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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

San Francisco, CA

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

The technician also supports clinical research activities including specimen collection, processing ... The job involves direct participant contact with diverse, high-risk individuals with complex needs ...

Lab Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

The technician also supports clinical research activities including specimen collection, processing ... The job involves direct participant contact with diverse, high-risk individuals with complex needs ...

SBC CLIN LAB SCI-TECH

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

Perform specimen processing, * Check work of unlicensed lab technicians. * Prepare laboratory ... Use complex laboratory information system to record quality control and environmental test results.

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Complex Specimen Processor information

See San Jose, CA salary details

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How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in San Jose, CA is $21.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $21.39 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 San Jose, CA?

For Complex Specimen Processor jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in San Jose, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in San Jose, CA are:

What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Complex Specimen Processor job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,921 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Lab Technician

GLIDE

San Francisco, CA

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

About Glide
GLIDE is a nationally recognized center for social justice, dedicated to fighting systemic injustices, creating pathways out of poverty and crisis, and transforming lives. Through its integrated comprehensive services, advocacy initiatives, and inclusive community, GLIDE empowers individuals, families, and children to achieve stability and to thrive. GLIDE is on the forefront of addressing some of society's most pressing issues, including poverty, housing and homelessness, and racial and social justice. GLIDE's mission is to create a radically inclusive, just, and loving community mobilized to alleviate suffering and break the cycles of poverty and marginalization

Position Summary:
The Lab Technician executes all Health Empowerment & Access Team (HEAT) testing, phlebotomy, and laboratory services for HIV, HCV, and STIs for participants referred to GLIDE's low-barrier prevention programs. This position performs high-volume phlebotomy, CLIA-waived and moderate complexity testing, quality assurance on lab tests, and specimen processing and transport to off-site laboratories.The role serves as an HIV/HCV/STI test counselor, providing one-on-one risk reduction counseling, sexual health education, and referrals to healthcare and social support services. The technician also supports clinical research activities including specimen collection, processing, documentation, and delivery in compliance with Good Clinical Practices (GCP) and regulatory protocols. This position requires an understanding of how trauma and social determinants of health impact participant engagement. The job involves direct participant contact with diverse, high-risk individuals with complex needs, as well as substantial community outreach including street and neighborhood settings. Regular and predictable on-site attendance is required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform high-volume phlebotomy (venipuncture) for STI testing, RNA confirmatory testing, and research specimens.
  • Perform CLIA-waived and moderate complexity testing including rapid HIV, HCV, and syphilis tests.
  • Process specimens and prepare samples for transport to off-site laboratories in accordance with all safety requirements and sample integrity standards.
  • Provide HIV, HCV, and STI risk reduction counseling, risk assessment, and disclosure sessions to individuals seeking confidential testing.
  • Build rapport, provide supportive counseling, and discuss/address barriers preventing linkages to primary medical care and HIV/HCV-specific care.
  • Complete accurate client records in CTL and electronic case management systems.
  • Conduct HIV/HCV treatment readiness assessment with eligible clients and provide treatment education and supportive counseling to at-risk individuals who have not tested for HIV/HCV or to HIV/HCV-positive individuals that are out of care.
  • Perform blood draw collections regularly for STI testing and RNA confirmatory testing with all clients testing reactive for HIV or Hep C in community-based settings.
  • Maintain regulatory compliance through proper documentation and implementation of research specimen testing, collection, processing, and shipping.
  • Organize and store samples in accordance with all safety and other requirements of personnel and integrity of samples.
  • Maintain daily records, temperature logs, and equipment logs.
  • Maintain quality controls and perform quality assurance on all testing supplies and equipment.
  • Educate, empower, and support clients to make informed decisions regarding their utilization of relevant services to achieve their safety, health and wellness goals.
  • Provide in-house and external referrals to clients as needed.
  • Conduct street and community outreach in settings where clients gather and/or live to provide testing services.
  • Assist with mobile testing, SRO-based testing, health fairs, and special events (e.g., Dore Alley, Folsom Street Fair).
  • Ensure all tests are properly performed and documented per clinic guidelines for point-of-care testing.
  • Document and maintain client records for services provided in accordance with all state and federal privacy laws.
  • Fulfill monthly documentation of testing services, activity reports, and other data in relevant databases.
  • Participate in internal staff meetings, in-service training, and other coordination meetings as it pertains to service delivery and operations.
  • Adhere to professional boundaries and standards. Understand and follow basic ethics, values and principles of clinical regulatory practices.
  • Adhere to all laws and requirements regarding HIPAA, confidentiality, child/adult protective services, contractual agreements, etc.
  • Assist Testing Manager in promoting testing services, linkages to care, and prevention education.
  • Assist with other HEAT Programs activities, including syringe access services (SAS) and other provision of safer use supplies, street outreach, and community-based pop-up events.
Qualifications
  • 1-2 years of equivalent work experience providing HIV/HCV/STI prevention education, phlebotomy, and/or testing to similar populations, OR equivalent combination of education and direct service experience.
  • Current California State Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT-1) certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
  • CA Rapid HIV/HCV Test Counselor certification strongly preferred or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within 3 months of hire.
  • Demonstrates understanding of Harm Reduction as a public health model for social justice.
  • Familiarity with social determinants of health (SDOH) and how they impact people experiencing homelessness and other marginalized populations.
  • Experience with venue-based testing and street-based settings (mobile testing, SROs, health fairs).
  • Experience working with people who use drugs (PWUD) and people living with HIV/HCV.
  • Knowledge of motivational interviewing techniques, counseling principles, and health education.
  • Comfortable working in an environment with potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens (with appropriate PPE).
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and exercise sound judgment.
  • Excellent attention to detail, flexibility, and adaptability.
  • Demonstrates cultural humility and ability to work effectively across cultures.
  • Valid California Driver's license in good standing strongly preferred.

Experience and skills that are a plus: 

  • Experience with CLIA-waived and moderate complexity testing in an outpatient setting.
  • Experience facilitating mobile testing, SROs, health fairs, and health access special events.
  • Bachelor's degree in public health, clinical laboratory science, or related field.
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish, Cantonese, Russian, or ASL.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
  • CA Rapid HIV/HCV Test Counselor certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
  • Licensed Phlebotomist or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work on a computer and see details of objects at close range. 
  • Ability to hear within normal range, and communicate effectively (in person, telephone or Zoom). 
  • Finger dexterity and the ability to use all standard office equipment.
  • Sit or stand comfortably; and the ability to navigate throughout office spaces (via elevator or stairs).
$31 - $33 an hour
This is a full-time (40 hour/week), Non-Exempt position.
Work Environment
GLIDE's buildings are located in the Tenderloin neighborhood.GLIDE maintains an "open door" policy to the community and its clients, who frequently enter and leave the building.

This role is covered by the collective bargaining agreement.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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