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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in San Ramon, CA

Personalis, Inc

Clinical Lab Scientist 1

Fremont, CA · On-site

$56.25 - $66/hr

... specimen handling and next generation sequencing processes, test analyses, reporting and ... May be required to assist in assay development activities * Other duties as required Requirements:

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All JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor JobsLab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in San Ramon, CA

Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See San Ramon, CA salary details

$11

$22

$33

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

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in San Ramon, CA is $22.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $25.77 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, operate laboratory equipment, and ensure proper storage and documentation 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.

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 specimen processor for a lab?

To become a lab specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to handle biological samples safely. Some positions may require training on laboratory procedures and the use of processing equipment, and certifications in phlebotomy or laboratory safety can be advantageous. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with laboratory information systems is often helpful.

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 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 training on specific tools or certifications in safety or handling biological specimens.

How much does a specimen processor make?

The average salary for a specimen processor in California ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the healthcare facility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced processors with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also impact total compensation.

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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in San Ramon, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in San Ramon, CA are:
What cities near San Ramon, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near San Ramon, CA with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings in San Ramon, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,062 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Clinical Lab Scientist - Per Diem

Clinical Lab Scientist - Per Diem

Sutter Health

Livermore, CA • On-site

$68.50 - $85.62/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 316 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 875 rated healthcare providers

Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!
Organization:
SSL-Sutter Shared Lab-Bay
Position Overview:
Executes procedures in assigned areas of the Laboratory to deliver accurate results in a timely manner. Maintains competence to perform pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic procedures on biological specimens to aid health care providers in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and prevention of disease. Performs a variety of basic and complex Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control, quality assurance, and waived, moderate or high complexity testing (as classified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments - CLIA). If assigned to the Transfusion Service, performs moderate or high complexity testing and other duties such as blood inventory management, blood product preparation, and issuing blood products for transfusion. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure patient privacy and maintain the highest level of safety and reliability in testing.
Job Description:
EDUCATION:
  • Bachelor's degree provided prior to start date

CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE:
  • CLSL-CA Licensed Clinical Lab Scientist provided prior to start date

TYPICAL EXPERIENCE:
  • 2 years recent relevant experience.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
  • Demonstrated knowledge and technical competence in routine specimen collection, preparation, testing applications, laboratory operations, and quality assurance in assigned clinical specialty areas appropriate for licensure; examples Transfusion Service or Microbiology.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected timeframes
  • Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks. Demonstrates sound judgment and problem solving relevant to assigned duties.
  • Culturally Competent Communication: Ability to compassionately and effectively interact with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behaviors
  • Workflow Management Ability to appropriately respond to: 1) fluctuations in volume; 2) unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or IS failure; 3) shift to-shift hand-offs; 4) STAT test orders; 5) specimen integrity issues 6) regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.
  • Adherence to Practices & Procedures: Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence. Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.

These Principal Accountabilities, Requirements and Qualifications are not exhaustive, but are merely the most descriptive of the current job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, staff changes, workload, or technical development).
Job Shift:
Evenings
Schedule:
Per Diem/Casual
Shift Hours:
8
Days of the Week:
Variable
Weekend Requirements:
As Needed
Benefits:
No
Unions:
No
Position Status:
Non-Exempt
Weekly Hours:
0
Employee Status:
Per Diem/Casual
Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.
Pay Range is $68.50 to $85.62 / hour
The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.

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