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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 ...

PGNA INC

Test Lab Engineer

Lancaster, PA

... plastic processors and plastics manufacturers. Besides the plastics industry, the dedusting ... assist in furthering and improving the technical offerings and capabilities of Pelletron.

CVS Health

Medical Assistant - Float

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $35.29/hr

Process orders for durable medical equipment, in partnership with clinical leadership and support ... Experience with blood draws (phlebotomy) and specimen collection. * Problem-solving skills ...

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All JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Lancaster, PA

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 Jun 14, 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 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 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
Technical Lab Associate - Specimen Processing Area

Technical Lab Associate - Specimen Processing Area

Penn State Health

Hershey, PA • On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Penn State Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 241 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Penn State Health - Hershey Medical Center
Location: US:PA: Hershey
Work Type: Full Time
FTE: 1.00
Shift: Evening
Evening Shift Differential:$2.00/hour
Hours: 3:00p - 11:30p weekdays, rotate weekends and holidays
Recruiter Contact: Brie Kissell at bkissell@pennstatehealth.psu.edu
SUMMARY OF POSITION:
Responsible for receiving laboratory specimens, ensuring specimen identity and acceptability; entering orders for laboratory testing into the Lab Information System; and entering patient demographic and insurance information into the patient registration system. Prepares specimens for analysis. Answers telephone and provides information related to specimen requirements, test availability, specimen testing status; provides laboratory results. Prepares specimens for referral to outside reference laboratories and insures that all storage requirements are met.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S):
  • High School Diploma or equivalent education required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S):
  • Six (6) months job related experience preferred

WHY PENN STATE HEALTH?
Penn State Health offers exceptional opportunities to learn and grow, exposure to a wide patient population, and the ability to provide individualized, innovative, and specialized care to patients in the community.
Penn State Health offers an exceptional benefits package including medical, dental and vision with no waiting period as well as a Total Rewards Program that highlights a few of the many additional offerings below:
  • Be Well with Employee Wellness Programs, and Fitness Discounts (University Fitness Center, Peloton).
  • Be Balanced with Generous Paid Time Off, Personal Time, and Paid Parental Leave.
  • Be Secured with Retirement, Extended Illness Bank, Life Insurance, and Identity Theft Protection.
  • Be Rewarded with Competitive Pay, Tuition Reimbursement, and PAWS UP employee recognition program.
  • Be Supported by the HR Solution Center, Learning and Organizational Development and Virtual Benefits Orientation, Employee Exclusive Concierge Service for scheduling.

WHY PENN STATE HEALTH MILTON HERSHEY MEDICAL CENTER?
Penn State Hershey Medical Center is Central Pennsylvania's only Academic Medical Center, Level 1 Regional Adult and Pediatric Trauma Center, and Tertiary Care Provider. As a four-time Magnet-designated hospital, Hershey Medical Center values the hard work and dedication that our employees exhibit every day. Through our core values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, and Excellence, our employees are a team committed to compassionate care for our diverse patient population, our community and each other. As a valued team member, we promote continued professional development, specialty certification, continuing education, and career growth.
YOU TAKE CARE OF THEM. WE'LL TAKE CARE OF YOU. State-of-the-art equipment, endless learning, and a culture of excellence - that's Penn State Health. But what makes our healthcare award-winning? That's all you.
This job posting is a general outline of duties performed and is not to be misconstrued as encompassing all duties performed within the position. Eligibility for shift differential pay based on the terms outlined in company policy or union contract. All individuals (including current employees) selected for a position will undergo a background check appropriate for the position's responsibilities.
Penn State Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected class including disability or veteran status. Penn State Health's policies and objectives are in direct compliance with all federal and state constitutional provisions, laws, regulations, guidelines, and executive orders that prohibit or outlaw discrimination.
Union: Non Bargained

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About Penn State Health

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Penn State Health is one of the leading teaching and research hospitals in the country. It is a multi-hospital health system, Academic Medical Center and Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma center serving patients and communities across Central Pennsylvania. The system includes Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State Children's Hospital, and Penn State Cancer Institute in scenic Hershey, PA. It also includes Penn State Health Saint Joseph's Medical Center in Reading, PA, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill, PA, and Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center in Enola, PA. Penn State Health shares an integrated strategic plan and operations with Penn State College of Medicine.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Hershey, PA, US

Year founded

1963

Social media

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