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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting ... Minimum of 1 year of clinical laboratory experience in highly complex testing for those with BS/BA ...

Complex Specimen Processor information

What is a complex specimen processor?

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 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 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 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.

How do I become a complex specimen processor?

To become a complex specimen processor, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in laboratory procedures and specimen handling. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and sometimes certification in phlebotomy or laboratory technology, depending on the employer's requirements.

What skills do you need to be a complex specimen processor?

A complex specimen processor needs strong attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to follow precise protocols. Knowledge of laboratory procedures, familiarity with medical terminology, and proficiency with laboratory equipment are also important. Often, certifications in phlebotomy or laboratory technology are preferred, and the role may require working in a fast-paced environment with strict safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Maine?

For Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Maine are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities in Maine with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Complex Specimen Processor job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

In Vivo Technologist II, Rare Disease Translational Center

The Jackson Laboratory

Bar Harbor, ME • On-site

$20.15 - $33.74/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


The Jackson Laboratory rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

The Jackson Laboratory is seeking an In Vivo Technologist to join the Rare Disease Translational Center (RDTC) team in Bar Harbor, Maine!
The In Vivo Technologist supports In Vivo operations by executing all tasks and activities under moderate supervision and according to SOPs, protocols, and other working directives. The incumbent is responsible for performing basic biomethods and/or humanized procedures, including dosing, bio-specimen collection, shipping prep, and blood processing. Additional responsibilities include animal husbandry, cage-side observations, shaving, grouping, ear tagging, sample shipping, lab maintenance, and operation of basic laboratory equipment. Level I technologists are expected to co-lead on different study types with the ability to follow complex operating procedures and solve common problems. This individual will be a collaborative member of the cross functional In Vivo department. Previous cell culture and flow cytometry skills are a plus!
The JAX RDTC supports the overall mission of The Jackson Laboratory: To discover precise genomic solution for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health. The JAX RDTC leverages JAX's unique research environment and resources to translate biological discovery into clinical action We work directly with foundations and their associated teams of basic science and clinical researchers to understand the molecular underpinnings of disease symptoms, identify pathways that can be targeted therapeutically, and assess the safety and efficacy of candidate drugs and therapies in biologically accurate mouse models of disease. This position is an exciting opportunity to work directly with the RDTC in supporting this mission.
Responsibilities
• Best practices and standard processes in daily work which support efficiencies, quality, safety, with a customer service focus. Basic lab animal handling skills. General lab sanitation. Provide proactive animal care support to alert the In Vivo team of environmental or unexpected/adverse study-related observations directly impacting animal welfare.
• Consistently completing assignments on time.
• Demonstrate ability to seek out appropriate personnel resources to address non-routine questions.
• Demonstrate ability to comply with all laboratory SOP's and policies.
• Accurate entry of data including lab IT systems and databases.
• Maintain appropriate documentation as required by protocols and SOP's.
• Perform basic biomethods such as handling (i.e restraint, ear notch, clinical observations, body weights, tail tipping), dosing (i.e. PO, SC,IP, IV), blood collection, basic necropsy and blood processing.
Qualifications
• Two (2) year associate science degree; Completion of a Bachelors degree in a life science field strongly preferred.
• Regular and dependable attendance to maintain work flow.
• Demonstrated successful record keeping skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills sufficient to permit clear and effective exchange of information with people representing a wide diversity of disciplines and levels of sophistication.
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment while consistently maintain a positive and professional demeanor. Ability to be flexible and multi-task.
• Ability to work with computer software and databases such as Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.
Pay Range: $20.15 - $33.74, pay determined by experience
About JAX:
The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.
Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org.
EEO Statement:
The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.

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