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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Elgin, IL

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.50 - $21.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Rush

Medical Lab Assistant

Chicago, IL

$17.63 - $24.91/hr

Recognizes and resolves any specimen and equipment problems. • Utilizes required Personal ... Labels and processes specimens properly. Performs all laboratory procedures efficiently and ...

Prime Healthcare

Lab Assistant - Clinical Lab

Aurora, IL · On-site

$18 - $26.07/hr

... specimen or reagent, or perform any mathematical calculation in determining a test result or ... processes specimens for reference laboratory, 8) stocks and orders routine supplies, 9) keeps ...

North Central College

MECH Lab Assistant

Naperville, IL · On-site

Yes Posting Number ST000958 Position Title MECH Lab Assistant Department COMPUTER SCIENCE Division ... If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please ...

North Central College

MECH Lab Assistant

Naperville, IL · On-site

Yes Posting Number ST000958 Position Title MECH Lab Assistant Department COMPUTER SCIENCE Division ... If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please ...

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All JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Elgin, IL

Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

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

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Elgin, IL is $20.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $22.79 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, operate laboratory equipment, and ensure proper storage and documentation 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.

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 to become a specimen processor for a lab?

To become a lab 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, and certifications in phlebotomy or laboratory safety can be advantageous. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with laboratory information systems is often helpful.

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.

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 training on specific tools or certifications in safety or handling biological specimens.

How much does a specimen processor make?

The average salary for a specimen processor in California ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the healthcare facility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced processors with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also impact total compensation.

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 Elgin, IL? For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs near you
Clinical Lab Assistant II-Part-time Nights

Clinical Lab Assistant II-Part-time Nights

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Geneva, IL

Other

Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Northwestern Medicine rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 383 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 874 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Company Description
At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?
Job Description
This is a part-time, 20 hours per week, 3rd shift position located at Delnor Hospital in Geneva.
Must be able to work 8:30pm - 5am including every other weekend.
The CLA II reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with the main lab staff, other ancillary departments, departments, nurses and providers to ensure excellent patient care.
  • Receives specimens into the laboratory information system.
  • Inputs and retrieves lab results in laboratory or hospital computer system.
  • Register specimen dropoffs (e.g. Home health) in LIS assuring accurate data entry.
  • Properly processes specimens for transport to reference laboratories.
  • Distributes specimens to the appropriate testing area.
  • Identifies and solves problems utilizing appropriate resources with the assistance of a supervisor, manager, pathologist and/or coworkers when appropriate.
  • Verifies the accuracy of all instruments and test kits; responsible for quality control, maintenance, troubleshoots
  • Operate and maintain laboratory automation systems as appropriate.
  • Performs diagnostic/analytic testing of specimens, interprets, documents and report results to provider.
  • Accurately performs waived and/or moderate complexity testing under the direction of CLS
  • Ensures appropriate testing is ordered and properly identifies the correct reference laboratory for referred specimens
  • Communicates specimen rejections, critical/notifiable results to appropriate clinical personnel and completes required documentation.
  • May review/record refrigerator temperature(s) and QC/QA records. Areas of concern are recorded through the Corrective Action Log and reported to maintenance for repair.
  • Adheres to lab procedures with following up on outstanding orders including time-sensitive draws/charges
  • Answers phone calls to the laboratory and triages appropriate
  • Coordinates courier pickups as needed.
Department Specific duties
  • Performs phlebotomy and other lab specimen collections per age related standards as required.
  • Completes biological transport training as required and maintain competency.
  • Recognizes temperature dependent transport conditions and select correct packing list destination.
  • Monitors and maintains specialty supplies, including kits, swab and collection containers and disperse to units
  • Ensures supplies are available and stored at the appropriate temperatures
  • Performs microbiology setups or other testing preparation duties.
  • May assist with bone marrow and other biopsy processing.
  • Pull AP slides for second opinion requests and log material back into Epic when material is returned.
Qualifications
Required:
  • High School Diploma
  • Minimum of 1 year of work experience in a general lab, specimen processing or phlebotomy area or enrolled in lab related education program.
Preferred:
  • Phlebotomy Certification or training from an accredited School or Institution

Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.

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