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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

UPMC Presbyterian

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA

$16 - $18.50/hr

UPMCPresbyterian is hiringa full-timeSpecimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab! This ... The Specimen Processor role is the gatekeeper for all specimens that come to the laboratory for ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$15 - $20.75/hr

Duties will include human biological specimen processing and preparation for sample storage, wet lab activities to assist with immunoassay procedures, and assistance with data entry and data analysis.

Main Line Health

Clinical Lab Scientist BB

Media, PA · On-site

Could you be our next Clinical Lab Scientist BB at Riddle Hospital? This position is eligible for a ... including specimen processing, test performance and reporting test results. 2. Demonstrated ...

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All JobsLab Specimen Processing JobsLab Specimen Processing Jobs in Pennsylvania

Lab Specimen Processing information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do lab specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,827 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Specimen Coordinator and Processor

Specimen Coordinator and Processor

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

$16.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Children's Hospital Of Philadelphia rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 1,020 rated hospitals

Job description

SHIFT:

Day (United States of America)

Seeking Breakthrough Makers
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) offers countless ways to change lives. Our diverse community of more than 20,000 Breakthrough Makers will inspire you to pursue passions, develop expertise, and drive innovation.
At CHOP, your experience is valued; your voice is heard; and your contributions make a difference for patients and families. Join us as we build on our promise to advance pediatric care—and your career.
CHOP’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
CHOP is committed to building an inclusive culture where employees feel a sense of belonging, connection, and community within their workplace. We are a team dedicated to fostering an environment that allows for all to be their authentic selves. We are focused on attracting, cultivating, and retaining diverse talent who can help us deliver on our mission to be a world leader in the advancement of healthcare for children.
We strongly encourage all candidates of diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.
A Brief Overview
The Specimen Coordinator and Processor is responsible for the efficient and accurate management of biological specimens collected through the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO), a longitudinal study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and led by Drs. Heather Burris and Sara DeMauro (Division of Neonatology) that seeks to gain better insight into the effects of biological, chemical, and physical exposures; social and behavioral factors; and built and natural environments on child health and development. This role will play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and integrity of these samples, which may be used to study disease, detect exposures to metals or chemicals, understand stress and diet, and advance medical research. This role will primarily focus on processing biological specimens (including urine, stool, blood, hair, saliva, and semen) in support of the ECHO study. Candidates with sample processing and industry experience are encouraged to apply.
What you will do

  • Specimen Coordination:

  • Point person for picking up samples from the hospital and clinic.
  • Ensure proper labeling, packaging, and transportation of specimens according to established protocols.
  • Shipping samples for industry sponsored clinical trials.

  • Sample Processing:

  • Process samples using various techniques, including centrifugation, Ficoll, aliquoting, and freezing.
  • Ensure the integrity of samples throughout the processing procedure

  • Sample Storage:

  • Oversee the storage and management of specimens in appropriate conditions, such as cryogenic storage.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of specimen storage using a LIMS

Education Qualifications

  • High School Diploma / GED Required
  • Bachelor's Degree Preferred

Experience Qualifications

  • At least two (2) years of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (eg. Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience Required
  • At least three (3) years of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (eg. Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience Preferred

Skills and Abilities

  • Advanced understanding of lab procedures, protocols, and equipment.
  • Intermediate proficiency with lab specific experiments / techniques.
  • Intermediate scientific analysis skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Strong critical thinking / problem-solving skills
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Specimen processing


To carry out its mission, CHOP is committed to supporting the health of our patients, families, workforce, and global community. As a condition of employment, CHOP employees who work in patient care buildings or who have patient facing responsibilities must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive an annual influenza vaccine. Learn more.
Employees may request exemptions for valid religious and medical reasons. Start dates may be delayed until candidates are immunized or exemption requests are reviewed.
EEO / VEVRAA Federal Contractor | Tobacco Statement

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About Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is a renowned healthcare institution dedicated to the welfare of children. Established in 1855 and situated in the heart of Philadelphia, PA, US, it's known primarily for pediatric healthcare services, pioneering new treatments, and conducting notable research in child-related medical disciplines. As an industry trailblazer, CHOP has a well-established reputation in the pediatric healthcare sector and is recognized globally for its innovative approach towards advancing children's healthcare.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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