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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

TH Medical

Senior Lab Assistant

Detroit, MI

Assists in training in the appropriate phlebotomy and specimen processing policies and procedures ... complex processing and/or phlebotomy issues utilizing appropriate skills and knowledge gained ...

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How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Detroit, MI is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.08 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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Detroit, MI? For Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:
Complex Specimen Processor jobs near you
Cytogenetic Technologist II

Cytogenetic Technologist II

Quest Diagnostics

Royal Oak, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Job Description
Cytogenetic Technologist II - Royal Oak, MI, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Benefits Information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
• Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
• Best-in-class well-being programs
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
• healthyMINDS mental health program
• Vacation and Health/Flex Time
• 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
• FinFit financial coaching and services
• 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Matching gifts program
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
• Career advancement opportunities
• and so much more!
Performs difficult/complex tests requiring the exercise of independent judgment and responsibility in those sub-specialties in which they are qualified by education, training, and experience.
Responsibilities
  • If job assignment includes tissue culture: accurately and efficiently perform tissue culture of assigned specimen types, including culture initiation, maintenance, harvest, slide preparation and staining for microscopic analysis.
  • If job assignment includes microscopic analysis: perform accurate microscopic/post-microscopic analyses of assigned specimen types, including preparing karyotypes using established cytogenetic laboratory procedures.
  • If job assignment includes molecular cytogenetics: accurately and efficiently perform FISH or array on assigned specimen types, including maintaining appropriate QC and maintenance records. Perform accurate analysis of FISH or array on assigned specimen types.
  • If job assignment includes fluorescence in situ hybridization: accurately and efficiently process assigned specimen types, including slide preparation, pretreatment, hybridization, post wash, and counterstain for microscopic analysis using appropriate quality control standards. Perform accurate microscopic/post-microscopic analyses of assigned specimen types meeting or exceeding established productivity and quality control standards.
  • Responsible for the more difficult/complex laboratory testing activities and review of work of other technologists.
  • Document and maintain tissue culture and/or microscopy analysis records completely and accurately.
  • Document chromosome or FISH abnormalities using correct ISCN nomenclature and best assessment of breakpoints.
  • Ensure accurate specimen processing/test results by strict adherence to testing methodology and quality standards.
  • Adhere to analytical schedules to maintain turnaround time of results including STATS or critical results to clients.
  • Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional and sanitary condition.
  • Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate.
  • Assist in training of other laboratory personnel, students and fellows.
  • Assists in developing/ validating new procedures in order to improve quality, efficiency, or accuracy. Participates in research, development, and implementation of new testing methodologies/modifications.
  • Adheres to all established CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA and laboratory safety requirements.
  • Required to use (a) personal protective equipment, (b) engineering controls and/or (c) work practice controls as directed by management.
  • Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections, if needed.
  • May be required, in the absence of a Supervisor, to assume lead responsibilities if qualified and delegated.
  • Other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.

Qualifications
Required Work Experience:
Minimum of four (4) years (3 years as a Cytogenetics Technologist) full-time experience in a clinical Cytogenetics laboratory.
A degree or certificate from an accredited Cytogenetics training program may be substituted for the year of experience.
Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects: Objects 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally; objects 36 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted or carried and objects over 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
  • Microscopic analysis requires extended periods sitting at a microscope.
  • Tissue culture and wet lab areas require extended periods of standing, sitting at a biohazard hood, or pipetting.
  • FISH requires the ability to stand or sit for long periods possibly in a small darkroom environment.
  • Ability to stand and work at the bench for long periods of time.
  • Frequent walking and/or standing.
  • May be required to use a wide variety of manual and automated pipettes and laboratory instruments and apparatuses all of which demand significant manual dexterity.

Knowledge:
  • Comprehensive theoretical and operational knowledge of job assignment(s) in Cytogenetics.
  • Knowledge of organizational/departmental policies and procedures.

Skills:
  • Requires manual dexterity and excellent pattern recognition skills.
  • Must be detail-oriented, have the ability to work independently, establish work priorities and handle several tasks simultaneously for maximum department efficiency.
  • Interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with supervisors, co-workers and clients.
  • Communication skills necessary to handle telephone inquiries from clients.
  • Ability to deal with client information in a confidential manner.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.

Education
  • Bachelor's Degree Science. Foreign educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF (International Education Research Foundation). United States educated candidates must provide a detailed original transcript. (Required)

Licenses and Certifications
  • Current ASCP Certification in Cytogenetics [ASCP-CG] (Preferred)

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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