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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Albany, NY

Allied Digestive Health

Medical Assistant

Albany, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The Medical Assistant is responsible for maintaining a clean and sterile environment by properly sterilizing medical instruments and managing specimen processing. Additionally, this role requires ...

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All JobsLab Specimen Processor JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Albany, NY

Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Albany, NY salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do lab assistant specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Albany, NY is $20.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lab specimen processor do?

A lab specimen processor prepares and handles biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for testing. They label, sort, and organize specimens, ensure proper storage, and may operate laboratory equipment, following safety and quality protocols to support accurate diagnostic results.

What are some common challenges Lab Assistant Specimen Processors face, and how can they be managed?

Lab Assistant Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as handling a high volume of specimens during peak hours while maintaining accuracy and adhering to strict protocols. Managing time efficiently, staying organized, and double-checking labels can help minimize errors. Effective communication with laboratory technologists and phlebotomists is also essential for resolving discrepancies quickly. Adapting to new laboratory information systems and staying updated on safety procedures can further support success in this role.

How to become a lab specimen processor?

To become a lab specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have attention to detail and good organizational skills. Some positions require on-the-job training, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or specimen handling procedures is beneficial. Certification is not usually mandatory but can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant Specimen Processor vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Assistant Specimen ProcessorLab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training providedAssociate degree or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentProcessing specimens in clinical or hospital labsPerforming tests and analyzing samples in laboratory settings
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsMedical laboratories, research facilities, hospitals

The Lab Assistant Specimen Processor primarily handles specimen preparation and processing, focusing on sample labeling and organization. In contrast, Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in laboratory workflows, but Lab Technicians typically require more advanced education and skills.

What are Lab Assistant Specimen Processors?

Lab Assistant Specimen Processors are healthcare professionals responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological specimens—such as blood, urine, or tissue—for laboratory testing. They play a vital role in ensuring that samples are properly handled and documented to maintain accuracy and prevent contamination. Their duties often include data entry, operating laboratory equipment, and adhering to strict safety and confidentiality protocols. This role is essential for supporting laboratory scientists and ensuring timely and accurate diagnostic testing.

Can I be a lab assistant with no experience?

Lab assistant specimen processor roles often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment can be helpful, but many employers hire entry-level candidates and train them for specific tasks.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab assistant specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with laboratory equipment; some positions may require certification or training in laboratory safety and handling specimens.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Assistant Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Assistant Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring phlebotomy certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and safe specimen handling protocols is usually required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you excel in managing high-volume tasks and ensuring accurate sample processing. These competencies are crucial to maintain specimen integrity, minimize errors, and support efficient laboratory operations.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Albany, NY? For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Albany, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Albany, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Albany, NY are:
What cities near Albany, NY are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Albany, NY with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Albany, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,813 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor I

Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor I

Ellis Medicine

Schenectady, NY • On-site

$17.46 - $25.32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Ellis Medicine rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

WHAT DO WE OFFER AT ELLIS MEDICINE?
  • Comprehensive and affordable Health, Dental and Vision insurance that starts DAY ONE!
  • Generous paid time off to support a work-life balance, including 6 paid holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
  • Retirement plan in the form of a 401(3b) with company match after longevity
  • Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Account-allowing you to set aside pretax dollars to better care for your health and the health of your loved ones
  • Free yearlong unlimited CDTA Navigator Pass, including Free CDTA bike share program
  • Employee Wellness Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employer paid for Life Insurance

Under the direction and supervision of the Phlebotomy Supervisor, the Phlebotomist performs blood specimen collection, both venous and capillary procedures on inpatients, and shall be responsible for identifying, processing and distributing all laboratory specimens according to laboratory standards. Performs specimen/ patient registration, processing and prepares all specimens for transport. Adheres to all relevant health and safety standards while ensuring optimal quality and quantity of specimen samples collected.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT(S):
  • High School graduate or equivalent
  • Able to perform assigned duties in a timely manner with minimal supervision
  • Must be compliant with all educational and organizational policies and procedures
  • Must have flexibility to work in all areas of the lab as needed.
  • Demonstrates excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication

Skills and Abilities:
  • Independent, mature, self-motivated, reliable and responsible.
  • Able to serve the needs of patients ages neonatal to geriatric
  • Able to deal with all types of customers/patients in a pleasant, professional manner
  • Able to handle numerous tasks simultaneously
  • Must have excellent organizational skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Should be able to push/pull, lift/move 35 lb, be able to perform moderately difficult manual manipulations such as using a keyboard, writing, and filing for extended periods of time, must be able to perform tasks which require hand-eye coordination such as data entry, typing and using photo copiers. Mobility requirements include the ability to comprehend the spoken English language in addition to being able to communicate and read the English language.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION:
Safety
  • Perform verification of inpatient and outpatient laboratory specimens by using Proper Patient ID
  • Adheres to infection control, safety, fire and disaster policies and procedures
  • Reports all bruising or injuries inflicted during phlebotomy procedures to Nursing
  • Adheres to all PPE procedures
  • Routinely performs supply checks and rotates inventory to avoid using expired product.
  • Adheres to infection control, safety, fire and disaster policies and procedures
  • Follows all policies for operating company's leased vehicles
  • Adheres to hand hygiene policies

Operations
  • Deliver logged-in specimens to various sections of the Laboratory.
  • Signs for all specimens that are delivered to the laboratory follow specific protocol for each specimen type.
  • Works directly with various departments and Medical Technologists for requested add-on testing
  • Perform specimen preparation to include centrifuging, decanting, and labeling
  • Monitors Phlebotomy Task List for Stat and Timed lab draws
  • Perform specimen preparation/processing to include batching specimens, centrifuging, splitting, and freezing specimens required by test order.
  • Performs efficiently in the Ellis Laboratory campus Triage and Fast Track Stations
  • Provide phlebotomy coverage to the Emergency Department and Emergent Care (ICU - Critical Care)
  • Perform verification of inpatient laboratory specimens
  • Process LaboratoryReference Miscellaneous testing specimens
  • The Phlebotomist will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Work Station on Wheels.
  • The Phlebotomist will stay current with department communications and assist with the distribution of technical information.
  • Adheres to the policies and procedures as outlined in the Exposure Control Manual regarding
  • The Phlebotomist will routinely perform inventory checks and rotate department supplies and stock.

Patient Care
  • Provides care for his/her job duties and responsibilities
  • Performs AIDET(Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation and Thank You) with every patient encounter
  • Listen and respect the needs of the patient during their blood draw
  • Adheres to all Phlebotomy/Venipuncture policies and procedures
  • The Phlebotomist will read, understand, and comply with departmental policies, protocols, and procedures (i.e, Procedure Manuals, Safety Manual, Compliance Manual, Automobile Policies, Quality Assurance Manual and SDS Manual).
  • The Phlebotomist will perform verification of patient demographic information, including patient signature post - venipuncture, to verify vacutainers were labeled in their presence and that the name on the label is correct.
  • The Phlebotomist will be responsible for completing all data entry requirements accurately.
  • The Phlebotomist will provide phlebotomy coverage to the Emergency Department and Emergent Care (ICU - Critical Care) as well as other areas of the Organization as needed.
  1. Standard Precautions
  2. Bloodborne Pathogens
  3. Disposal of needles, syringes, and sharps
  • Cleanup procedures for blood and bodily fluid spills, storage, handling, and disposal of medical waste

Clerical
  • Responsible for answering calls from a high-volume multi-line phone system
  • Performs short registration using Hospital Information Systems (HIS)
  • Responsible for completing all data entry requirements accurately - patient registration, entry of test orders from requisition or pulling orders from the database, and managing standing orders.
  • Performs laboratory specimen processing as needed utilizing Soarian Financials and Cerner LIS by registering the patient's specimen, placing an order, labeling the specimen and delivering it to the appropriate department.

Customer Service
  • Provides customer service to all patients, hospital employees and clients/providers
  • Monitor the laboratory "call back" list, reporting all STAT results to clients.
  • Assists clients with all issues or concerns to improve the service of the laboratory.
  • Works directly with Distribution to complete supply orders for clients
  • Manages all requests for specimen pick-up by coordinating with courier services.
  • Respects patient privacy, maintains confidentiality and displays non-judgmental behavior.
  • Maintains open lines of communication professionally and respectfully
  • Answers phones with proper phone etiquette and communicate effectively with providers, families, and colleagues

Ownership
  • Phlebotomist must accept constructive feedback from co-workers and supervisors and respond by working to improve behaviors or performance if appropriate.
  • Supports and accepts hospital polices, decisions and changes
  • Reads all department and organizational communication in a timely manner
  • Completes all mandatory hospital and department-based competencies within the required time frame
  • The Phlebotomist will be flexible and available based on staffing needs, which includes weekends and holidays.
  • Must demonstrate superior customer focus, ability to communicate openly and transparently with peers, patients, and supervisors.

Ellis Medicine is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex/gender, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, military or veteran status, prior arrest, or conviction record, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity, gender expression, reproductive health decisions, or domestic violence victim status.
Salary Range: $17.46-$25.32/hour Pay is based on experience, skills, and education. Exempt positions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will be paid within the base salary equivalent of the stated hourly rates. The pay range may also vary within the stated range based on location.

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