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Internship Specimen Processor Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Internship Specimen Processor information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do internship specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship specimen processor in Phoenix, AZ is $17.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Internship Specimen Processors?

Internship Specimen Processors are entry-level laboratory professionals who handle and prepare medical or biological specimens for testing and analysis. As interns, they learn to receive, label, and process samples such as blood, urine, or tissue, ensuring they are suitable for laboratory tests. Their responsibilities often include maintaining accurate records, operating laboratory equipment, and following strict safety and quality protocols. Internship Specimen Processors gain hands-on experience in a clinical or research lab setting, which can be valuable for pursuing a career in laboratory sciences.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab assistant, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques or related fields. Attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to work in a team are also important qualifications.

What does a specimen processor do?

A specimen processor prepares biological samples, such as blood, tissue, or fluids, for laboratory testing by labeling, sorting, and ensuring proper storage. They often operate lab equipment, follow safety protocols, and work under supervision to ensure accurate and efficient processing of specimens. Attention to detail and knowledge of lab procedures are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Internship Specimen Processors and how can they be managed?

Internship Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as handling high specimen volumes, maintaining accuracy under time constraints, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Staying organized, double-checking labels, and following standard operating procedures can help manage these pressures. Team collaboration and clear communication with laboratory staff are also essential for ensuring specimens are processed efficiently and errors are minimized. Proactively seeking feedback and training opportunities can further support personal development and adaptability in this fast-paced environment.

How can I become a specimen processor?

To become a specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to handle biological samples safely. Some positions may require training on laboratory procedures and the use of processing equipment, which is often provided on the job. Certification is not usually mandatory but can enhance job prospects in some laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and sample handling protocols is often required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you efficiently process and track specimens within a team environment. These abilities are essential to ensure the accuracy, safety, and timely handling of biological samples in a clinical or research laboratory.

What does a laboratory intern do?

A laboratory intern in a specimen processing role assists with preparing, labeling, and handling biological samples under supervision. They may operate lab equipment, follow safety protocols, and document procedures to support diagnostic or research activities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processor jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
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$47K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The employee will serve as the Lead Medical Technician assigned to the Specimen Procurement & Processing Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service (P&LMS). The lead technician works with the Phlebotomy Supervisor and other team members to ensure task completion and provides service to meet program and production goals. The purpose is to assist team in producing timely phlebotomy service to veterans with emphasis on maintaining a satisfactory level of customer service excellence.
Qualifications:English Language Proficiency - In accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), No person shall serve in direct patient care positions unless they are proficient in basic written and spoken English. You must be proficient in basic written and spoken English in order to meet the requirements of this position.
AND
This position includes a Selective Placement Factor (skill, knowledge, ability or other worker characteristic basic to - and essential for - satisfactory performance of the job). Selective Placement Factors are a prerequisite to appointment and represent minimum requirements for a position. Applicants who do not meet it are ineligible for further consideration.
The Selective Placement Factor for this position is:Experience performing phlebotomy/blood draws on human patients.
AND
EXPERIENCE: You must have at least one (1) full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the Federal service that includes performing the following duties: a) Technical medical laboratory support work such as performing laboratory tests and examinations (chemical, microbiologic, hematologic and blood banking) and preparing reports of findings or (b) technical support work in a closely related field, e.g., biological laboratory technician work, that required application of the methods and techniques for the position to be filled.
OR
SUBSTITUTE EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: MUST have successfully completed at least six (6) months of Graduate education or an internship to may be used to meet the specialized experience required. Education is creditable only in those instances where it is directly related to the position. (Transcript Required)
OR
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: MUST have equivalent combinations of successfully completed graduate education and specialized experience to meet the total requirements. Education is creditable only in those instances where it is directly related to the position. (Transcript Required)
Preferred Experience: Current/recent phlebotomy experience; Experience in a clinical laboratory; Previous lead phlebotomy experience
For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.Education:
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
NOTE: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER