1

Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Complex Specimen Processor information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

$12

$16

$20

How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Chattanooga, TN is $16.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $16.63 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 Chattanooga, TN?

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

What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Chattanooga, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:

What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Complex Specimen Processor job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,122 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Medical Technologist Lead-Baroness Lab-Full-Time

Medicine Journal

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Summary:
The Lead Medical Technologist performs various laboratory procedures in assigned areas. Is responsible for managing assigned selected aspects of laboratory processes or shifts, which may include workflow, quality control process, performance improvement activities, training of new employees, advanced problem solving for customers and coworkers, department equipment or computer maintenance and upgrades, writing/reviewing procedures, or other tasks assigned. Work customarily involves analytical testing of blood and/or human biological specimens. Analytical laboratory testing generally requires a moderate to high degree of theoretical and practical knowledge and expertise in licensed area(s). Various pre-and post-analytical work processes are included in the work duties customarily performed. Follows laboratory policies and procedures; maintains quality control practices in the Laboratory. Actively participates in outstanding customer service and accepts responsibility in maintaining relationships that are equally respectful to all. A certified Medical Technologist performs a wide variety of laboratory procedures requiring independent judgment and using both manual and automated methods.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Assists with staff schedule preparation and workflow assignments as requested.
2. Assess competencies according to Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) regulations
3. Manages quality assessment and technical oversight, problem solving, scheduling, interviewing applicants, provides input for staff performance, oversees training and competency evaluations
4. Assists the Laboratory management with special projects as assigned.
5. Reads, examines, and interprets complex test results. Serves as a resource and addresses complex tests/procedures
6. Manages instrument maintenance and troubleshooting practices
7. Leads quality control and quality assurance testing
8. Assists with data collection and special projects, as assigned
9. Performs assigned pre-analytical activities related to laboratory testing, which may include general and analytical equipment maintenance, function checks and documentation; inventory control and supply stocking, specimen collection as needed; biological specimen processing; cleaning and disinfection of selected or assigned laboratory equipment and spaces; quality control and calibration performance; and other pre-analytical activities
10. Performs all expected tests and analytical procedures for assigned department or work area efficiently and accurately, according to established procedures, performance standards, and departmental competency standards. Participates in proficiency testing, consistently adhering to federal and state regulations as well as Institutional policies
11. Performs post-analytical activities related to laboratory testing, reporting results (including highly abnormal results) in accordance with established procedures. Provides and acts on technical and support information related to the elements of laboratory testing for all age groups, neonatal through geriatric patients.
Education:
Required:
Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology or related biological science and 12-months approved clinical training in a NACCLS approved program or equivalent.
Preferred:
Experience:
Required:
Three years of moderate and high complexity technical laboratory experience
Preferred:
Position Requirement(s): License/Certification/Registration
Required:
MT/CLS (ASCP) certification or equivalent.
Preferred:
State of Tennessee licensure Medical Laboratory Technologist
Department Position Summary:
The Lead Medical Technologist performs chemical, microscopic and bacteriological testing of body fluids to obtain data for diagnosis and treatment of disease under the direction of a Coordinator. He/she works closely with the Supervisor and other Technicians/Technologists in an atmosphere of continuous quality improvement. He/she performs duties as assigned by a Clinical Lab Supervisor, Clinical Lab Manager, and/or Administrative Laboratory Director.
The employee must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served in his/her section. The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age specific needs and to provide the care needed as described in the unit's policies and procedures.