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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Labcorp

Laboratory Specimen Processor

Itasca, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $18.50/hr

Ensure all lab equipment is working properly and perform minor instrumentation maintenance ... processing experience * 3 months or more of medical or laboratory experience Additional Job ...

Labcorp

Laboratory Specimen Processor

Itasca, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $18.50/hr

Ensure all lab equipment is working properly and perform minor instrumentation maintenance ... processing experience * 3 months or more of medical or laboratory experience Additional Job ...

Carle Health

Lab Assistant

Urbana, IL

$19.25 - $31.19/hr

OverviewThe Processing Lab Assistant receives all laboratory specimens arriving from hospital ... Performs specimen processing and preparation as needed. May perform testing as assigned and in ...

Carle Health

Lab Assistant

Urbana, IL

$19.25 - $31.19/hr

Overview The Processing Lab Assistant receives all laboratory specimens arriving from hospital ... Performs specimen processing and preparation as needed. May perform testing as assigned and in ...

Carle Health

Lab Assistant

Urbana, IL · On-site

$19.25 - $31.19/hr

Overview The Processing Lab Assistant receives all laboratory specimens arriving from hospital ... Performs specimen processing and preparation as needed. May perform testing as assigned and in ...

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All JobsLab Specimen Processing JobsLab Specimen Processing Jobs in Illinois

Lab Specimen Processing information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$16

$23

How much do lab specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processing in Illinois is $16.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a specimen processor for a lab?

To become a 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 samples safely. Some positions may require training on lab protocols and the use of processing equipment, and certifications in phlebotomy or laboratory safety can be advantageous. On-the-job training is common, and the role often involves working in a clinical or hospital environment with standard working hours.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a lab assistant in specimen processing, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with lab equipment; some positions may require certification or training in safety protocols. Prior experience in healthcare or laboratory settings can be advantageous.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and management responsibilities, with specialized skills in areas like clinical chemistry or molecular diagnostics contributing to higher pay.

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.

Is a specimen processor a good job?

A specimen processor is a vital role in laboratory settings, responsible for preparing and handling samples for testing. The job typically requires attention to detail, knowledge of lab procedures, and may involve working with specialized equipment; it often offers stable employment and opportunities for certification or advancement. Overall, it can be a good entry-level position for those interested in healthcare or laboratory work.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois? For Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Lab Specimen Processing jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Lab Specimen Processing job openings:
Lab Specimen Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processing job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 28% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,634 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Specimen Processing Supervisor

Specimen Processing Supervisor

Prime Healthcare

Evanston, IL

$48K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Prime Healthcare rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

636th of 876 rated healthcare providers

Job description

  • Department: Specialty Lab
  • Schedule: Full Time Days 8a-4:30p
  • Facility: Prime Healthcare St Francis Hospital
  • Location: Evanston, IL 60201

The Specimen Processing Supervisor is responsible for the day-to-day operational and technical supervision of the Specimen Processing (Pre-Analytical) section within the Core Laboratory.

This individual: 1) oversees high-volume specimen receipt, accessioning, labeling, processing, and distribution to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant handling of all specimens 2) ensures adherence to CLIA regulations, proper specimen integrity, and efficient workflow across multiple hospital sites and outreach clients 3) under the direction of the General Laboratory Manager, provides frontline leadership by coordinating daily operations, supervising staff, resolving pre-analytical issues, and supporting standardized processes across the health system.


EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING


1. BLS certification upon hire and maintain current, based on hospital requirements.
2. Minimum of three (3) years of clinical laboratory experience, required.
3. Minimum of one (1) year of previous supervisory/management/lead experience, preferred.


Saint Francis Hospital offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package that provides employees the flexibility to tailor benefits according to their individual needs. Our Total Rewards package includes, but is not limited to, paid time off, a 401K retirement plan, medical, dental, and vision coverage, tuition reimbursement, and many more voluntary benefit options. A reasonable compensation estimate for this role, which includes estimated wages, benefits, and other forms of compensation, is $48,505.60 to $65,291.20 on an annualized basis. The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire, in which a wide range of factors will be considered, including but not limited to, skillset, years of applicable experience, education, credentials and licensure.

The company is dedicated to empowering its staff with a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, allowing them the freedom to customize their benefits to fit their unique needs. Our abundant resources, programs, and voluntary options serve as a foundation for individual growth and well-being. Learn more here: https://www.primehealthcare.com/benefitsthatmattermost/


Full Time
Days

Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

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