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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Sacramento, CA

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Sacramento, CA is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $24.62 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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Sacramento, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Sacramento, CA are:

What cities near Sacramento, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Sacramento, CA with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in Sacramento, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,906 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Phlebotomist - Fulltime, Night shift

Adventist Health

Lodi, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted 4 days ago


Adventist Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 246 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

165th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Centered in the heart of San Joaquin County, Adventist Health Lodi Memorial has been one of the area's leading healthcare providers since 1952. We are comprised of a 190-bed hospital, 17 medical offices, home care services, comprehensive cancer care and a vast scope of award-winning services located throughout Lodi and the surrounding areas. Lodi is known for its small-town charm, extensive vineyards and delicious local restaurants and bakeries. The allure of Lodi's close-knit community is complimented by its proximity to major metropolitan cities in the Bay Area and Sacramento, as well as a quick drive to Lake Tahoe or the Northern California coast.

Job Summary:

Performs specimen collection and accession receiving. Distributes specimens to designated departments. Collects and processes appropriate patient specimens and samples for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease to conduct medical laboratory testing. Focuses on phlebotomy and specimen collection; may perform other, less complex technical and clerical tasks.

Job Requirements:

Education and Work Experience:

  • High School Education/GED or equivalent: Required in CA; Preferred in OR and HI
  • Associate's/Technical Degree or equivalent combination of education/related experience: Preferred

Licenses/Certifications:

  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician CPT I or CPT II or Medical Laboratory Technician license (MLT): Required in CA; Preferred in OR and HI

Facility Specific License/Certifications:

  • Phlebotomy Tech (CPT) or Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPTII) or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT): Required

Essential Functions:

  • Obtains blood specimens by performing venipunctures and finger sticks. Verifies specimen identification and appropriateness of sample type/volume for the indicated testing. Processes samples using aseptic technique and prepares required paperwork for appropriate testing and reference lab testing. Confers with patients to obtain information for laboratory records and to explain procedures.
  • Communicates effectively with other departments and staff, including physicians and their offices, to facilitate the flow and quality of lab work.
  • Monitors and maintains equipment as needed per regulations, interfacing with clinical engineering and technical consultant when appropriate. Follows established guidelines for missed collections, recollects, and difficult phlebotomies.
  • Assists in ordering supplies, noting expiration dates, usage, and delivery times for stock and non-stock items; upon delivery checks received items against items ordered, puts away stock, rotates items for expiration dates, and discards expired items.
  • Coordinates with Lead Phlebotomist to run quality controls daily as needed as well as other required testing. Performs proficiency testing per regulatory agency procedures and documented according to established guidelines. Participates in departmental performance improvement and quality assurance activities.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Organizational Requirements:

Adventist Health is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our associates and patients. Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment and annually thereafter, where applicable. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.
Adventist Health participates in E-Verify. Visit https://adventisthealth.org/careers/everify/ for more information about E-Verify. By choosing to apply, you acknowledge that you have accessed and read the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work notices and understand the contents therein.

Adventist Health is a faith-based, nonprofit, integrated health system serving more than 100 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii with over 440 sites of care, including 27 acute care facilities. Founded on Adventist heritage and values, Adventist Health provides care in hospitals, clinics, home care, and hospice agencies in both rural and urban communities. Our compassionate and talented team of more than 38,000 includes employees, physicians, Medical Staff, and volunteers driven in pursuit of one mission: living God's love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.

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