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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Processor

Winfield, IL · On-site

$18 - $23.98/hr

The Hospital Specimen Preparation Technician (HSPT) is responsible for daily preparation of patient ... Communicates and collaborates effectively with the Hospital Lab Manager, as well as the Quest ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Processor

Urbana, IL · On-site

$17.20 - $22.34/hr

The Hospital Specimen Preparation Technician (HSPT) is responsible for daily preparation of patient ... Communicates and collaborates effectively with the Hospital Lab Manager, as well as the Quest ...

Sarahbush

$17.79/hr

Lab Assistant Processing Lab Assistant - Processing ensures proper receipt of specimens and ... specimen bags and verifies physician orders., Receives all specimens from laboratory couriers ...

Sarah Bush Lincoln

Lab Assistant Processing

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$16.94/hr

Lab Assistant Processing Lab Assistant - Processing ensures proper receipt of specimens and ... specimen bags and verifies physician orders. , Receives all specimens from laboratory couriers ...

Delnor Hospital

Phlebotomist-Part-time Days

Geneva, IL

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

... specimen processing. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to order entry in multiple systems, verification of test result receipt, patient information retrieval and lab reception ...

Kishwaukee Hospital

Phlebotomist-Full-time Nights

Dekalb, IL

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

... specimen processing. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to order entry in multiple systems, verification of test result receipt, patient information retrieval and lab reception ...

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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 Processor

Specimen Processor

Quest Diagnostics

Winfield, IL • On-site

$18 - $23.98/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

ExamOne rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.

Benefits Information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects – physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30 hours.
  • Best-in-class well-being programs.
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program.
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off.
  • FinFit financial coaching and services.
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
  • Employee stock purchase plan.
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts.
  • Annual incentive plans.
  • Matching gifts program.
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
  • Career advancement opportunities.
  • And so much more!

The Hospital Specimen Preparation Technician (HSPT)  is responsible for daily preparation of patient specimens from hospital clients.  The HSPT must demonstrate a mastery of all functions of specimen preparation for submission to multiple Quest Diagnostics facilities, as well as Rapid Response Laboratories (RRL).  The HSPT works with minimal direction. Additionally, since many changes do occur from day to day, great flexibility on the part of the HSPT is required.  The majority of  HSPT work is on the day shift, but flexibility is required for weekends, holidays, on-call, and overtime based on client requirements. 

Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for preparation of patient specimens for hospital clients and pick up by couriers.  
  • Responsible for positive daily client interactions representing Quest Diagnostics to the customer (face-to-face and/or telephone).  
  • Prepares and arranges all stat testing needs, research pending results, alerts Hospital IT to communication failures, accepts and troubleshoots incoming calls to the Hospital Lab from Quest Diagnostics facilities.   
  • Demonstrates excellent proficiency in test ordering policies, procedures, specimen requirements for test ordering, sample preparation, Care 360 and compliance/legal requirements.  
  • Troubleshoots and problem solves client issues related to area of responsibility.  
  • Communicates and collaborates effectively with the Hospital Lab Manager, as well as the Quest Diagnostics sales team and other functions in the organization.   
  • Relays client concerns to Quest Diagnostics supervisor and sales. Participates in sales/operations review of account.    
  • Communicates information regarding problem-solving with specimens, test cancellations, testing requirements, billing requirements with various hospital staff, such as phlebotomy, outpatient draw centers, laboratory managers, department supervisors, Hospital IT Analysts, physicians, nurses, and pathologists.  
  • Develops understanding of the company processes, as well as the client expectations.  
  • Develops understanding of the compliance policies related to test ordering. 
  • Researches test ordering information on translation tables, computer systems, and the directory of services.  
  • Understands the complex relationship between test(s) ordered and specimen received.  
  • Completes all required written documentation, legibly and within the assigned timeframe  
  • Performs other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications:
Preferred Work Experience: 
  • Medical background which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory.  
  • Previous laboratory, customer service or hospital experience

For a full list of Quest Diagnostics careers, please visit:
Quest Diagnostics Careers 

Skills:  
The position requires demonstrated data entry skills to effectively utilize both the Quest Diagnostics system and the hospital client systems. 

Organization Description
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.