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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Clarksville, TN

Coverage is required in specimen processing, hematology, chemistry, coagulation, urinalysis, basic ... Perform a variety of routine to highly complex tests, including but not limited to hematology ...

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Complex Specimen Processor information

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How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Clarksville, TN is $15.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Clarksville, TN? For Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Clarksville, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Clarksville, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Clarksville, TN are:
What cities near Clarksville, TN are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Clarksville, TN with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:

Complex Specimen Processor- Histology

Overland Park Regional Medical Center

Nashville, TN • On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Complex Specimen Processor- Histology

Do you want to join an organization that invests in you as a Complex Specimen Processor- Histology? At HCA Healthcare, you come first. HCA Healthcare has committed up to $300 million in programs to support our incredible team members over the course of three years.

Job Summary and Qualifications

The Complex Specimen Processor is responsible for management of all inbound and outbound microbiology, histology, and cytology samples including, tracking, accessioning, processing, problem specimens, and preparation for submission to referral laboratories. Works in a Market or Core Laboratory Setting. Performs duties consistent with written procedures and regulatory requirements. Supports the department in achieving department goals for service, quality, regulatory compliance, financial performance, patient satisfaction, healthy work environment, and integration of intra and inter-departmental activities.

Major Responsibilities

  • Tracks samples submitted from hospitals through receipt in laboratory. Follows up with courier service to address any missing samples in a timely manner
  • Receives laboratory specimens into the laboratory/pathology information system
  • Ensures positive patient identification in handling and labeling of specimens
  • Performs registration and order entry procedures, as requested, with accuracy, and in a timely manner
  • Labels specimens and aliquots according to established protocols and according to testing ordered
  • Demonstrates a thorough understanding of specimen collection, storage, transportation, and testing requirements as well as specimen rejection criteria
  • Assesses specimen requirements for testing and troubleshoots any specimen requirement or test request issues with submitting entity (laboratory/client).
  • Centrifuges and aliquots specimens appropriately, based on specimen type and tests ordered.
  • Prepares specimens to be ready for courier pick-up and includes special instructions as requested by physician orders
  • Discards laboratory specimens according to established schedule
  • Performs periodic preventive maintenance and quality assurance procedures as assigned
  • Keeps appropriate records/documentation relating to specimen problems and other problems encountered, takes corrective action as necessary to ensure validity and accuracy of testing
  • Cleans the area upon emergency spills of specimens

Referral Testing Functions:

  • Assesses specimen requirements for referral testing and troubleshoots any specimen requirement and/or referral testing specimen or order entry issues.
  • Processes, sorts, and prepares specimens for submission to referral laboratories for testing in accordance with specimen requirements for tests ordered.
  • Regularly monitors and reviews the status of referred testing to assure that results are received and made available to physicians within established turnaround times.
  • Reviews Outstanding Specimen Report (OSR) and pending referral testing issues; takes action as appropriate
  • Communicates and troubleshoots any problem specimens in a timely manner.

Hazardous Waste Handling Functions (as applicable)

  • Placing hazardous waste into appropriately labeled containers and keeping containers closed when not actively adding wastes.
  • Record "Start" and "Full Dates" on hazardous waste containers as required.
  • Complete and affix hazardous waste labels to appropriate hazardous waste storage containers.
  • Maintain Hazardous Waste Containers in the designated/documented storage areas.
  • Report any spills, cleanup of minor spills within abilities and follow the Emergency Response Activities described in the facility's Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan.

Education & Experience

  • a High School Diploma/GED required
  • Vocational/Technical Degree preferred
  • 1-3 years in a market or commercial clinical laboratory setting preferred
Benefits

HCA Healthcare, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include:

  • Comprehensive benefits for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health and telemedicine services
  • Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services
  • Time away from work programs for paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence
  • Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships, retirement readiness tools, rollover support and financial wellbeing counseling
  • Education support through tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing
  • Additional benefits for fertility and family building, adoption assistance, life insurance, supplemental health protection plans, auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection and consumer discounts

Learn more about Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

HCA Healthcare Laboratory Services is a full-service provider of clinical laboratory and anatomic pathology services, providing hospitals, physicians, and clients with timely diagnostic information for patient care. Our infrastructure includes a fully automated esoteric core laboratory in Fort Lauderdale, a histology and microbiology operation in Largo, Florida, and a network of hospital-based rapid-response laboratories in four HCA Healthcare divisions in Florida. Our core laboratories support over 250 acute and rehab hospitals, physician practices, surgery centers, and commercial accounts.

HCA Healthcare has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute more than ten times. In recent years, HCA Healthcare spent an estimated $3.7 billion in cost for the delivery of charitable care, uninsured discounts, and other uncompensated expenses

"Good people beget good people." - Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr. HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

We are a family 270,000 dedicated professionals! Our Talent Acquisition team is reviewing applications for our Complex Specimen Processor- Histology opening. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. Submit your resume today to join our community of caring!

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.