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How much do lab specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

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 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
Client Office Phlebotomist-Full-time Days SD

Client Office Phlebotomist-Full-time Days SD

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.81/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Northwestern Medicine rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 381 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 870 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Company Description
At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?
Job Description
This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, phlebotomy position located at a client site in the Streeterville neighborhood in Chicago.
Previous OBGYN experience strongly preferred.
Must be able to work Monday 9am - 5pm; Tuesday 8am - 5pm; Wednesday 10am - 6pm; Thursday 8am - 4pm; Friday 9am - 3pm; may be required to work every 3rd Saturday 9am - 2:30pm.
The Phlebotomist reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
The Phlebotomist provides expert phlebotomy services and must demonstrate excellent customer service and communication skills. The phlebotomist must have the ability to function as part of a highly effective team that consistently puts "Patients First".
The Phlebotomist is responsible for venipuncture collection and 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/clerical duties and functions.
Responsibilities:
  • Performs phlebotomy and other lab specimen collections per age related standards and in accordance with departmental policies, protocols and procedures.
  • Demonstrates AIDET model and optimizes patient safety to reduce the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
  • Receives and reviews physician orders; ensures that all necessary information is included for appropriate lab services. Enters accurate orders for lab tests in accordance with department policies, protocols and procedures.
  • patient communication model and provides appropriate post-phlebotomy patient care.
  • Processes specimens in a timely manner to ensure stability and integrity of samples including: labeling, centrifuging, aliquoting, freezing and packaging specimens for transport in accordance with established protocols and policies.
  • Reviews/Records refrigerator temperature(s) and QC/QA records. Areas of concern are recorded through the Corrective Action Log and reported to maintenance for repair. Findings are reported to supervisor or manager.
  • Understands the operation and maintenance of equipment pertinent to the job. Follows up with all outstanding orders on manifest log, and communicates all timed, completed or uncompleted draws/charges/results as appropriate
  • Communicates and notifies Laboratory and/or Physician of problems with specimen procurement for optimal care
  • Maintains a safe work environment, holds self-accountable for safe work practices; including adhering to biohazard waste procedures and ensuring proper storage and timely pickup of biohazardous waste.
  • Performs lab-related clerical duties include but not limited to order entry, verification of test result receipt, patient information retrieval as well as utilization of email, medical record systems, handheld and desktop devices, ordering and maintaining supply inventory, filing and sanitizing equipment as necessary
  • Uses department's resources efficiently; participates in efforts to reduce costs and streamline work processes.
  • Adheres to continuing education expectations; completes and signs-off on competency assessments
  • Demonstrates the value of teamwork on a consistent basis; interacts with and assists others in a professional manner
  • Applies critical thinking, sound decision making and judgment to investigate and resolve challenging situations
  • Complies with all organizational policies regarding ethical business practices.
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Required:
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Phlebotomy certification through a nationally recognized organization or training from a phlebotomy school or medical institution or one or more years of phlebotomy experience in a healthcare setting or CMA certification.

Preferred:
  • Experience performing phlebotomy on a broad range of patient's types.
  • Experience with processing lab specimens, transferring specimens, and handling a centrifuge.
  • Familiar with medical EMR systems.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology.

Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.

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