstrates sound judgment and problem solving relevant to assigned duties.
Ability to compassionately and effectively interact with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behaviors
Workflow Management Ability to appropriately respond to:
1) Fluctuations in volume.
2) Unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or information systems failure.
3) Shift-to-Shift hand-offs.
4) STAT test orders.
5) Specimen integrity issues.
6) Regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.
Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence. Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.
Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.
Ability to organize and prioritize job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected timeframes.

Job Shift:

Day/Evening

Schedule:

Per Diem/Casual

Shift Hours:

8

Days of the Week:

Variable

Weekend Requirements:

Rotating Weekends

Benefits:

No

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Non-Exempt

Weekly Hours:

0

Employee Status:

Per Diem/Casual

Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.

Pay Range is $61.76 to $77.20 / hour

The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.


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