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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Birmingham, AL

UAB NOVA RENT

RESEARCHER ASSOCIATE

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$19.80 - $32.15/hr

... processing, and maintenance of the electronic specimen log. Additional duties will include ... more complex studies and analyses, contributing to the advancement of research projects. With ...

MOLECULAR DESIGNS

Lab Technician- Night Shift

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

... PCR process, its importance, and work through each complex step with the upmost efficiency. The ... assorted specimen types · Perform PCR sequencing methods · Evaluate results to determine ...

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Complex Specimen Processor information

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How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Birmingham, AL is $16.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Birmingham, AL?

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

What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Birmingham, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Birmingham, AL are:

What cities near Birmingham, AL are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Birmingham, AL with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:

Complex Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Complex Specimen Processor job openings in Birmingham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,121 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

RESEARCHER ASSOCIATE

UAB NOVA RENT

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$19.80 - $32.15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Ctr for Clinical & Translational Sci, is seeking a Researcher Associate. The person in this position will be expected to work in the CCTS SPAN Core laboratory facilities in both the Jefferson Tower 15th floor (within the CCTS Clinical Research Unit/Phase I unit) and the lab in Shelby 230. Work in the lab will include receipt of clinical research specimens from nursing and clinical coordinator staff, logging of specimens into a clinical trials database, routine specimen processing, and maintenance of the electronic specimen log. Additional duties will include maintenance of the specimen inventory database, storage and retrieval of specimens from the freezers, running inventory reports from the database, maintain compliance with quality management plans as required by laboratory certification.
General Responsibilities
As a Researcher Associate, this intermediate-level position will require you to independently conduct more complex studies and analyses, contributing to the advancement of research projects. With greater autonomy, you will design experiments, interpret data, and collaborate with senior researchers to develop and refine research protocols. Your role may also include mentoring junior staff and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research collaborator contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
  1. Assists the PI in the execution of the laboratory.
  2. Quality Management Plan and standard operating procedures.
  3. Documents receipt of human research specimens and processes/stores specimens according to standard operating procedures.
  4. Documents and executes requests for specimens stored in the biorepository.
  5. Performs other duties as assigned.

Hourly Range : $19.80 - $32.15
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a related field OR Associate's degree in a related field and two (2) years of related experience OR High School diploma or GED and four (4) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.
Preferences
  • Degree - Biomedical Science, Chemistry, etc.
  • Laboratory technique skills associated with working in a GSL2 Lab, including sterile cell culture work.
  • Ability to separate human white blood cells into a cell subset.
  • Cryopreservation of human white blood cells and the ability to perform in vitro culture of human cells.
  • Knowledge and ability to work within our enterprise database system.
  • Ability to multi-task, maintain records and filing systems, problem-solve, read and write, and be able to comprehend written and oral instructions.
  • Ability to train others, use a personal computer and related software, work as part of a team, and work independently.
  • KSA: Analytical skills, Conflict resolution skills, Electronic database searching skills, Interpersonal skills, Organizational skills, Prioritization skills, Process improvement and quality skills, Project management skills, Written and verbal communication skills.
  • Familiarity with the process of clinical lab certification is desired. Specific skills related to WHO/ISO level Quality management plans and Corrective and preventive action (CAPA) plans are especially desired.

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.

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