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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Harlingen, TX

Medical Assistant (MA)

Harlingen, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Performs venipunctures, CLIA-Waived and non-CLIA Waived lab testing. * Maintains a clean, orderly ... Assists in checking out patients and assists them with referral processing and scheduling process ...

Medical Assistant-Edinburg ENT

Edinburg, TX · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

To assist health care providers and clerical staff in the ambulatory patient care areas. Provides ... Processes lab specimens, performs tests, and reports results as written in applicable policies and ...

... process. Collects and collates data for Quality Assurance studies. Coordinates/leads work team. Set ... Oversees work of trained histology personnel, and Lab Assistants. POSITION EDUCATION ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Harlingen, TX salary details

$10

$19

$28

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Harlingen, TX is $19.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $22.45 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 to become a lab assistant specimen processor?

To become a lab assistant specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with specimen handling and processing equipment. Some positions may require on-the-job training or certification in laboratory safety and procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Harlingen, TX?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Harlingen, TX are:

What cities near Harlingen, TX are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Harlingen, TX with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Harlingen, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,963 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Certified Medical Assistant Exam Tutor

Varsity Tutors

Brownsville, TX • Remote

$25 - $40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Varsity Tutors rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 24 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

About the Job
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Certified Medical Assistant Exam tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
  • Earn incrementally higher pay for each session with the same student, reaching up to $40/hour.
  • Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions you conduct and invoice.
  • Set your own hours and tutor as much as you'd like.
  • Tutor remotely using our purpose-built Live Learning Platform. No commuting required.
  • Get matched with students best-suited to your teaching style and expertise.
  • Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson generation, and engagement features, helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching.
  • We handle the logistics—you just invoice for your tutoring sessions, and we take care of payments.

What We Look For In a Certified Medical Assistant Exam Tutor
  • Advanced Test Mastery: Deep knowledge of CMA examination content covering general medical knowledge, anatomy and physiology, clinical procedures, administrative procedures, and medical terminology as defined by the AAMA. Ability to explain patient intake procedures, phlebotomy techniques, medical coding basics, and infection control protocols while preparing medical assistant graduates for national CMA certification.
  • Strategic Test-Taking & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching clinical procedure knowledge, administrative process understanding, and medical terminology application for CMA examination. Guides students through patient vital sign assessment, specimen collection procedures, appointment scheduling protocols, insurance processing steps, and medication administration knowledge. Emphasizes connecting clinical and administrative skills to patient-centered care and office efficiency.
  • Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with CMA examination content outline and common challenges such as breadth of anatomy and physiology content, clinical procedure detail, and administrative process knowledge. Adapts instruction using CMA practice examinations, anatomy review materials, and clinical scenario analysis to support medical assistant graduates preparing for national certification through the AAMA.
  • Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs and styles.
  • Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style.
  • Ability to adapt to different learning styles and student needs.

Ways To Connect With Students
  • 1-on-1 Online Tutoring - Provide personalized instruction to individual students.
  • Instant Tutoring - Accept on-demand tutoring requests whenever you're available.

About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.

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