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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Topeka, KS

Phlebotomist - PRN

Lawrence, KS

$16 - $20/hr

... specimen handling duties. They work with the Medical Technologists and Clerical Assistants and are involved in pre-analytical, post-analytical and technical lab processes. ESSENTIAL JOB ...

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Lab Assistant Specimen Processor information

See Topeka, KS salary details

$9

$19

$28

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant specimen processor in Topeka, KS is $19.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.73 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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Topeka, KS look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs in Topeka, KS are:
What cities near Topeka, KS are hiring for Lab Assistant Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Topeka, KS with the most Lab Assistant Specimen Processor job openings:
Medical Laboratory Assistant - Laboratory - PT - Evening

Medical Laboratory Assistant - Laboratory - PT - Evening

Stormont Vail Health

Topeka, KS

$17 - $22.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Stormont Vail Health rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

707th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Status:

Part time

Shift:

Second Shift (Evenings - Less than 12 hours per shift) (United States of America)

Hours per week:

20

Job Information
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt
A Brief Overview
Responsible for supporting the laboratory's technical professionals and technicians in the performance of clinical and anatomic pathology laboratory testing.
Education Qualifications

  • High School Diploma / GED Required


Experience Qualifications

  • 1 year Phlebotomy or laboratory experience. Preferred


Skills and Abilities

  • Follows all OSHA guidelines and hospital and laboratory safety procedures. (Required proficiency)
  • Ability to multi-task and prioritize work, particularly during busy times. (Required proficiency)
  • Ability to read and understand oral and written instructions. (Required proficiency)
  • Knowledge of laboratory operations as well as policies and procedures. (Preferred proficiency)
  • Ability to follow directions accurately. (Required proficiency)
  • Strong attention to detail. (Required proficiency)


What you will do

  • Reviews, clarifies and verifies healthcare provider orders for laboratory tests. Orders tests and receives specimens in the electronic health record. Follows protocols for patient and specimen identification.
  • Understands the basics of specimen collection and complications that can impact analytical results. Communicates specimen collection information directly to healthcare providers and patients as needed.
  • Understands specimen integrity and acceptability of a specimen for testing. Processes specimens according to correct protocol--centrifugation, aliquoting, storage, transport, special handling considerations (time, temperature, and light). Evaluates for proper type and adequate volume of specimen.
  • Distributes specimens and/or prepared slides to the appropriate testing personnel/section.
  • Acts as a support person for internal and external customers with regards to problem solving. Answers questions regarding test orders and specimen requirements.
  • Perform and report results on waived test systems.
  • Monitors supplies and inventory for area of responsibility. Cleans and maintains specimen processing and testing benches and equipment.
  • Supports testing in assigned departments. May include (1) Preparation, labeling and staining of slides (manually and/or automated); (2) Microbiology set-up/plating; (3) Preparation of reagents, standards and controls; (4) Running analytical instrumentation under the supervision of technical staff; (5) Performing quality control and/or routine maintenance on equipment.
  • Alert to sources of error. Determines duplicate and incorrectly ordered tests. Follows procedures for confirmation of frequently misordered tests.
  • Package specimens per International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations and facilitates transfer of specimens to primary and/or reference laboratories.
  • Intake, documentation, and discharge of deceased patients from morgue.
  • Supports and provides training to new team members as directed.


Required for All Jobs

  • Complies with all policies, standards, mandatory training and requirements of Stormont Vail Health
  • Performs other duties as assigned


Patient Facing Options

  • Position is Not Patient Facing


Remote Work Guidelines

  • Workspace is a quiet and distraction-free allowing the ability to comply with all security and privacy standards.
  • Stable access to electricity and a minimum of 25mb upload and internet speed.
  • Dedicate full attention to the job duties and communication with others during working hours.
  • Adhere to break and attendance schedules agreed upon with supervisor.
  • Abide by Stormont Vail's Remote Worker Policy and will review and acknowledge the Remote Work Agreement annually.


Remote Work Capability

  • On-Site; No Remote


Scope

  • No Supervisory Responsibility

  • No Budget Responsibility No Budget Responsibility


Physical Demands

  • Balancing: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Carrying: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Climbing (Ladders): Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Climbing (Stairs): Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Crouching: Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination: Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Feeling: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Grasping (Fine Motor): Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Grasping (Gross Hand): Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Handling: Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Hearing: Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Kneeling: Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Lifting: Rarely less than 1 hour up to 25 lbs
  • Pulling: Rarely less than 1 hour up to 25 lbs
  • Pushing: Rarely less than 1 hour up to 25 lbs
  • Reaching (Forward): Frequently 3-5 Hours up to 25 lbs
  • Reaching (Overhead): Occasionally 1-3 Hours up to 25 lbs
  • Repetitive Motions: Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Sitting: Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Standing: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Stooping: Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Talking: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Walking: Frequently 3-5 Hours


Working Conditions

  • Chemical: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Dusts: Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Electrical: Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Explosive: Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Infectious Diseases: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Mechanical: Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Needle Stick: Occasionally 1-3 Hours
  • Noise/Sounds: Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Risk of Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids: Continuously greater than 5 hours
  • Hazards (other): Rarely less than 1 hour
  • Vibration: Rarely less than 1 hour

Working Conditions Comments:
Occasionally works with weak acidic and basic chemicals. Some positions work with formal

Stormont Vail is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to the philosophy and practice of providing equal opportunities for all employees and prospective employees, without regard to the following classifications: race, color, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, marital status, uniformed service, disability or genetic information. This applies to all aspects of employment practices including hiring, firing, pay, benefits, promotions, lateral movements, job training, and any other terms or conditions of employment.

Retaliation is prohibited against any person who files a claim of discrimination, participates in a discrimination investigation, or otherwise opposes an unlawful employment act based upon the above classifications.


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