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Internship Specimen Processor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interns can expect experience with the Virtuo blood culture detection system and gain skills in processing various specimen types using sterile techniques, following safety protocols, and staining ...

... interns, fellows and other medical professionals. Recognizing its excellence in nursing care ... Preferred Qualifications Role Purpose Performs specimen processing and routine / complex testing on ...

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Internship Specimen Processor information

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How much do internship specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship specimen processor in the United States is $18.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 skills are needed for specimen processing?

Internship specimen processors need attention to detail, good manual dexterity, and the ability to follow strict safety and handling protocols. Knowledge of laboratory procedures, proper use of processing tools, and basic understanding of biological samples are essential. Strong organizational skills and the ability to work efficiently in a clinical environment are also important.
More about Internship Specimen Processor jobs
What cities are hiring for Internship Specimen Processor jobs? Cities with the most Internship Specimen Processor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processor jobs? The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Specimen Processor jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Specimen Processor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Internship Specimen Processor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,475 per year, or $18 per hour.
Summer Lab Internship

Summer Lab Internship

Quest Diagnostics

Wood Dale, IL • On-site

$19.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago


ExamOne rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Job Description
Summer Lab Internship - Wood Dale, IL
Schedule is flexible/variable
$19.50/hr
The Summer Lab Internship Program at Quest Diagnostics offers students the opportunity to gain experience in the clinical and toxicology laboratory environments while working at the world's leading provider of diagnostic testing, services, and information that patients and doctors rely on to make better healthcare decisions. Summer Lab Interns work with whole laboratory specimens to perform a wide range of tests ranging from simple to complex, applying a combination of manual lab procedures/ techniques and state-of-the-art instruments. Interns will also have the opportunity to apply their background and skills gained in education to various process improvement projects.
The intern's laboratory experience may include exposure in one or more of the following areas:
Responsibilities
Microbiology - Microbiology will familiarize interns with clinical bacteriology, including culture methods, microscopy, EIA, automated identification and susceptibility systems such as the Vitek II, Vitek Mass Spectrometry Maldi-tof, and Microscan systems. Interns can expect experience with the Virtuo blood culture detection system and gain skills in processing various specimen types using sterile techniques, following safety protocols, and staining smears. Interns will be introduced to the latest in AI technology that enhance screening techniques and diagnostic testing for microbiology samples.
Qualifications
Program Eligibility & Qualifications:
To be eligible to participate in the Summer Lab Internship Program, students must meet the following qualifications by the start date of the program:
Completed Sophomore or Junior year in a four-year baccalaureate program in medical laboratory science, chemistry, human biology, microbiology, molecular biology, molecular genetics or another human biomedical science-related field
A minimum of a 3.0 or better overall from an accredited institution
Completed course work in the following:
Biology
Chemistry
Math
Required documentation to upload when applying:
Resume
Cover Letter, including the reason for applying and what the candidate is expecting to learn from the internship
Transcripts from Registrar's office
A Reference Letter from a college professor may be requested
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.