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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Mindlance

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Seattle, WA

$30 - $40/hr

... procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses Job Responsibilities Performs ... Minimum of 1 year of clinical laboratory experience in highly complex testing for those with BS/BA ...

St. Joseph Medical Center

Laboratory Assistant

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$24.04 - $32.89/hr

... complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive ... Processes specimen into the lab, organized for department distribution. Job Requirements Required

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Complex Specimen Processor information

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How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Seattle, WA is $20.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $20.77 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 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 jobs in the US pay $300,000 a year?

Complex specimen processors typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or highly experienced specialists in fields like healthcare, law, or finance. Most laboratory or processing roles have lower salary ranges, but advanced positions with additional certifications or management responsibilities can reach higher six-figure incomes.

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 is the highest paying laboratory job?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Medical Laboratory Managers tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certification, and they oversee laboratory operations and compliance, leading to higher compensation compared to other laboratory roles like Complex Specimen Processors.

What is a complex specimen processor?

A complex specimen processor is a laboratory professional responsible for preparing and processing challenging or unusual biological samples for testing. This role often requires knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with specialized equipment and safety protocols.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Complex Specimen Processor typically earns less than $10,000 per month, as this role usually offers moderate wages. High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 monthly without a degree often include specialized trades like commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, which require experience, certifications, or licenses rather than a traditional degree.
What are popular job titles related to Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Seattle, WA? For Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:
Complex Specimen Processor jobs near you
Clinical Laboratory Technician 2, Renton Central Lab: Microbiology (Night Shift Fixed Duration Appt)

Clinical Laboratory Technician 2, Renton Central Lab: Microbiology (Night Shift Fixed Duration Appt)

Uw

Renton, WA • On-site

$27.98/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

University Of Washington rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Description

Who we're looking for:

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Renton, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a fixed duration Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT) 2 with the night shift Microbiology Team at the Renton Central Lab.

As a CLT 2, you will perform various routine and complex specialized laboratory processes, prepare and process specimens, and support the overall operation of the clinical laboratory. You will maintain quality control, train others in laboratory procedures, and contribute to process improvement. You may also be assigned special projects that support the development of new processes and workflows. Additionally, you will have responsibilities in the complex BSL3 lab and will participate in Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB) specimen intake, processing, and preparation. This will include performing concentration, decontamination, acid-fast staining, and additional smears according to AFB results.

Work schedule:

  • 100% FTE
  • Fixed duration appointment
  • Monday - Friday with rotating weekends
  • Night shift
  • This position is recruiting for multiple openings

What you'll contribute:

Laboratory Testing & Specimen Processing

  • Accurately process patient, proficiency, and environmental specimens, including specimen identification, order verification, quality assessment, preparation/concentration, media inoculation, incubation, and storage.
  • Perform patient and proficiency tests in accordance with SOPs and established policies, including all complex components of Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB) handling.
  • Utilize laboratory information systems (LIS) to accession, verify, report, or reject orders; enter results accurately and timely.
  • Conduct and document routine quality control and preventive maintenance procedures.
  • Recognize and troubleshoot problems with patient testing, QC, and equipment; escalate issues appropriately when unresolved.
  • Perform the work of a Clinical Laboratory Technician 1 (CLT1).

Training & Process Improvement

  • Assist in the sign-off instruction and training of staff, fellows, residents, students, and other laboratory personnel.
  • Provide timely evaluation feedback on trainees' performance.
  • Participate in the development, improvement, and implementation of new laboratory processes and procedures to improve accuracy, efficiency, and safety.

AFB/BSL3

  • Safely receive, log, and prepare AFB specimens, including concentration, decontamination, and inoculation of culture media.
  • Follow and perform processes to prevent and avoid contamination.
  • Perform acid-fast staining utilizing complex techniques to avoid cross-contamination, that may include even tap water.
  • Follow SOP and algorithm for additional smears as required per AFB results.
  • Maintain strict adherence to BSL3 biosafety and biosecurity protocols, including PPE usage, entry/exit procedures, and contamination prevention.

Specialized Duties

  • Provide review, audit, troubleshooting, and resolution daily and/or monthly for WASP system maintenance and logs; point person for Field Service Engineer (FSE), inventory supplies, trainer for new employee on WASP supportive details in operations, if needed escalate.
  • Review, resolve, and troubleshoot monthly specimen rejection report, if needed escalate.
  • Operate and troubleshoot specialized laboratory equipment essential for diagnostic testing and safety (centrifuges, heat blocks, autoclaves, BD BACTEC 960, BD FX40, Cepheid GeneXpert).
  • Help with inventory of supplies, ordering, and any other duties assigned by the CLT Lead.
  • Checking supplies and expiration dates.
  • Participate in projects involving new and current procedure and processes updates and reviews.
  • Review the daily check-off lists.
  • Escalate any issues to the MLS Lead and manager, if needed
  • Point of contact for escalated issues handling test and specimen requirements for any send-outs for internal and external clients.

What you'll need:

High school graduation or equivalent AND two (2) years of chemical, clinical, or public health laboratory experience.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

What we offer:

  • Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
  • State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
  • Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
  • Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
  • Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
  • And much more!

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:

A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.

Please visit our website to learn more about our department.

About UW Medicine:

UW Medicine is Washington's only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine's mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow's physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.

Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$27.98 hourly

Pay Range Maximum:

$40.05 hourly

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-temporary-per-diem-and-less-than-half-time/

Shift:

Permanent Night Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a temporary position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives - on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.

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