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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Specimen Processor

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $21.25/hr

... lab operations Communicate effectively with other departments about issues regarding specimen processing Clean storage bins and carts as needed Other duties as assigned Requirements: PROFESSIONAL ...

Specimen Processor

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.50/hr

Complete any additional tasks needed, such as stocking/refilling supplies for lab operations * Communicate effectively with other departments about issues regarding specimen processing * Clean ...

Specimen Accessioner

Riverside, CA · 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 ...

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

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

Specimen Accessioner

Calabasas, CA · 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 ...

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · 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 ...

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · 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 ...

Specimen Accessioner

Calabasas, CA · 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 ...

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Lab Specimen Processing information

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.
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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Phlebotomist LTA II - Specimen Processing

Phlebotomist LTA II - Specimen Processing

City of Hope

Irvine, CA

$18 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


City Of Hope rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 869 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Phlebotomist Laboratory Technical Assistant II - Specimen Processing  (Full-Time, Day shift)

Join the transformative team at City of Hope, where we're changing lives and making a real difference in the fight against cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and treatment facilities in Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix. Our dedicated and compassionate employees are driven by a common mission: To deliver the cures of tomorrow to the people who need them today. 

City of Hope is seeking a Phlebotomist Laboratory Technical Assistant II (Specimen Processing) to support our Clinical Pathology department. The primary responsibility for this role is specimen processing, including preparation for both in-house and send-out laboratory testing. The position also involves drawing blood from patients and donors in accordance with established procedures and safety standards. Under the direction of the Clinical Laboratory Manager, this role provides advanced support across various lab operations—mentoring new staff, resolving specimen and workflow issues, fulfilling special draw requests, ordering supplies, and assisting with procedure development. This position plays a key role in supporting departmental and medical center objectives within a fast-paced, acute care environment.

Note: This position is for the day shift (11:30am – 8:00PM), although it may vary slightly based on business needs. This position reports to the Clinical Laboratory Manager and requires flexibility, as weekend coverage may be needed. This position requires flexibility to accommodate varying patient needs. Shifts may include days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. On-call responsibilities and mandatory overtime may also be necessary.

As a successful candidate, you will: 

  • Perform high-volume specimen processing, including labeling, centrifugation, routing, and preparation for in-house and send-out testing.
  • Draw blood using appropriate techniques and equipment, observing patient safety and following established procedures.
  • Collect, label, and transport specimens, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and proper handling across all specimen types.
  • Troubleshoot and document specimen and workflow issues; maintain logs such as maintenance and temperature records.
  • Support daily operations by greeting patients, processing lab orders, assisting with staff assignments, and mentoring new team members.
  • Collaborate with team members to meet departmental goals, provide weekend oversight as needed, and contribute to special projects and scheduling.

Your qualifications should include: 

  • High School or equivalent (GED)
  • Three to five years of experience as a competent phlebotomist
  • Specimen Processing Experience highly preferred
  • California phlebotomy technician license 
  • BLS Certification through the American Heart Association

City of Hope employees pay is based on the following criteria: work experience, qualifications, and work location.

City of Hope is an equal opportunity employer. To learn more about our Comprehensive Benefits, please CLICK HERE.


What City Of Hope employees say

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About City of Hope

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

City of Hope is an independent biomedical research and treatment organization for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a leader in bone marrow transplantation and immunotherapy such as CAR T cell therapy. City of Hopes translational research and personalized treatment protocols advance care throughout the world. Human synthetic insulin, monoclonal antibodies and numerous breakthrough cancer drugs are based on technology developed at the institution. AccessHope, a subsidiary launched in 2019 serves employers and their health care partners by providing access to City of Hopes specialized cancer expertise. City of Hope is ranked among the nations Best Hospitals in cancer by U.S. News & World Report and received Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Its main campus is located near Los Angeles, with additional locations throughout Southern California and in Arizona.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duarte, CA, US

Year founded

1913