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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in McAllen, TX

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

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

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in McAllen, TX is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $21.92 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 McAllen, TX? For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in McAllen, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in McAllen, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in McAllen, TX are:
What cities near McAllen, TX are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near McAllen, TX with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Laboratory Assistant, -Nights- FT -Lab

Laboratory Assistant, -Nights- FT -Lab

DHR Health

Edinburg, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


DHR Health rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

632nd of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

DHR Health - US:TX:Edinburg - Days
Summary:
POSITION SUMMARY:
A Laboratory Assistant is responsible for the proper collection and processing of laboratory specimens under the task direction of the laboratory supervisor, senior technologist and/or lead lab assistant. The individual is expected to be competent in the use of the laboratory information system, to assist in the handling of test reports (i.e., filing, distributing) and to maintain supplies associated with assigned duties.
POSITION EDUCATION/ QUALIFICATIONS:
• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
JOB KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE:
  • One (1) year of experience in a medical field, or a Bachelor's Degree in a Healthcare Related field.

Responsibilities:
POSITION RESPONSIBILITES:
  • Performs phlebotomy and a variety of other routine chemical, bacteriological, serological, and hematological procedures in accordance with standard policy and procedure guidelines.
  • Performs venipuncture on patients in a timely manner as requested by the medical staff.
  • Performs analysis or other evaluation in accordance with PMCC, CLIA and OSHA established standards.
  • Monitor pending functions daily to ensure all collected specimens have been processed
  • Conducts other designated laboratory testing.
  • Orders and stocks supplies, sterilizes instruments, and prepares equipment in the work area.
  • Logs patient specimens and enters test results on forms or in computer.
  • Must be detailed oriented for data entry into the Web MD Outreach and other Piedmont Lab software systems.
  • Collects data, prepares reports, answers correspondence, and compiles statistics as directed. Closing out with reports, check on reports not received and do follow-up.
  • Do add-ons.
  • Establish and maintain effective relationships with internal and external customers
  • Process stats, coagulation and other time sensitive specimens immediately
  • Ensures that the lab is clean and well-stocked at all times.
  • Good work ethic, responsible, self-starter, team player with the ability to multi-task.
  • Computer literacy required.
  • Attend department and facility meetings as well as applicable in-service education programs
  • Responsible for reading and complying with information communicated in weekly laboratory newsletters
  • Complete all mandatory training, policy/procedure review and competency requirements
  • Other duties as assigned.

Other information:
LINES OF REPSONSIBILITES:
(Chain-of-command)
1. Vice President of Reference Lab → 2. Senior Executive Vice President
CUSTOMER SERVICE:
Provide excellent customer service to all DHR customers. All employees are required to attend the DHR C.A.R.E.S program which outlines the Customer Service Principals including: Commitment, Accountability, Respect, Excellence and Service.
AGE SPECIFIC:
Employees must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served in his/her assigned unit. The individual must demonstrate knowledge of principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirement relative to his or her age.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: (ADA):
A. Essential Duties: Indicated by bold print within performance standards, preceding individual numbered criteria.
The following table provides physical requirements that will be associated with, but not limited to, this position:
• Light/moderate lifting up to 20 lbs, from the floor to shoulder height.
• Yes
• Kneeling
• Yes
• Must be able to assist other employees with lifting more than 20 lbs.
• Yes
• Walking
• Yes
• Light/moderate carrying up to 20 lbs.
• Yes
• Standing/Squatting
• Yes
• Straight pulling
• Yes
• Sitting
• Yes
• Pulling hand over hand
• Yes
• Pushing
• Yes
• Repeated bending
• Yes
• Stooping/Bending
• Yes
• Reaching above shoulder
• Yes
• Climbing Stairs
• Yes
• Simple grasping
• Yes
• Climbing Ladders
• No
• Dual simultaneous grasping
• Yes
• Depth Perceptions needed
• Yes
• Ability to see
• Yes
• Identify Colors
• Yes
• Operating office equipment
• Yes
• Twisting
• Yes
• Operating mechanical equipment
• Yes
• Crawling
• No
• Ability to read and write
• Yes
• Ability to Count
• Yes
• Ability to hear verbal communication without aid
• Yes
• Operating Personal Vehicle
• Yes
• Ability to comprehend written/verbal communication
• Yes
• Other: Ability to deal with stress
• Yes
• OSHA Category
• III

• B. Working Conditions: The individual spends over 95% of his/her time in an air-conditioned environment with varying exposures to noise. There is protection from weather conditions but not necessarily from temperature changes. The position does have low exposure to malodorous, infectious body fluids from patients and some minimal exposure to noxious smells from cleansing agents.
C. Occupational Exposure: This position has minimal to no exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues and is an OSHA Category III (although situations can be imagined or hypothesized under which anyone, anywhere, might encounter potential exposure to body fluids). Person who performs these duties are not called upon as part of their employment to perform or assist in emergency medical care or first aid or to be potentially exposed in some other way.
D. Aptitudes: HIGH 1 2 3 4 5 6 LOW
Intelligence: General learning ability: The ability to "catch on" or understand instructions and underlying principles. Ability to reason and make judgments. 3
Verbal: Ability to understand meanings of words and ideas associated with them, and to use them effectively. To comprehend language, to understand relationships between words, and to understand meanings of whole sentences and paragraphs. To present information or ideas clearly. 3
Numerical: Ability to perform arithmetic operations quickly and accurately. 2
Spatial: Ability to comprehend forms in space and understands relationships of plane and solid objects. Frequently described as the ability to "visualize" objects or two or three dimensions, or to think visually of geometric forms. 2
Form Perception: Ability to perceive pertinent details and objects or in pictorial or graphic material to make visual comparisons and discriminations and see slight differences in shapes and shadings of figures and widths and lengths of lines. 3
Clerical Perception: Ability to receive pertinent details and verbal or tabular material. To observe differences in copy, to proofread words and numbers, and to avoid perceptual errors in arithmetic computation. 2
Motor Coordination: Ability to coordinate eyes and hands to fingers rapidly and accurately in making precise movements with speed. Ability to make a movement response accurately and quickly. 3
Finger Dexterity: Ability to move hands easily and skillfully. To work with fingers in placing and turning motions. 3
Manual Dexterity: Ability to move hands easily and skillfully. To work with hands in placing and turning motions. 3
Eye-Hand-Foot Coordination: Ability to move the hand and foot coordinately with each other in accordance with visual stimuli. 3
Color Discrimination: Ability to perceive and respond to similarities or differences in colors, shapes, or other values of the same or different color. To identify a particular color, or to recognize harmonious or contrasting color combinations, or to match color adequately. 3
I have read and reviewed my job description with my supervisor or designee and I understand the job I am expected to perform.
If applicable ____________ certification will be completed within _________ time frame of hire/transfer date.
Employee Signature: ________________________________ Date: ____________________
Transfer/Hire Date Effective: ________________________.

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About DHR Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DHR Health, located in Edinburg, Texas, is a major player in the healthcare industry, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. Launched in 1997 by Dr. Carlos J. Cardenas and Dr. Manish Singh, the enterprise was established with the emblematic pursuit of raising the healthcare standards of the Rio Grande Valley. Today, it serves as a full-service health system providing advanced specialty care to individuals irrespective of their ability to pay, emphasizing its commitment to the community. In line with its mission statement, DHR Health focuses on the development of a comprehensive health system devoted to ensuring superior health services, education, and financial solvency. With significant contributions to the medical field, like the installation of South Texas's first da Vinci Xi Surgical System, DHR has effectively notched distinct achievements.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Edinburg, TX, US

Year founded

1997

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