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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Lancaster, PA

Any Lab Test Now

Medical Assistant

Lititz, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

... lab testing services, as well as phlebotomy and other specimen collection services, through our ... Medical Assistants * Phlebotomists * Outside Sales This is an independently owned and operated ...

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

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$10

$19

$28

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Lancaster, PA is $19.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.40 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 Lancaster, PA?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Lancaster, PA are:

What cities near Lancaster, PA are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Lancaster, PA 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 Lancaster, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,927 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Laboratory Support Technician - UPMC Memorial

UPMC Senior Communities

York, PA • On-site

$20.10 - $30.17/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Purpose of the Laboratory Support Technician:
Works with Technical staff in the Laboratory to support analytic activities with tasks required prior to specimen analysis. Duties and responsibilities may vary by location and by services provided by the hiring department.
Responsibilities:
  • All duties of a Specimen Processor including:- Answers phone inquiries. Investigates specimen status and report disposition. Directs callers to additional resources as needed.- Receives, sorts, prepares and delivers testing-ready specimens for analysis to work areas. - Demonstrates service orientation approach by conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm and a positive attitude in work situations.
  • Additional duties:- Performs routine and basic instrument maintenance according to established protocols. Records temperatures if required.- Assists with restocking supplies to maintain an optimal inventory. Maintains clean and orderly storage spaces for room temperature, refrigerated, and frozen supplies.- Prepares and replenishes instrument reagents and consumables as needed. - Performs QA / QC procedures as assigned.- Assists with specimen/slide storage and retrieval.- Checks pending work lists. Investigates and resolves any unprocessed work. - Decontaminates work area, keeping a neat and clean working environment. - Keeps any glassware clean and dry, including tests for residue removal as needed.- Tests and cleans emergency eyewashes and showers as assigned.- Sorts laboratory waste as needed and ensures that proper disposal occurs.- Transports specimens off-site and delivers supplies where required.
  • Additional duties (Pennsylvania locations only):- Prepares specimens at workstations for testing. Includes building worklists, checking specimens for acceptability (clots, QNS), aliquoting specimens, loading/unloading specimens onto instruments. - Prepares microscopic slides and plants specimens in microbiologic growth media where required.

Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or equivalent, and at least 2 years experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) required in a clinical lab
  • OR Associate degree (with biology and chemistry courses) and at least 1 year of experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) in a clinical lab
  • OR Phlebotomy or Medical Assistant certification and 1 year of experience as a Specimen Processor (or equivalent) in a clinical lab
  • OR Successful completion of a 50-week U.S. military medical laboratory training course
  • OR B.S. degree from an accredited institution with a major in a biological or clinical laboratory science
  • OR
    Currently enrolled in a MLS (Medical Laboratory Scientist) or equivalent training program, with 3 yrs college credits required.
    Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
    Medical Laboratory Assistant MLA (ASCP) or equivalent certification preferred.Valid driver's license if one is departmentally required.
  • Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

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