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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Long Beach, CA

* Follows the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing analysis, reporting and ... Performs all routine and new test procedures that are complex and require professional judgment ...

Medical Technician

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

Delivering such robust, personalized, and preventive health care is complex and requires a team ... specimen processing, performing assays, and quality troubleshooting. *MUST hold a current Medical ...

Medical Lab Assistant MLA II PRN

Cypress, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Demonstrates a working knowledge of specimen requirements for testing, processing, and proper waste ... Independently handles resolution of complex problems and issues and notifies management of issue ...

Responsibilities Specimen Collection & Processing * Perform specimen collections following ... Strong knowledge of phlebotomy best practices and more complex collection practices, including ...

The laboratory receives and processes specimens from the dermatology Offices and clinics throughout ... specimen identification and labeling. • Maintain the integrity of the specimen and patient ...

Medical Laboratory Assistant II

Cypress, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Demonstrates a working knowledge of specimen requirements for testing, processing, and proper waste ... Independently handles resolution of complex problems and issues and notifies management of issue ...

Grossing Technician

Burbank, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

The laboratory receives and processes specimens from the dermatology Offices and clinics throughout ... Responsibilities (including but not limited to): • Ensure appropriate specimen identification and ...

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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 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Long Beach, CA is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $19.23 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 cities near Long Beach, CA are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Long Beach, CA with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

TridentCare

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


TridentCare rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

493rd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

  • Follows the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing analysis, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results.

  • Ensuring that the patient's name and specimen number are correctly identified.

  • Type of specimen and time drawn is correct for the test ordered.

  • Specimen integrity has been maintained from the initial draw / pick-up of specimen(s) until arrival and completion of test(s) requested.

  • Follows the laboratory's procedures for handling potentially infectious materials.

  • Maintains records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient samples.

  • Adheres to the laboratory's quality control policies, documents all quality control activities instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed.

  • Follows the laboratory's quality control policies whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established levels of performance.

  • Capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results.

  • Documents all corrective action taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.

  • Documents all corrective action taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.

  • Performs all routine and new test procedures that are complex and require professional judgment when assigned to a specific area.

  • Demonstrates knowledge of theory behind the test performed.

  • Recognized departure from the norm on adult and geriatric patients and be able to understand the scientific and theoretical reasons for such deviation.

  • Calibrates instruments and assesses the accuracy of the equipment; performs equipment preventive and corrective maintenance.

  • Check and verify all the test results released by the laboratory. This includes accepting or rejecting results due to delta check inconsistencies, requesting redraw for verification, canceling results due to gross hemolysis, clots or QNS.

  • Reviews outgoing reports for technical and clerical errors.

  • Able to communicate with nurses and physicians, and ability to work well with others.

  • Assist the Lead CLS in maintaining adequate supplies and inventory levels.

  • Demonstrates the ability to prioritize work duties.

  • Recognizes the administrative changes in staffing and scheduling and adapt to these changes.

  • Assists in developing and installing quality control standards to ensure accuracy of test results.

  • Assists the Lead CLS in reviewing and solving quality control problems.

  • Initiates, suggests and if necessary, implements technical and administrative changes upon approval of the Laboratory Director.

  • Maintain compliance with CAP, CLIA, CA state, and other regulatory requirements.

  • Perform daily quality control, instrument calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

  • Participate in proficiency testing and laboratory quality improvement initiatives.

  • Maintain accurate records and documentation according to laboratory policies and regulatory standards.

EXPERIENCE / SKILLS REQUIRED
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in medical technology, microbiology, chemistry, biology or related field.

  • 2+ years of clinical laboratory experience.

  • Must meet CLIA requirements for testing personnel for High Complexity Testing.

  • Ability to work independently and have good sound analytical judgment to function effectively under stress in certain situations.

  • Strong interpersonal skills sufficient to work closely with others on a team.

  • Possess the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, effectively interacting with physicians, facilities and laboratory personnel.

  • Possess speed, consistency and accuracy in tasks to meet the laboratory standards.

  • Customer service oriented

  • Self- starter with a high initiative, a good problem and decision-maker.

  • Ability to demonstrate flexibility in work environment, performing a variety of changing tasks.

  • Commitment to tasks. Displaying a high level of cognitive, interpretive or judgment skills.

  • Strong knowledge of clinical laboratory principles, methodologies, and instrumentation.

  • Experience working in core diagnostic CLIA laboratory environment.

  • Experience in quality assurance processes and CLIA documentation.

  • Experience with laboratory information systems (LIS)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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