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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in District Heights, MD

Patient First

Lab Assistant

Landover Hills, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen collection, handling, and processing, as well as ... Electronically ordering lab, x-ray, and medical supplies as directed; * Notifying the Nurse and/or ...

PatientFirst

Lab Assistant

Landover Hills, MD · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen collection, handling, and processing, as well as ... Electronically ordering lab, x-ray, and medical supplies as directed; * Notifying the Nurse and/or ...

Akahi Associates, LLC

Lab Assistant

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$22.59/hr

... and processes specimens for testing. Performs testing in the Microbiology, Chemistry, Serology, Hematology, Coagulation, Urinalysis, and Immunohematology sections including specimen receipt ...

Akahi Associates, LLC

Lab Assistant

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$22.59/hr

... and processes specimens for testing. Performs testing in the Microbiology, Chemistry, Serology, Hematology, Coagulation, Urinalysis, and Immunohematology sections including specimen receipt ...

Inova

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18.44 - $30.06/hr

Lab Technician Assistant 2 PSC Job Responsibilities: * Accurately manages specimen preparation steps, storage, and packaging for transport of specimens according to Lab protocols preserving specimen ...

Inova

Laboratory Technician Assistant

Fairfax, VA

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 ensures accurate specimen processing to maintain specimen integrity and verifies product and/or test components when processing.

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See District Heights, MD salary details

$11

$21

$31

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in District Heights, MD is $21.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in District Heights, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in District Heights, MD are:
What cities near District Heights, MD are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near District Heights, MD 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 District Heights, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,008 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Patient First

Landover Hills, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Patient First rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Providing quality and rapid lab results involving knowledge of laboratory analyses, proper procedures, work equipment, and safety procedures;
  • Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen collection, handling, and processing, as well as for test analyses, reporting, and record maintenance of test results;
  • Adhering to the laboratory's quality control policies and documenting all quality control activities and maintenance under the supervision of the Lab Technician on duty;
  • Electronically ordering lab, x-ray, and medical supplies as directed;
  • Notifying the Nurse and/or Physician when patient is ready for exam while communicating symptoms and relaying questions about lab or x-ray needs;
  • Adhering to the established corrective action policies and procedures of the laboratory whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance and documenting those actions;
  • Identifying and troubleshooting problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results either by correcting the problem or notifying the Lab Technician on duty, Lab Supervisor, or Lab Consultant;
  • Receiving and distributing lab supplies as needed;
  • Adhering to safety policies as defined by Patient First and OSHA;
  • Assisting Nurses and Physicians with various forms of patient treatment and care;
  • Handling Physician and Nurse requests with respect and in a timely manner;
  • Fostering teamwork and ensuring a positive and professional atmosphere;
  • Providing positive, warm, and friendly service in all interactions;
  • Understanding and performing all duties as assigned.

Minimum education and professional requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Employee must be 18 years of age or older;
  • High school graduate or equivalent. Must have knowledge of laboratory principles, concepts, and methodologies sufficient to perform waived testing;
  • Ability to produce rapid, reliable, quality laboratory results during periods of high volume (100 or more patients per day);
  • Ability to multitask, prioritize work, and take initiative based on varying volume and dynamic situations;
  • Knowledge and skill sufficient to use and maintain laboratory instrumentation;
  • Proficiency in performing venipuncture, finger stick collections, and drug screens;
  • Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for long periods of time (possibly 4-7 hours at a time);
  • Must be able to lift moderately heavy to heavy items (20 to 50 pounds);
  • Willingness to work at any center due to a staffing or center emergency or reduction of work.
Salary Range: $22.00 - $25.00, depending on experience.

Benefits and Other Compensation:

Health, Dental and Vision insurance for employees and dependents

Disability, Life and Long Term care insurance

Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending accounts, 401(k) Retirement Plan (with employer match)

Paid Annual Leave, Volunteer Time Off Pay, Bereavement Leave, Emergency Leave Bank

Overtime Pay, Holiday Pay, Double time compensation for all holidays worked

Discounted medical treatment at any Patient First location for employees and immediate family

Bonuses include:

- Recruitment bonus

- Patient Care Performance bonus (center employees only)

- Weekend bonus (center employees only)

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