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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Portland, OR

Phenom People

Central Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

They assist with quality control by ensuring correct specimen collection requirements, specimen ... They also assist in coordinating communications and ensure Central Lab workflows and processes ...

Labcorp

Lab Assistant

Portland, OR

Labcorpis seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team at Portland, OR. Work Schedule: 3rd Shift PRN ... Scan and/or data entry of specimen and patient information * Ensure all lab equipment is working ...

Labcorp

Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

Labcorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team at Portland, OR. Work Schedule: 3rd Shift PRN ... Scan and/or data entry of specimen and patient information * Ensure all lab equipment is working ...

Labcorp

Lab Assistant

Portland, OR

Labcorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team at Portland, OR. Work Schedule: 3rd Shift PRN ... Scan and/or data entry of specimen and patient information * Ensure all lab equipment is working ...

Labcorp

Specialty Lab Assistant

Portland, OR

LabCorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team in Portland, OR. Work Schedule: 1st Shift PRN ... Scan and/or data entry of specimen and patient information * Ensure all lab equipment is working ...

Spring Fertility

Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Role Summary The Lab Assistant is responsible to help housekeeping duties in the IVF laboratory to ... process and department operations. * Organizes scheduling, packaging and shipping of genetic ...

Spring Fertility

Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Role Summary The Lab Assistant is responsible to help housekeeping duties in the IVF laboratory to ... process and department operations. * Organizes scheduling, packaging and shipping of genetic ...

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

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$10

$21

$31

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

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Portland, OR is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.47 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 are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Portland, OR? For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs near you
Specimen Processing Specialist

Specimen Processing Specialist

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 546 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview

The purpose of this position is to provide technical support for patient care activities in the laboratory by

performing data entry, billing, client services, sample processing, resulting, filing, and laboratory procedures.

The major duty is to prepare patient specimens for laboratory testing, which includes determining specimen

acceptability, answering telephone inquires, and multi-tasking while working quickly and accurately. The

person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude which

will best serve the clients of the department, OHSU, and outside the organization.

Function/Duties of Position

Specimen receipt and processing

  • Loads specimens onto automation line for processing.
  • Centrifuges samples and transfers to appropriately labeled containers.
  • Accurately measures specimens, records volumes, and determines if sample quality and quantity is sufficient for testing.
  • Directs samples to technologists and testing areas either manually or using the automation lines, or stores samples for future testing.
  • Makes slides for staining.
  • Notifies technologists or appropriate lab when priority work is received.
  • Determines acceptability of specimens received and calls ward or physician to clarify orders or advise of unacceptable samples.

Performs data entry for samples received for testing

  • Checks accuracy of specimens, requisitions, labels.
  • Performs computer entry in Epic HIS system.
  • Handles and processes samples for many labs on and off campus.
  • Accurately labels samples, requisitions, and appropriate specimen containers.
  • Is responsible to see that all samples are logged in to the lab and triaged in a timely manner. 

Coordinates and prepares samples to be shipped to outside labs for patient care and drug study testing

  • Enters test requests into dedicated referral lab computer.
  • Fills out paperwork carefully and thoroughly to ensure accurate testing.
  • Packs infectious shipping samples per IATA standards.
  • Utilizes electronic systems provided by referral labs to transmit orders.

Other Duties as Assigned

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma and at least two years of college lab science courses, plus one year of college math or computer courses OR

  • High school diploma and two years of clinical lab experience OR

  • High school diploma and successful completion of a Lab Assistant Training program including clinical lab experience.

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

  • Training or experience demonstrating:
    • knowledge of basic laboratory techniques;
    • knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment, and materials;
    • knowledge of basic math;
    • ability to follow formulas accurately;
    • ability to handle, package, and store laboratory specimens and materials;
    • ability to operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment;
    • ability to learn routine testing methods, procedures, and techniques;
    • ability to keep accurate records in conformance with laboratory procedures; and
    • ability to follow written and verbal procedures (instructions). 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Two years in a clinical laboratory including sample receipt, sample processing, customer service, multi-line phone use.
  • Training or experience demonstrating proficiency with healthcare/lab information systems.
Additional Details

Positions in the laboratory and environs may require working flexible schedules including nights weekends

and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by

stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation;

working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective

Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature fluctuations in building.

Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

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