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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

UPMC Senior Communities

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$19.20 - $30.08/hr

UPMC Presbyterian is hiring a casual (per diem) Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab! This role will work afternoon shifts (3 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.), with rotating weekend and holiday ...

UPMC Senior Communities

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$19.20 - $30.08/hr

UPMC Presbyterian is hiring a full-time Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab! This role will work evening shifts (8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.), with rotating weekend and holiday ...

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Lab Specimen Processing information

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$11

$17

$24

How much do lab specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processing in Pennsylvania is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a lab specimen processing specialist?

To become a lab specimen processing specialist, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and familiarity with specimen handling; some positions may require certification or on-the-job training. Experience in healthcare or laboratory settings can improve job prospects.

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 Pennsylvania? For Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Lab Specimen Processing jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Lab Specimen Processing job openings:
Lab Specimen Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processing job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,827 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Specimen Processing Specialist

St. Clair Health

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

St. Clair Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

492nd of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Summary
Performs patient/specimen identification, collects blood and non-blood and performs specialized procedures specific to the age of the patient; performs computer functions to support laboratory, Hospital, reference lab and registration systems. Processes reference testing and handles internal and external customer communications regarding reference testing.
Minimum Qualifications

  1. High school graduate or equivalent.
  2. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  3. Completion of an approved phlebotomy training and 1 year of clinical laboratory experience.
Preferred Qualifications
  1. Completion of a Medical Assistant Program
  2. 3 year of clinical laboratory experience.
  3. Proficient with Sunquest laboratory information system.

What St. Clair Health employees say

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About St. Clair Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

St. Clair Hospital is a highly honored, independent, 329 bed acute-care medical center that provides advanced, high quality health care to the residents of southwestern Pennsylvania. A member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, St. Clair has 600 physicians and 2,500 employees. St. Clair Hospital is the largest employer in Pittsburgh’s South Hills. Providing virtually every health care service that residents may need throughout their lives, the Hospital is focused on continuously enhancing its services and technologies to ensure that the community’s health needs are met. The Hospital offers a comprehensive array of high-quality inpatient and outpatient services, including advanced cardiovascular services; specialized care for women and children; oncology services; orthopedics; emergency care; urgent care; and psychiatry and mental health services.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1954

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