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Lab Processor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Natera

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

San Carlos, CA

Ensures all case samples are processed and accounted for * Assists supervisor in completing side projects assigned by the manager * Go to person on the lab floor and when supervisor is not present

Natera

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

San Carlos, CA

Ensures all case samples are processed and accounted for * Assists supervisor in completing side projects assigned by the manager * Go to person on the lab floor and when supervisor is not present

Apple

Lab Operations Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The engineer works closely with design, validation, and operations to troubleshoot issues, keep equipment calibrated and available, and drive continuous improvement in lab processes. Minimum ...

Natera

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$65.89 - $84.21/hr

Ensures all case samples are processed and accounted for * Assists supervisor in completing side projects assigned by the manager * Go to person on the lab floor and when supervisor is not present

Natera

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$63.37 - $79.18/hr

Ensures all case samples are processed and accounted for * Assists supervisor in completing side projects assigned by the manager * Go to person on the lab floor and when supervisor is not present

Natera

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

San Carlos, CA

$63.37 - $79.18/hr

Ensures all case samples are processed and accounted for * Assists supervisor in completing side projects assigned by the manager * Go to person on the lab floor and when supervisor is not present

Natera

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$65.89 - $84.21/hr

Ensures all case samples are processed and accounted for * Assists supervisor in completing side projects assigned by the manager * Go to person on the lab floor and when supervisor is not present

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Lab Processor information

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$8

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$25

How much do lab processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab processor in California is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Processors, and how can these be managed effectively?

Lab Processors often handle multiple samples and must adhere to strict protocols to ensure accuracy and avoid cross-contamination. Managing a high volume of work, maintaining attention to detail, and meeting tight deadlines can be challenging. Effective time management, strong organizational skills, and clear communication with laboratory team members help mitigate these challenges. Regular training on safety and quality control procedures also supports consistent, high-quality results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Processor, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and attention to detail, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen tracking software, and safety protocols is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and smooth workflow in a busy lab environment. These skills are vital to maintain specimen integrity, prevent errors, and support reliable diagnostic results.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Lab processors typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized physicians, or senior management positions. High-paying jobs often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, or specialized skills, and salaries vary based on industry and location.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A lab processor typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles in fields like sales, real estate, or skilled trades such as plumbing or electrical work can reach that income level without a degree, often requiring strong skills, certifications, or licensing. Most laboratory roles pay lower wages unless combined with managerial responsibilities or advanced technical expertise.

What are Lab Processors?

Lab Processors are professionals who handle, prepare, and process laboratory specimens such as blood, urine, or tissue samples. They ensure that samples are properly labeled, stored, and documented to maintain quality and accuracy for diagnostic testing. Lab Processors may also operate laboratory equipment and assist medical technologists or scientists by preparing materials for analysis. Their role is vital in maintaining the workflow and reliability of laboratory results in healthcare and research settings.

What is the difference between Lab Processor vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab ProcessorLaboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing samples, processing specimens, data entryPerforming tests, operating lab equipment, recording results
Industry UsageCommon in healthcare and research labsWidely used in clinical and diagnostic labs

While both Lab Processors and Laboratory Technicians work in laboratory settings and handle samples, Lab Processors primarily focus on preparing and processing specimens, whereas Laboratory Technicians perform diagnostic tests and operate lab equipment. Understanding these differences can help job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying roles are often senior scientists, laboratory managers, or specialized research directors, who typically hold advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions involve overseeing research projects, managing teams, and ensuring compliance with regulations, often commanding higher salaries than entry-level or technician roles.

What does a lab processor do?

A lab processor prepares and handles biological or chemical samples in a laboratory setting, performing tasks such as labeling, sorting, and processing specimens. They often operate laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and ensure accurate documentation to support testing and analysis.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Processor jobs in California? For Lab Processor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Processor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Processor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Processor jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Processor job openings:
Lab Processor jobs near you

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

Natera

San Carlos, CA

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Natera rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Assists in analyzing specimens and works closely with supervisor to make sure production goals are met.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Verify the proper specimen being analyzed for patients and perform correct tests that need to be completed
  • Assists the team in day-to-day lab work according to standard operating procedure with little to no errors
  • Follows GLP (good laboratory practice); reports non-conformity of SOPs to supervisor/manager
  • Ensures production work is consistently completed in a timely manner.
  • Ensures all case samples are processed and accounted for
  • Assists supervisor in completing side projects assigned by the manager
  • Go to person on the lab floor and when supervisor is not present
  • Trains new hires with the current lab processes and assists supervisor in training/implementation of new process changes.
  • Assists supervisor and lab trainer in completing competency for staff.
  • Train on specialized instructions for instruments/protocols (super users)
  • Recognizes and escalates equipment malfunctions; troubleshoots most errors
  • Understands the entire lab process and identifies/troubleshoots issues when they arise.
  • Ensures new lab changes are implemented properly on the lab floor
  • Escalates lab issues and team concerns to supervisor and/or manager. Suggests possible solutions.
  • Escalates any discrepancies of team members' performance to supervisor
  • Provides feedback during performance evaluations for team members
  • Meets regularly with the Supervisor
  • Keeps team morale up and maintains professionalism of team members, including by acting as a role model
  • Adheres to departmental expectations
  • This role works with PHI on a regular basis both in paper and electronic form and have an access to various technologies to access PHI (paper and electronic) in order to perform the job
  • Employee must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire.
  • Must maintain a current status on Natera training requirements.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 8+ years of experience as a Medical Technologist or equivalent in a clinical laboratory environment.
  • BS/BA degree (or equivalent) in Medical Technology, Biological Sciences, or related field
  • Current California CLS license or CGMBS license (Clinical Genetics Molecular Biology Scientist)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, computer, troubleshooting, and pipetting skills.
  • Experience in Molecular Biology.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Word processing and data management skills.

Must be able to discern color visually [or be able to evaluate cellular morphology when applicable] and pass applicable screening assessment

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