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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Laboratory MedTech Lead

Durham, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Summary The Lab Medical Tech is responsible for Performs and coordinating a range of complex ... specimen quality, interpret complex test results, and provide consultative support. • Assist ...

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

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$19

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Raleigh, NC is $19.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 Raleigh, NC? For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Cytopreparatory Technician, Cytology Lab, Winston Campus, 1st shift

Cytopreparatory Technician, Cytology Lab, Winston Campus, 1st shift

Advocate Aurora Health

Wake Forest, NC • On-site

$22.90 - $34.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Advocate Aurora Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 767 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

187th of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Department:
60941 Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center - Lab: Cytology
Status:
Full time
Benefits Eligible:
Yes
Hours Per Week:
40
Schedule Details/Additional Information:
M-F 8-5 pm
Pay Range
$22.90 - $34.35
Position Highlights:
  • Full-Time, Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
  • Cytology Lab
  • Winston Campus

Education/Experience:
  • Associate's degree in chemical, Physical or Biological Science.
  • Bachelor's degree in chemical, Physical or Biological Science preferred.
  • Three years of cytology or laboratory experience preferred.

Essential Functions:
  • Ensures correct identification of patient samples beginning with accessioning and continuing throughout the preanalytic process.
  • Operates ThinPrep and SurePath Processors for gynecological and non-gynecological specimens.
  • Processes and grosses Nongynecologic Cytology Specimens including Fine Needle Aspirations and Cytology Core Biopsies for diagnostic evaluation following established procedures including those for ThinPrep, SurePath, Cytospins, and cell blocks.
  • Utilizes judgement on cytology specimens as to best course of processing specimens with aid of established procedures and guidance of manager/ senior cytotechnologists. Reviews and consults manuals and procedure bulletins when needed.
  • Coverslips microscopic slides as indicated in procedure manual.
  • Performs and documents QA activities correctly.
  • Ensure that all inventories are complete and appropriate supplies are ordered.
  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment, engineering controls, and work practice controls as listed in the section task list. All hospitals require safety training to be completed. Adherence to CAP, CLIA, and OSHA regulations.
  • Stains microscopic slides as indicated in the procedure manual.
  • Maintains cytology slide files according to established procedure.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by leadership.

Skills & Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of procedures and protocols related to specimen processing and staining.
  • Ability to meet CMS requirements for high complexity testing due to performing grossing.
  • Ability to competently and accurately use electronic medical record systems.
  • Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues with vendors and technical representatives.
  • Ability to listen and communicate effectively.
  • High attention to detail.
  • Ability to follow laboratory procedures and protocols.
  • Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
  • Ability to demonstrate and teach cytopreparatory techniques to fellows, residents, students and new employees.

Work Environment:
  • Exposure to infection from disease-bearing specimens or patients.
  • Exposure to risk of bloodborne/airborne disease.
  • Must wear protective equipment (gloves, gowns/lab coats, eye protection, face protection).
  • Exposure to hazards for electrical/mechanical/power equipment.
  • Possible exposure to odorous chemicals and specimens.
  • Possible exposure to toxic/flammable/explosive chemicals and gases.
  • Subject to injury from moving parts of equipment.
  • Moderate noise environment.
  • Subject to injury from sharps.
  • Subject to many interruptions.
  • Occasionally subject to irregular hours.
  • Subject to stressful situations.

DISCLAIMER
All responsibilities and requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only responsibilities to be performed by an employee occupying this job or position. Employees must follow any other job-related instructions and perform any other job-related duties requested by their leaders.
Our Commitment to You:
Advocate Health offers a comprehensive suite of Total Rewards: benefits and well-being programs, competitive compensation, generous retirement offerings, programs that invest in your career development and so much more - so you can live fully at and away from work, including:
Compensation
  • Base compensation listed within the listed pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training
  • Premium pay such as shift, on call, and more based on a teammate's job
  • Incentive pay for select positions
  • Opportunity for annual increases based on performance

Benefits and more
  • Paid Time Off programs
  • Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
  • Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave
  • Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
  • Educational Assistance Program

Note: Eligibility for programs listed above may depend on your FTE or status (e.g., full-time, part-time, per diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview.
About Advocate Health
Advocate Health is the third-largest nonprofit, integrated health system in the United States, created from the combination of Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. Providing care under the names Advocate Health Care in Illinois; Atrium Health in the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama; and Aurora Health Care in Wisconsin, Advocate Health is a national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Advocate Health services nearly 6 million patients and is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine serving as the academic core of the enterprise. It is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics and rehabilitation, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Advocate Health employs 155,000 teammates across 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations, and offers one of the nation's largest graduate medical education programs with over 2,000 residents and fellows across more than 200 programs. Committed to providing equitable care for all, Advocate Health provides more than $6 billion in annual community benefits.

What Advocate Aurora Health employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About Advocate Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Advocate Healthcare, based in Oak Lawn, Illinois, United States, is a leading figure in the health care industry. Accessible via their official website, 'advocatehealth.com', this organization provides a wide variety of medical services and treatment options. Founded in 1995 through a merger of Evangelical Health Systems Corporation and Lutheran General HealthSystem, Advocate Healthcare has grown exponentially over the years. Now, it operates more than 400 sites of care, including 12 hospitals that encompass 11 acute care hospitals, the state’s largest integrated children’s network, five Level I trauma centers, and three Level II trauma centers. Upholding their values of equality, compassion, excellence, partnership and stewardship, Advocate Healthcare's mission is centered on building lifelong relationships with patients by delivering the best health outcomes and highest level of service through an integrated approach to care and wellness.

Industry

Hospitals and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US