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Full Time Specimen Processor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Northwestern Medicine

Phlebotomist-Full-time Days

Geneva, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, phlebotomy position located at Delnor Hospital in Geneva ... The Phlebotomist is responsible for venipuncture collection and specimen processing. Other ...

Endeavor Health

Laboratory Assistant I

Evanston, IL · On-site

$18.84 - $27.32/hr

Location: Evanston Hospital * Full Time/Part Time: Full Time * Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm What you will do: * Triage cytology specimen: gross specimen and accession specimen * Process ...

Endeavor Health

Laboratory Assistant I

Evanston, IL

$18.84 - $27.32/hr

Location: Evanston Hospital * Full Time/Part Time: Full Time * Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm What you will do: * Triage cytology specimen: gross specimen and accession specimen * Process ...

NorthShore

Laboratory Assistant I

Evanston, IL · On-site

$18.84 - $27.32/hr

Location: Evanston Hospital * Full Time/Part Time: Full Time * Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm What you will do: * Triage cytology specimen: gross specimen and accession specimen * Process ...

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How much do full time specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time specimen processor in Chicago, IL is $18.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by full time specimen processors, and how can they be managed?

Full Time Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as high sample volumes, strict turnaround times, and the need for meticulous attention to detail. Managing these challenges typically involves strong organizational skills, effective time management, and clear communication with laboratory staff and couriers. Many labs also provide training on safety protocols and workflow optimization to help processors maintain accuracy and efficiency. Building familiarity with laboratory information systems can further streamline daily responsibilities and reduce errors.

How much does a full time specimen processor make?

A full-time specimen processor in California typically earns between $35,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. The role often requires attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory procedures, and may include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

How do you become a full time specimen processor?

To become a full-time specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory procedures. Relevant skills include proper handling of biological samples, knowledge of safety protocols, and sometimes certification in phlebotomy or laboratory techniques. On-the-job training is often provided, and positions usually require a flexible schedule to accommodate laboratory hours.

What is the difference between Full Time Specimen Processor vs Part Time Specimen Processor?

AspectFull Time Specimen ProcessorPart Time Specimen Processor
Work HoursTypically 40 hours/weekLess than 30 hours/week
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training providedHigh school diploma or equivalent; training provided
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, repetitive tasks
Employer UsageCommon in hospitals, labs, diagnostic centers

Full Time Specimen Processors work standard hours and often receive benefits, while Part Time Specimen Processors work fewer hours with flexible schedules. Both roles require similar credentials and work in laboratory environments, serving hospitals and diagnostic labs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time specimen processor?

To thrive as a Full Time Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory protocols, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and specimen handling equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and efficiency in a fast-paced environment. These skills are crucial for maintaining the integrity of samples and supporting timely, accurate diagnostic testing.

What does a full time specimen processor do?

A Full Time Specimen Processor is responsible for receiving, sorting, and preparing biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for laboratory analysis. They ensure that each specimen is properly labeled, documented, and stored according to strict protocols to maintain sample integrity. Specimen Processors often work in hospitals, diagnostic labs, or clinics and play a critical role in supporting accurate and timely lab results. Attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, and strong organizational skills are essential for this position.
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Full Time Specimen Processor jobs near you

Cytogenetics Technologist, Full-Time Days

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Chicago, IL • On-site

$36.79/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Northwestern Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 389 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Company Description
At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?
Job Description
The Cytogenetics Technologist reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
Responsibilities:
  • Performs all aspects of cytogenetic analysis: tissue culture, cell harvesting, slide preparation and banding, microscope scanning, chromosome analysis, FISH (Fluorescent In-Situ Hybridization) analysis, DNA extractions/microarray based analysis and report drafting.
  • Utilizes laboratory instruments independently and performs troubleshooting as needed.
  • Performs all aspects of pre-analytic workflow appropriate for the Cytogenetics Laboratory to ensure orders are entered correctly, specimens collected are appropriate for the test ordered and are correctly processed/transported.
  • Verifies orders where necessary.
  • Verifies non-patient information (e.g., collection time) according to established protocol.
  • Handles unresolved orders, troubleshoots where needed.
  • Verifies with medical director or operations or resource coordinators to resolve unclear, duplicate or otherwise ambiguous orders prior to LIS order entry.
  • Verifies specimens for add-on tests are available and acceptable, verifies with medical director or operations and/or resource coordinators tests are appropriate and generates add-on test orders if approved.
  • Collecting, receiving and processing of specimens
  • Verifies specimens are correctly and completely labeled upon receipt.
  • Evaluates specimens for appropriateness and takes necessary corrective action.
  • Appropriately documents unacceptable specimens.
  • Prioritizes specimen processing based on established priorities.
  • Aliquots specimens according to established protocols.
  • Maintains test system integrity:
    • Performs preventative maintenance on instruments/equipment in a timely fashion according to defined schedule.
    • Verifies reagents and supplies meet defined acceptability criteria upon receipt and prior to use; takes action to ensure unacceptable items are removed from use.
    • Ensures that sufficient reagents and supplies necessary for test performance are available.
    • Notifies senior staff when minimum inventory level is encountered.
    • Performs and records all necessary quality control (QC) required for test system performance.
    • Evaluates QC results and takes necessary corrective actions according to established protocol.
  • Performs specimen preparation:
    • Performs any necessary pretest specimen preparation according to protocols (e.g., tissue culture, cell harvesting, slide preparation, etc).
    • Documents all aspects of sample preparation in required forms.
  • Performs tests:
    • Prioritizes testing based on assignment or established priorities, completes testing within defined turn-around-times.
    • Responds effectively to changes in the workflow by coordinating a simultaneous series of tests when needed or adjusting work to incorporate STAT tests or fluctuations in work volume.
  • Performs technical review and interpretation:
    • Reviews results for completeness, correctness, and consistency within defined test system.
    • Evaluates test results/reactions and provides accurate interpretations as appropriate to include correlation with, and integration of, other patient data as necessary.
    • Performs visual interpretation/identifications as appropriate.
  • Troubleshoots and solves problems:
    • Recognizes test system performance problems and takes necessary corrective actions.
    • Recognizes when unresolved problems need to be escalated and takes necessary follow-up action.
    • Prints pending logs and follows-up to ensure pending tests are completed or cancelled when appropriate.
  • Post-test specimen storage:
    • Stores specimens and related materials (blood, slides, tissues, etc) according to protocols for location and duration.
    • Retrieves specimen and related materials when needed.
  • Conducts validation studies under the direction of coordinator or director.
  • Performs all aspects of the post-analytic workflow appropriate for the Cytogenetics Laboratory to ensure accurate results are reported within established time frames, specimens are retained appropriately, test results and/or current status are available upon inquiry, and billed charges are correct for testing performed.
  • Verifies and reports results:
    • Verifies results according to procedure.
    • Performs computer functions necessary for releasing results.
    • Generates written reports according to established protocol.
    • Reviews printed reports when applicable, recognizes problems and escalates according to protocol.
  • Amends reports:
    • Corrects erroneous reports and amends reports according to procedure.
  • Responds to inquiries:
    • Responds to requests for information according to established protocol for confidentiality and release of information.
    • Recognizes when unresolved inquiries need to be escalated and take action.
  • Stores documents and records according to established protocol.
  • Charge capture/billing:
    • Performs billing and/or enters credits for tests and services when applicable.
    • Recognizes billing problems and escalates accordingly.
  • Ensures quality of operations:
    • Follows written standard operating procedures.
    • Operates instruments/equipment according to protocol.
    • Uses computers according to established protocol; follows downtime procedures as required.
    • Performs required Quality System responsibilities.
    • Meets competency standards of the department.
    • Participates in the training of new employees and students.
    • Performs operational review of new procedures.
    • Attends at least one personal development session per year.
    • Performs other duties as assigned, or as needed, to ensure continued quality of operations.
  • Ensures safety of operations:
    • Follows all required safety procedures, uses personal protective equipment appropriate for tasks performed.
    • Maintains clean and organized work area.
  • Provides service excellence:
    • Answers telephones when needed, using NMH telephone etiquette.
    • Maintains patient confidentiality.
    • Assists patients and other contacts whenever need occurs.

Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemistry, Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology or other science degree qualifying the applicant to perform high complexity testing under 42 CFR Part 493
  • One year of work experience in a cytogenetics laboratory or - CG (ASCP) eligible or - CG (ASCP) certified

Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.

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