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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Pharr, TX

Lab Technician

Mission, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Laboratory Technician - Night Shift 9:00 pm - 5:00 am - Process Management and Laboratory ... and quality standards - Assist in the development and improvement of laboratory procedures ...

Familiarized with various interventional equipment and wires to assist the cardiologist ... During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal ...

Familiarized with various interventional equipment and wires to assist the cardiologist ... During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal ...

Familiarized with various interventional equipment and wires to assist the cardiologist ... During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal ...

Familiarized with various interventional equipment and wires to assist the cardiologist ... During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal ...

CertifiedMedical Assistant

Mission, TX · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Collect and process lab specimens including blood draws, throat swabs, and urinalysis * Administer ... 2014. 2. Medical Assistant Certification or Medical Assistant Diploma. 3. Current BLS (AHA ...

CertifiedMedical Assistant

Mission, TX · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Collect and process lab specimens including blood draws, throat swabs, and urinalysis * Administer ... 2014. 2. Medical Assistant Certification or Medical Assistant Diploma. 3. Current BLS (AHA ...

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Pharr, TX salary details

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Pharr, TX is $16.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.70 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, ensure proper storage, and may operate laboratory equipment, following safety and quality protocols 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.

How to become a lab specimen processor?

To become a lab specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have attention to detail and good organizational skills. Some positions require on-the-job training, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or specimen handling procedures is beneficial. Certification is not usually mandatory but can improve job prospects.

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.

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.

Can I be a lab assistant with no experience?

Lab assistant specimen processor roles often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment can be helpful, but many employers hire entry-level candidates and train them for specific tasks.

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 certification or training in laboratory safety and handling specimens.

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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Pharr, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Pharr, TX are:
What cities near Pharr, TX are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Pharr, TX with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Customer Service, FT-Days Outreach Lab

Customer Service, FT-Days Outreach Lab

DHR Health

Edinburg, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


DHR Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

565th of 885 rated healthcare providers


Job description

DHR Health - US:TX:Edinburg - Days
Summary:
EMPLOYEE'S FULL NAME: ________________________
FLSA STATUS: ☐ Exempt ☒ Non-Exempt
MISSION STATEMENT:
Our Mission is to improve the well-being of those we serve with a commitment to excellence: every patient, every encounter, every time.
VISION:
Our Vision is to create a world-class health system to advance medicine and increase access for the communities we serve by empowering caregivers to heal through compassion, knowledge, innovation, integrated care and excellence.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Outreach Client Support Specialist will represent the laboratory to physicians, clients, and the community. Outreach Client Support Specialist will serve as the problem resolution experts and ensure clients retain high level of customer satisfaction with the outreach laboratory.
POSITION EDUCATION/ QUALIFICATIONS:
• High School graduate or G.E.D. certificate required
• Knowledge of medical terminology required
JOB KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE:
• Medical experience required.
• Knowledge and experience of Microsoft Office programs required.
• Must be able to interact and communicate with all levels of staff, physicians, patients, and families in an effective manner.
  • Requires reasoning ability, analytical skills and good independent judgment.

• Exhibits tact, enthusiasm, and patience. Must be sensitive to cultural and bilingual issues.
Responsibilities:
POSITION RESPONSIBILITES:
• Promotes the facility mission, vision and values by effectively communicating them to others. Considers mission, vision and values in developing services, standards and practices.
• Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis
• Participate in continuing education for growth and maintenance of professional competence.
• Other duties assigned
Customer Service
• Answers the phone within in a timely manner and identifies department and self.
• Calling all Critical Values and recollects timely and accordingly
• Dresses in a professional manner.
• Committed to providing the highest quality of service and meeting our customers' needs with utmost care and courtesy.
• Treats all information as confidential. Does not discuss patient/client matters outside of work.
Issue Resolution
• Responds to internal (Hospital) and external (Outreach) client concerns in a professional and courteous manner.
• Follows through and promptly resolves client issues.
• Accurately resolves client problems.
• Documents client issues and communicates resolution mechanisms to outreach management.
Ordering Facilitation
• Assists clients in ordering laboratory tests internal (Hospital) and external (Outreach)
• Provides correct specimen requirement information.
• Troubleshoots online, requisition, and other test ordering methods over the phone.
• Outlines test turnaround and result information to clients.
Teamwork
• Participates in teaching and orientation of others.
• Does not gossip, engage in verbal abuse, or use profanity.
• Promotes a harmonious work environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
Billing
• Identifies and enters any missing data elements including but not limited to missing charges, procedure codes, pricing, invalid or expired CPT codes, missing payer and missing diagnosis codes
LINES OF REPSONSIBILITES:
(Chain-of-command)
1. Direct Supervisor → 2. Vice President of Outreach Lab → 3. Sr. Executive Vice President DHR
Other information:
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: ____________________

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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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