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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Huntsville, AL

Experience with metallurgical specimen preparation and inspection * Bachelor's degree with a ... Experience troubleshooting and maintaining complex AM equipment, including laser optics, process ...

Experience with metallurgical specimen preparation and inspection * Bachelor's degree with a ... Experience troubleshooting and maintaining complex AM equipment, including laser optics, process ...

Complex Specimen Processor information

See Huntsville, AL salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Huntsville, AL is $17.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $17.98 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 Huntsville, AL?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Complex Specimen Processor job openings in Huntsville, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,925 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Discovery Life Sciences:

Discovery Life Sciences (Discovery) is a leading provider of highly characterized human biospecimens and cellular starting materials to advance cell and gene therapy and precision medicine programs for cancer, infectious disease, and other complex conditions. We routinely manage hundreds of studies and expertly test thousands of biospecimens simultaneously. Leading biopharma, diagnostic and academic institutions trust us to quickly deliver high-quality biospecimens and reliable, reproducible biomarker data, so they can outpace their competition and push the leading edge of innovation using our Science at your Service TM business model.

Position Summary:

Discovery Life Sciences is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Study Coordinator to join our Proteomics team within the Specialty Lab Services Division. This role plays a critical part in supporting translational research and retrospective clinical studies by coordinating sample logistics, maintaining study documentation, and ensuring excellence in laboratory and administrative processes.

The chosen candidate will help drive efficient, compliant, and scientifically rigorous study execution through effective sample management, cross-functional collaboration, and adherence to quality standards. This is an exciting opportunity for a laboratory professional who is passionate about advancing human health and contributing to groundbreaking research that improves patient outcomes.

A Day in the Life of a Study Coordinator at Discovery Life Sciences:

  • Coordinate the receipt, accessioning, tracking, storage, and distribution of human biological samples supporting client studies and internal research initiatives.
  • Partner closely with scientific teams, project managers, and laboratory operations to ensure samples are handled according to study-specific requirements and timelines.
  • Prepare, aliquot, plate, and process samples for downstream proteomics workflows while adhering to SOPs and quality standards.
  • Monitor sample inventory and storage conditions to ensure integrity and regulatory compliance.

Must-Have Qualifications (Education, Skills, Experience):

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Life Sciences, or a related scientific field
  • Minimum 3–5 years of laboratory experience; GCLP or regulated laboratory experience preferred.
  • Understanding and compliance to regulatory requirements related to laboratory operations and human specimen handling.
  • Strong laboratory skills, including pipetting, documentation, and adherence to SOPs.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
  • Experience with Sapio or other analogous laboratory information management systems (LIMS)  strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot, work independently, and manage multiple concurrent projects.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare, organize, and maintain tracking sheets and sample records.
  • Coordinate timelines, deliverables, and resource needs across teams (project management, scientific leads, and logistics).
  • Adhere to internal SOPs, quality standards, and applicable regulatory guidelines.
  • Foster professional working relationships with clients, collaborators, and internal teams.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and contribute to the development or revision of SOPs, workflows, and technical policies.
  • Lead and oversee the receipt, registration, accessioning, storage, and disposition of human biological samples for client studies and internal research and development.
  • Maintain accurate chainofcustody documentation and ensure compliance with sample handling requirements.
  • Monitor sample inventory, storage conditions, and sample movement throughout the laboratory.
  • Aliquot, plate, and prepare samples for downstream workflows according to established protocols.
  • Collaborate with scientific project leads to ensure proper sample handling for each study’s technical requirements.
  • Work with laboratory logistics to maintain adequate supplies and sample management materials.
  • Support the development and implementation of sample storage workflows and LIMSbased tracking processes.
  • Prepare sample shipments and coordinate with internal and external partners as needed.
  • Work with the project management team to process data queries and ensure timely and accurate actions in accordance with client responses
  • In coordination with the project management team, enter and maintain patient, sample, and studyrelated data in LIMS and other tracking systems.
  • Follow laboratory safety policies, universal precautions, and procedures for handling human specimens.
  • Operate laboratory equipment according to established protocols and assist in troubleshooting issues.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal quality standards.
  • Contribute to a culture of scientific excellence, continuous learning, and proactive collaboration.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.  These may, on occasion, be unrelated to the position described here.
  • Maintain consistent onsite attendance to support laboratory and samplehandling activities.

Compensation and Benefits:

Discovery Life Sciences is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices, and we strive to provide employees with total compensation packages that are market competitive. Candidates hired to work in other locations will be subject to the pay range associated with that location, and the actual annualized salary amount offered to any candidate at the time of hire will be reflected solely in the candidate’s offer letter. The exact base pay offered for this role will depend on various factors, including the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience. Your annual salary is only one part of your total compensation package. Other benefits include:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package options, including a free dental, vision package, life insurance, and disability coverage which start on your first day of employment.
  • 401(k) match program which starts on your first day of employment.
  • Time away from work (Generous vacation and paid time off, paid parental leave, paid family leave, etc.).
  • Professional development opportunities and reimbursement for relevant certifications and tuition.
  • Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity.
  • Team-building activities and social events.
  • Employee Referral Program and Colleague Recognition Program.

Location, work hours, and application details:

  • Onsite – Huntsville, AL
  • Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm
  • Less than 5% domestic or international travel required for mandatory site meetings and trainings

We are actively seeking motivated, dedicated individuals like you to join our thriving organization. As a leader in our industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and success.

The Discovery Life Sciences Talent Acquisition team proudly manages and represents all Discovery recruitment activities.  We respectfully request that third party staffing agencies refrain from submitting candidates or soliciting meetings to discuss recruiting services.

We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorships of any applicant work visas at this time.


Apply Now to join our team!
Visit dls.com/careers for more details.