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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Portland, OR

Male U.A. Collector

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$16.75 - $18.75/hr

... ship to lab. · Perform with confidence all aspects of the testing, including specimen collection and processing duties following established practices and procedures · Maintain a safe and ...

Perform training of new lab personnel on operation and best practices for pipette use and handling ... shortening process time. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This role has no supervisory ...

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$21

$31

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

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
Pathology Support Specialist for GI Pathology Lab in SW Portland

Pathology Support Specialist for GI Pathology Lab in SW Portland

The Oregon Clinic

Portland, OR • On-site

$22.23 - $30.07/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


The Oregon Clinic rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Make an Impact at The Oregon Clinic! Premium Benefits, Competitive Pay, and Inspiring Purpose
Join us at The Oregon Clinic as a full-time Pathology Support Specialist. Work alongside a collaborative team of patient-focused colleagues and physicians in our Gastroenterology West Pathology Lab located in Southwest Portland. Each patient receives the highest value care tailored to their needs.
Every person at TOC makes a difference in our mission of delivering world-class care with kindness and empathy. As a member of our team, you have the opportunity to make a valuable impact within the local community and our ecosystem of care. By providing patients and internal and external stakeholders with a consistent, efficient, and easy experience, you'll help ensure that patients at The Oregon Clinic Gastroenterology West Pathology Lab receive the highest value care tailored to their needs.
Using excellent customer service and communications skills, your primary duties in this phone-based role include:
  • Responsible for general laboratory functions and assisting with the overall delivery of patient care in the department.
  • Provides essential support to the pathology laboratory by ensuring accurate specimen handling and maintaining laboratory organization.
  • Maintains accurate records and enters data into laboratory information systems.
  • Ensure proper storage and tracking of specimens throughout the testing process.
  • Assist pathologists and laboratory staff with routine procedures and clerical matters.
  • Maintains a comfortable, orderly, safe, and clean lab environment/equipment.
  • Acts as liaison between clinical staff and lab staff for missing lab results and other departments to resolve specimen or documentation discrepancies.
  • Sorts incoming faxes to distribute to pathologists as needed.
  • Receives requests for materials to be sent to other institutions for further testing in a timely manner.
  • Receives requests from pathologists to send tissues for additional testing.
  • Receives materials back into the lab and documents accordingly.
  • Distributes and files H&E slides.
  • Files tissue blocks into storage after return.
  • Makes Malignancy notifications.
  • Performs daily in-clinic specimen processing and runs quarterly QC events and any CLIA waived testing as needed.
  • Updating records as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Salary:
Hiring range, based on experience and credentials: $22.23 - $30.07 per hour.
Workdays: This role is located at the Peterkort Centre. Typical hours are Monday-Friday, (8:30 am-5:00 pm).
Qualifications that support success in this role are based on education, experience and values including:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Prior experience in a healthcare lab setting required. Pathology Lab experience is a plus!
  • Prior experience with EPIC/AP Beaker LIS is strongly preferred.
  • Knowledge of correct procedures for the handling and disposing of specimens and bio-hazardous infectious waste.
  • Demonstrated ability to initiate, work independently, and effectively multitask.
  • Excellent attendance and work ethic.
  • Positive attitude and desire to be a team player.
  • Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with patients, physicians and other team members.
  • A commitment to patient-focused care, privacy, and safety.

Make an impact in patient-focused healthcare. Look forward to coming to work and feel good about the work you do - apply today!
Premium Benefits:
  • Healthcare: Employee is 100% covered Medical, Dental, and Prescription Insurance
  • Financial Wellbeing: Generous 401(k) plan and Flexible Spending Account options
  • Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off plus 9 paid holidays annually
  • Wellness Support: Robust wellness program and employee assistance services
  • Commuter Benefits: 70% of Tri-Met transit pass covered
  • Additional Perks: Employee discounts and optional benefits like Pet Insurance

Patients and peers recognize The Oregon Clinic as a top regional healthcare provider and employer. We are:
  • Guided by our values of dedicating to excellence, compassionate and joyful connection, inclusive collaboration, listening humbly, and leading with integrity.
  • The largest physician-owned, multi-specialty medical and surgical practice in Oregon with a team of 1,500 team members across 30 specialties and our business office.
  • Dedicated to providing the highest value care tailored to the needs of each unique patient.
  • Proud to be consistently ranked by our employees as a Top 10 Workplace by The Oregonian.

Our Commitments:
  • Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion: We are more than an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and embrace differences and a diversity of backgrounds. Our goal is for patients, physicians, and team members to see and feel diversity, equity, safety, and inclusion in all aspects of their interactions with TOC clinics and administration.
  • A safe workplace: We are an alcohol and drug-free workplace for the safety of our patients and employees. Offers are contingent on successful completion of drug and background screenings.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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