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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Clayton, NC

Laboratory MedTech Lead

Durham, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Summary The Lab Medical Tech is responsible for Performs and coordinating a range of complex ... specimen quality, interpret complex test results, and provide consultative support. • Assist ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Clayton, NC salary details

$8

$17

$25

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Clayton, NC is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab assistant specimen processor?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a lab assistant specimen processor?

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 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.

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.

How do you become a lab assistant specimen processor?

To become a lab assistant specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may receive on-the-job training. Some positions require basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or specimen handling protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Clayton, NC?

For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Clayton, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Clayton, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Clayton, NC are:

What cities near Clayton, NC are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Clayton, NC with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Clayton, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,819 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Medical Lab Scientist, Advanced - Blood Gas Lab - First Shift

Duke Health

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Duke Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 255 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.

Duke University Health System Clinical Laboratories

Pursue your passion for caring and innovation as a team member in the state-of-the-art Duke Health laboratories. Duke Health laboratories are College of American Pathologists accredited and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments certified. The multidisciplinary team is committed to serving the rare and complex testing needs of Duke Health patients by providing timely and accurate results, educating the next generation of laboratorians, scientists and physicians, and researching and developing the cutting-edge diagnostics of tomorrow.


Medical Lab Scientist, Advanced in the Blood Gas Lab at Duke University Hospital. Monday - Friday, First Shift.

This position is eligible for a $7,500 commitment bonus, for a 1-year commitment.

General Description

Perform a variety of routine and complex technical tasks in the performance of laboratory tests to obtain data for use in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Job duties are dependent on the laboratory and may be composed of a combination of the following duties and responsibilities related to the specialization.

Work Performed

  • Perform a variety of tests in clinical laboratories using standard techniques and equipment; perform related duties in the laboratory to include specimen handling, using manual and automatic equipment to test specimens, and performing and reporting analytical tests.
  • Operate manual or computerized instrumentation.
  • Calibrate andmaintaininstrumentation according to standard operating procedures.
  • Process patient samples for testing using appropriate identification techniques and written procedures to ensure quality material for testing.
  • Perform basic troubleshooting of assay problems as directed by senior staff.
  • Communicate problems/issues toappropriate individuals.
  • Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment.
  • Participate in the development of new medical laboratory tests and techniques.
  • Participate in the preparation for lab inspections.
  • Review lab inspection documents and procedures tomaintainknowledge.
  • Bring any non-compliance issues to the attention of upper-level staff.
  • Performproficiencytesting as directed tomaintaincompliance with regulatory agencies.
  • Document quality control and quality assurance results.
  • Notify upper-level personnel of instrument malfunctions or unusual or unexpected data or results.
  • Review written procedures and policies for accuracy andsubmitchanges to manager or designee.
  • Understand,comply with, and perform all necessary safety procedures.
  • Maintain compliance with safety training.
  • Report all safety incidents within 24 hours.
  • Attend all laboratory meetings, safety training, and compliance training asrequired.
  • Comply withcompetency testing procedures for laboratory staff.
  • Trainnew staff.
  • Serve as a resource person/role model, as per guidelinesdeterminedby laboratory management.
  • Comply withlaboratory training programs.
  • Provide technical guidance and instruction to students, interns, residents, staff, and other employees.
  • Perform other related duties incidental to the work describedherein.
  • Use behaviors that support achievement of balanced scorecard targets and support DUHS values.
  • Consistently cooperate and communicate effectively with co-workers to ensure effective workflow.

Knowledge,Skillsand Abilities

Minimum Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Chemical, Physical, Biological, or Clinical LaboratoryScience;or Medical Technology.
  • Generalist certificationrequiredfor general laboratories. Generalist or specialty certificationrequiredfor specialty laboratories.
  • Minimum educational or experience requirements may bemodifiedon a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the CLIA Director, provided minimal CLIA requirements are met by the employee for the tasks being performed.

Experience

Two years of experience as a certified MLS.

Degrees, Licensures, Certifications

Generalist or specialty certification by a nationally recognized board or agency (required). Certification will vary depending onlaboratory. Master of Science in lieu of certification for the Biochemical Genetics Laboratory.


Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.


Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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