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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Richmond, VA

Phlebotomist II

Richmond, VA

$16.75 - $21/hr

The main function of a phlebotomist is to assist in performing various assigned duties, trouble ... the process of the venipuncture (blood drawing) and or other specimen collection (ex. urine or ...

Phlebotomist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Execute specimen handling tasks, including centrifuging, freezing, and packaging for transport ... Update and manage patient information with attention to detail. * Assist with troubleshooting ...

Phlebotomist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Execute specimen handling tasks, including centrifuging, freezing, and packaging for transport ... Update and manage patient information with attention to detail. * Assist with troubleshooting ...

Histology Assistant

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18.69 - $26.16/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... This includes specimen receiving and putting away supplies when received in the department.

Histology Assistant

Tuckahoe, VA · On-site

$18.69 - $26.16/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... This includes specimen receiving and putting away supplies when received in the department.

Showing results 41-60

Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Richmond, VA salary details

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Richmond, VA is $20.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab assistant specimen processor?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a lab assistant specimen processor?

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 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 lab assistant specimen processor?

To become a lab assistant specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with specimen handling and processing equipment. Some positions may require on-the-job training or certification in laboratory safety and procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Richmond, VA?

For Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Richmond, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Richmond, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Richmond, VA are:

What cities near Richmond, VA are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Richmond, VA with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Richmond, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,677 per year, or $20 per hour.

Laboratory Scientist/MLS/CLS/MT - Hematology - Nights

VCU Health System

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 171 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 889 rated healthcare providers


Job description

**$7,500 Sign On Bonus for offers accepted by August 31, 2026. Terms and Conditions apply**
The Medical Technologist/Medical Laboratory Scientist/Clinical Laboratory Scientist provides accurate and timely testing and results to requesting physicians and other healthcare professionals for use in diagnosis and treatment of disease. Responsible for the analyses of a variety of biological specimens and performs complex lab tests. Consistently utilize excellent customer service skills to both internal and external customers at all times. Position requires a positive and professional interpersonal style with a strong commitment to the team effort.

Essential Job Statements

  • Performs laboratory tests according to established procedures.
  • Operates, maintains, troubleshoots, and validates lab equipment.
  • Performs, documents quality control, and follows established quality assurance guidelines.
  • Assists in educating and training laboratory personnel, students, and residents.
  • Maintains laboratory supplies and inventory.
  • May perform specimen collection, specimen processing and phlebotomy as applicable to specific work location.
  • Ensures the laboratory is maintaining accreditation standards from College of American Pathologist (CAP), Joint Commission (TJ) and other accrediting agency standards as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Patient Population: Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide equitable care appropriate to the age of the patients served on their assigned unit. Demonstrates knowledge and related competencies of the principles of growth and development of the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age, specific needs and to provide the equitable care needed as described in departmental policies and procedures. Neonates (0-4 weeks), Infant (1-12 months), Pediatrics (1-12 years), Adolescents (13-17 years), Adults (18-64 years), Geriatrics (65 years and older)

Employment Qualifications

Education Qualifications

Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science (BSCLS) from an accredited program or a Bachelor's Degree in a Biological Science* in addition to graduation from an NAACLS-accredited CLS/MT certificate program OR Bachelor's Degree in a Biological Science with 5 or more years of on the job training in a hospital health care environment in a specific lab discipline performing high complexity testing in blood banking, chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology and clinical microscopy (categorical or generalist certification required).

*Unless grandfathered under previous hiring requirements

Preferred Education: Master's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science (MSCLS) from an accredited program

Licensing/ Certification

Licensure/Certification Required: MLS graduates that are hired upon graduation must obtain certification within 6 months of their graduation date.

Current Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) by the National Credentialing Agency (NCA) or American Medical Technologists (AMT) National Certifying Agency or equivalent ASCP categorical certification.

Individuals with required Credential Maintenance: technical positions that require certification maintenance, team members must obtain the number CE hours as required by The Board of Certification Credential Maintenance Program (CMP).

Individuals with ASCP certification prior to January 1, 2004, are not required to participate in the certification maintenance program.

Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment: Current Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) by the National Credentialing Agency (NCA) or American Medical Technologists (AMT) National Certifying Agency or equivalent ASCP categorical certification

Team Members with required Credential Maintenance: technical positions that require certification maintenance, team members must obtain the number CE hours as required by The Board of Certification Credential Maintenance Program (CMP).

Minimum Qualifications

Years and Type of Required Experience: Minimum: Entry Level Medical Laboratory Scientist Graduate

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: Ability to work rotating weekends as required. Ability to work Holidays scheduling as required. Ability to take on call availability as required and for emergency coverage on any shift

Cultural Responsiveness: N/A

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: Previous Medical Technologist, Clinical Lab Scientist or Medical Lab Scientist experience is preferred.

Working Conditions: Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur. General office environment. May be exposed to adverse weather conditions; cold, hot, dust, wind, etc. Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions. May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights. May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids. * May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials. * May have periods of constant interruptions.

* Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.

Physical Requirements:

Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (50-100 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (100+ lbs.), Push/ Pull (0-50 lbs.), Push/ Pull (50-100 lbs.), Stoop, Kneel, Squat, Climbing, Balance, Bending

Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing

Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards

Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work, Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision, Acuity - far, Acuity - near

Hazards: Depth perception, Use of Latex Gloves, Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents, Exposure to moving mechanical parts, Exposure to dust/fumes, Exposure to potential electrical shock, Exposure to x ray/electromagnetic energy, Exposure to high pitched noises, Gaseous risk exposure

Mental/Sensory -Emotional

Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking

Emotional: Fast pace environment, Steady Pace, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities, Frequent and Intense Customer Interactions, Noisy Environment, Able to Adapt to Frequent Change

Compensation Grade Ranges:

Med Tech: $30.01 - $46.51
Med Tech 3: $33.01 - $51.17
Med Tech 4: $33.01 - $51.17
Actual Salary offers will be based on several key factors to include relevant work experience, credentials, and qualifications.

Nights

EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran


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