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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.01 - $22.95 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.01 - $22.95 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.01 - $22.95 / hour ; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.01 - $22.95 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

HiredFirst

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$1.8K - $2.0K/wk

Perform and prioritize clinical lab testing across multiple departments * Ensure accurate specimen processing, testing, and result reporting * Perform blood bank testing (gel and tube methods)

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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.
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Lab Specimen Processing jobs near you
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.
Supervisor, Laboratory Assistants | Full Time Regular | Dayshift

Supervisor, Laboratory Assistants | Full Time Regular | Dayshift

Adventist Health

Saint Helena, CA • On-site

$78K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Adventist Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 240 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description


Located in one of the most beautiful regions in the United States, St. Helena Hospital was founded in 1878 and has a rich history of innovative medical care. We are comprised of a 151-bed hospital, emergency department and medical offices with centers of excellence in specialty care, including Adventist Heart and Vascular Institute, Coon Joint Replacement Institute, Martin-O'Neil Cancer Center and Behavioral Health units. In the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a charming place, and the quality of life is unsurpassed with outdoor adventure, rejuvenation at luxurious spas, popular restaurants, as well as perfect weekend getaways to San Francisco or the coast.
Job Summary:
Oversees the appropriate staffing to cover the lab assistant functions of the department. Prepares the schedule in accordance with staffing availability and in conjunction with appropriate skill mix to cover the needs for phlebotomy. Assists with staff selection, involved with interviewing and assessment of applicants. Has knowledge of the lab billing process and is able to audit the lab charges from the LIS (Mysis) into the HIS (Cerner) systems. Collects blood from patients, assures the quality and integrity of the specimen and correctly identifies the patient, assures the comfort of the patient, follows policies and procedures that have been established by the directors. Performs clerical duties that guarantee the distribution of patient information. Supervises and directs the activities of various levels of assigned personnel using both professional and supervisory discretion and independent judgment.
Job Requirements:
Education and Work Experience:
  • High School Education/GED or equivalent: Required
  • Experience in Phlebotomy in a clinical laboratory: Preferred

Licenses/Certifications:
  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) license: Preferred

Essential Functions:
  • Trains, supervises and schedules the senior laboratory assistants, laboratory assistants/phlebotomists. Assigns staff to patients and patient care activities according to staff skills and patient acuity. Adjusts daily work assignments to meet the demands of the department. Participates in interviews and selection of new staff. Provides input on coaching, mentoring, and performance management of laboratory employees. Assists in orientation and training of new laboratory personnel.
  • Collects, processes, and preserves specimens in inpatient settings. Performs clerical duties to process and report test results. Prioritizes based on order status. Follows proper procedure in processing patients in the laboratory and directs the same activities for his/her staff. Assists in performance time and attendance with policies and procedures for Lab Assistant personnel. Participates in problem resolution pertaining to the Lab Assistants. Monitors the work habits (assess competency, techniques - use of safety equipment) of the department laboratory assistants.
  • Performs specimen processing using standard lab practices and quality control. Assists with writing and revising policies and procedures, and new product development. Communicates with others within the department to facilitate the flow and quality of the lab work. Ensures that the staff works within the guidelines of the hospital Infection Control plan and reports issues to the Laboratory Director.
  • Assists Clinical Lab Scientist with operation of instrumentation. Consults with a clinical laboratory scientist or phlebotomy supervisor when difficulties are encountered in phlebotomy, test selection, or specimen processing. Reports panic, stat or other abnormal test results following approval of Clinical Lab Scientist.
  • Completes microbiology pre-analytical procedures and documentation for laboratory testing. Performs testing according to laboratory policies including quality control standards, calibrations, and documentation. Documents quality control, calibration and test results.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Organizational Requirements:
Adventist Health is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our associates and patients. Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment and annually thereafter, where applicable. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.
Adventist Health participates in E-Verify. Visit https://adventisthealth.org/careers/everify/ for more information about E-Verify. By choosing to apply, you acknowledge that you have accessed and read the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work notices and understand the contents therein.
About Us
Adventist Health is a faith-based, nonprofit, integrated health system serving more than 100 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii with over 440 sites of care, including 27 acute care facilities. Founded on Adventist heritage and values, Adventist Health provides care in hospitals, clinics, home care, and hospice agencies in both rural and urban communities. Our compassionate and talented team of more than 38,000 includes employees, physicians, Medical Staff, and volunteers driven in pursuit of one mission: living God's love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.

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