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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This lab assistant will play a critical role in the Emergency Room schedule * Assist with specimen processing, including labeling, centrifuging, and aliquoting. * Prepare reagents and solutions ...

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA ยท 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 Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant ...

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA ยท 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 ...

Specimen Technician I

West Hills, CA ยท 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 ...

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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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Lab Assistant HRA-792

San Benito Health Care District

Hollister, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
Under direction and supervision of the Laboratory Support Services supervisor, collects specimens using appropriate techniques and acts to maintain specimen integrity. Represents the hospital via personable interaction with staff, patients and their friends/relatives. Develops and maintains adequate inventory control for specimen collection and processing section optimal functioning. Performs clerical duties required in the record keeping process of the laboratory including data entry and retrieval from the laboratory and hospital computer information systems, printing and delivery of patient charts, handling of telephone requests and inquiries for results, patient reception and communication. Demonstrates good interpersonal skills, listens well and maintains two-way communication with the health care team.
Responsibilities
โ€ข Obtains blood specimens from patients of all ages by venipuncture, finger stick, and/ or heel stick according to laboratory policy with minimum pain or discomfort.
โ€ข Follows "National Patient Safety Goals" which include: using two identifiers (full name, date of birth, medical record number, etc.) to correctly identify patients before drawing blood samples, hand hygiene guidelines, read-back when communicating with staff, and communicates with patients in a professional manner at all times.
โ€ข Greets patients in a courteous manner, responds to patients with empathy and positive interpersonal skills.
โ€ข Follows "order of draw" to collect proper specimens for specific tests and labels according to policy.
โ€ข Able to collect and process specimens according to test priority (STAT, timed, routine).
โ€ข Rarely misses draw, if it is a difficult patient, refers to another phlebotomist after missing twice.
โ€ข Evaluates samples for integrity and prepares components of specimens for analysis according to specification related to the type of specimen or analysis to be performed.
โ€ข Distributes specimens to appropriate departments for analysis.
โ€ข Accurate in specimen processing, logging, and data entry at all times.
โ€ข Adheres to blood culture collection policy and maintains a low contamination rate.
โ€ข Properly instructs outpatients of all ages the proper procedure to collect urine samples.
โ€ข Correctly processes all lab requisitions, forms, and specimens for routine and reference tests.
โ€ข Maintains working knowledge of hospital's information system and lab computer for specimen logging, labels disposition, written results production, and distribution to hospital units and physician's offices.
โ€ข Consistently completes duties neatly, accurately, and in a timely manner.
โ€ข Performs all procedures in a professional manner.
โ€ข Enforces and follows all laboratory safety rules and reports any possible hazard to the supervisor.
โ€ข Shares appropriate communication with other laboratory personnel involving difficult venipuncture, timed draws, etc.
โ€ข Maintain records for send-out specimens to referral laboratories and prepares specimens according to reference lab instructions.
โ€ข Monitors returning reports from referral labs daily.
โ€ข Accurately performs daily log and resolves pending list.
โ€ข Accurate in specimen logging and writing reports.
โ€ข Alphabetizes and files reports daily.
โ€ข Delivers reports upon completion of work during downtime.
โ€ข Keeps phlebotomy areas neat, clean, and well stocked with supplies.
โ€ข Keeps phlebotomy carts and trays clean and well stocked with supplies.
โ€ข Ensures inventory is adequate and submits orders per delegation by the supervisor.
โ€ข Unpacks and stocks supplies, documents date received with initials and date.
โ€ข Assists other laboratory personnel as workload permits.
โ€ข Responds to changes in work schedules as necessary or as requested.
โ€ข Accepts responsibility for and becomes available to work different work shift when workload and/ or other conditions warrant.
โ€ข Continuously works on establishing good rapport and cooperative working relationship with all co-workers.
โ€ข Shows ability to handle unexpected situations and is able to exercise independent thought and actions when necessary.
โ€ข Assists in training of new staff members as requested.
โ€ข Reports to work as scheduled.
โ€ข Always wears hospital identification badge and adheres to the hospital and department dress codes.
โ€ข Answers telephones and makes calls. Verifies ambiguous laboratory orders before entering order into the hospital information system or collecting specimen.
โ€ข Picks up and delivers specimens or supplies to offices outside of the hospital.
โ€ข Able to draw at locations outside of the main Hospital (clinics, Skilled Nursing Facilities, etc.)
โ€ข Performs tasks as assigned by the Laboratory Director.
Required Skills/Abilities
Skills:
โ€ข Basic computer knowledge.
โ€ข Proficiency in the use of phlebotomy terminology, laboratory equipment and testing.
Language Skills:
โ€ข Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
โ€ข Additional languages preferred.
Physical Demands:
โ€ข Fine motor coordination, clear speech, normal hearing, and good visual acuity with the ability to distinguish major colors.
โ€ข Must be able to move readily from one location to another in the hospital and various drawing locations.
โ€ข Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising client care.
Education & Experience
Education:
โ€ข High School Diploma or equivalent
โ€ข Current California Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Certificate required.
Experience:
โ€ข 6 months experience in an acute care setting preferred.
Job Type: Per Diem, Variable Shift
Pay: $37-$50/hour
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:
  • Hollister, CA 95023 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:
  • Hollister, CA 95023: Relocate before starting work (Required)

You can access the application form here: https://www.hazelhawkins.com/~/careers/
Alternatively, you may submit your completed application directly to apply.jobs@hazelhawkins.com.
All job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, physical exam, drug test, and verification of education qualifications and credentials.
San Benito Health Care District is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable law, we prohibit discrimination and harassment against employees, applicants for employment, individuals providing services in the workplace pursuant to a contract, and volunteers based on their actual or perceived: race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status (including registered domestic partnership status), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), gender (including gender identity and expression), age (40 and over), sexual orientation, status, military and veteran status and any other consideration protected by federal, state or local law (sometimes
referred to, collectively, as "protected characteristics").