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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Specimen Processor

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$23.69 - $28.47/hr

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 6 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 6 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 6 months or more ...

Specimen Prep Technician

Sonora, CA

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Lab Support Step into a fastpaced, handson role at our corporate laboratory, where Specimen Prep ... This position reports to Specimen Processing Supervisor, and takes direction from Senior Specimen ...

$21/hr

Central Processing/Reference Lab * Location: Loyola Medical Center, Maywood, IL * ** Brand NEW Clinical Laboratory - Features daylight access, in an open concept lab space** About the Job In this ...

$21/hr

Central Processing/Reference Lab * Location: Loyola Medical Center, Maywood, IL * ** Brand NEW Clinical Laboratory - Features daylight access, in an open concept lab space** About the Job In this ...

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months' or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months' or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months' or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months' or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Specimen Accessioner

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

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Lab Specimen Processing information

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, ensure proper storage, and maintain laboratory safety and cleanliness standards, often using laboratory information systems and following strict protocols.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Clinical Laboratory Managers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certification, and involve overseeing laboratory operations and compliance.

What is lab specimen processing?

Lab specimen processing refers to the series of steps involved in receiving, identifying, preparing, and managing biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for laboratory testing. This process ensures that specimens are accurately labeled, properly stored, and delivered to the appropriate department for analysis. Proper specimen processing is critical for obtaining reliable test results and maintaining patient safety. Staff handling this process must follow strict protocols to prevent contamination, mix-ups, or delays.

What are some common challenges faced in lab specimen processing, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab specimen processing professionals often encounter challenges such as handling a high volume of samples, ensuring accurate labeling, and maintaining specimen integrity under time constraints. Effective management involves staying organized, double-checking patient information, and following strict protocols to prevent contamination or mix-ups. Strong attention to detail and clear communication with laboratory technicians and medical staff are also key to minimizing errors and ensuring smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Lab Specimen Processing vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab Specimen ProcessingMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in specimen handlingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratory support areas, focusing on specimen receipt and preparationLaboratory testing, analysis, and reporting of results
Job ResponsibilitiesReceiving, labeling, and preparing specimens for testingPerforming tests, analyzing samples, and documenting results

Lab Specimen Processing primarily involves preparing and handling specimens for testing, while Medical Laboratory Technicians perform actual testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in the lab workflow, with overlapping skills in specimen handling and laboratory procedures, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Lab Specimen Processing Technician, you need attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with laboratory experience or certification preferred. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and specimen tracking software is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure accurate specimen handling, minimize errors, and support efficient laboratory operations critical to patient diagnostics.

How to become a lab specimen processor?

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 materials safely. Some positions may require training on laboratory procedures and the use of processing equipment, and certifications in phlebotomy or laboratory safety can be beneficial. On-the-job training is common, and the role often involves working in a clinical or hospital environment with standard work hours.

Can I be a lab assistant with no experience?

Lab specimen processing roles often require basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and attention to detail, but many entry-level positions do not require prior experience. Employers may provide on-the-job training and may look for candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Certifications or familiarity with lab equipment can be helpful but are not always mandatory for starting positions.
What job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Specimen Processing jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Specimen Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processing job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Lab Specimen Processor - Part-Time

Lab Specimen Processor - Part-Time

Millennium Health

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$18.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

LAB SPECIMEN PROCESSOR โ€“ Entry Level Role

Help make a positive impact in communities across the nation!

Millennium Health LLC is an accredited specialty laboratory with more than a decade of experience in medication monitoring and drug testing services, helping clinicians monitor use of prescription medications and illicit drugs supporting improved clinical decision-making as part of treatment for millions of Americans with chronic pain, mental illness, and substance use disorders.?

The Lab Specimen Processor is responsible for preparing urine and oral fluid specimens for analysis in our drug testing laboratory. This includes specimen receiving and sorting, aliquoting, centrifugation, and racking. This is a fast-paced, multi-faceted position that requires great flexibility, attention to detail and accuracy.

Location: Rancho Bernardo, CA

Schedule: Part-time

  • Tuesday through Friday 6:00 am to 10:00 am; and Saturday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Must be able to work mandatory overtimes as needed on Saturday.
  • These schedule details are required and cannot be adjusted.

Salary: $18.25 per hour.

As a Laboratory Specimen Processor:

  • Specimen receiving, sorting and bag opening.
  • Data entry of required testing, patient information, medical insurance requirements.
  • Identify, label, and document urine and oral fluid specimens.
  • Prepare urine and oral fluid specimens for analysis: Aliquot, centrifuge, batching and racking.
  • Responsible for accurately distinguishing colors and smells in urine specimens.
  • Stock, clean and maintain the laboratory and all equipment.
  • Identify and document specimen discrepancies.
  • Display strong work ethic and enjoy working in a team environment.
  • Demonstrate understanding of HIPAA laws and ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Follow company safety practices.

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Due to occupational work with saliva/oral swab specimens, there is a low risk of exposure to tuberculosis. As part of Millennium Healthโ€™s Tuberculosis Exposure Plan, all laboratory personnel have the opportunity to be screened for tuberculosis free of charge.

POTENTIAL HIRING RANGE:

  • $22,776.00
  • Offers are based on skills, knowledge, and abilities of the selected candidate.

Millennium Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and E-Verify participant. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.

California Employee Privacy Notice - Millennium Health LLC

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Previous data entry experience highly preferred.
  • Previous experience in a laboratory is helpful. Previous experience working in a fast-paced production environment where the work is repetitive is desirable.
  • Basic experience with MS Outlook, Excel, and Word.
  • Ability to ensure HIPAA, Confidentiality and Compliance policy, procedures, and standards are always adhered to.
  • Ability to ensure administrative, physical and technical cyber security controls are always adhered to.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Sitting 45%, Walking 10%, Standing 45%.
  • Lifting up to 20 lbs., periodically over-head.
  • Fine motor manipulation for up to 8 hours - gripping and grasping.
  • Reaching and extending arms, twisting cups and tearing packages.
  • Ability to work in an environment with moderate noise level.
  • Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability Insurance
  • 401k with Company Match
  • Paid Time off and Holidays
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Behavioral and Health Care Resources
  • Many others!