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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Medical Lab Technician (MLT) The Medical Lab Technician (MLT) occupies a critical role in clinical ... Specimen Processing and Reporting: Process patient samples efficiently, perform authorized tests ...

East | Laboratory Scope of Position The East Clinical Laboratory encompasses specimen processing and testing services within the Department of Clinical Laboratories including client services and all ...

Lab Assistant I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$14.71/hr

Lab Assistant I - Chantilly, VA, Wednesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM Department: Clinical ... Identifies missing specimens to Specimen Processing. * Stores and prepares order for reagent and ...

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 ensures accurate specimen processing to maintain specimen integrity and verifies product and/or test components when processing.

$28.90 - $39.78/hr

May perform specimen collection, specimen processing and phlebotomy as applicable. What you will do ... Bachelors Degree, Medical Lab Technology/Clinical Lab Science or Related (Required) Experience * 2 ...

$28.90 - $39.78/hr

May perform specimen collection, specimen processing and phlebotomy as applicable. What you will do ... Bachelors Degree, Medical Lab Technology/Clinical Lab Science or Related (Required) Experience * 2 ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Specimen Processing information

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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Lab Specimen Processing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Lab Specimen Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processing job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Medical Lab Tech-Gretna-PRN -Nights

Centra Health

Gretna, VA • On-site

$21.15 - $31.72/hr

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Centra Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Medical Lab Technician (MLT)

The Medical Lab Technician (MLT) occupies a critical role in clinical diagnostics, ensuring that testing processes from specimen handling to result reporting are conducted with precision and adherence to laboratory protocols. The MLT is responsible for a suite of tasks that support the diagnosis and monitoring of patient health, operating within the scope of authority granted by the laboratory medical director and in line with their professional capabilities.

Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance and Quality: Employees are obligated to uphold strict compliance with all regulations and standards set by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA), College of American Pathologists (CAP), Occupational and Safety Health Administration (OSHA), The Joint Commission (TJC), and other regulatory bodies. This includes active participation in quality assurance initiatives and adherence to best practices in laboratory testing. Perform duties as assigned by the medical director.

Compliance: Employees must complete the necessary initial orientation and training, obtain, and maintain relevant certifications, participate annually in mandatory training, competency assessments, and consistently demonstrate satisfactory job-specific performance assessments on an ongoing basis.

Specimen Processing and Reporting: Process patient samples efficiently, perform authorized tests, and report results accurately, contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions.

Test Performance: Conduct only authorized tests, ensuring that each task aligns with the MLT's level of education, training, experience, and technical skills.

Procedure Compliance: Adhere strictly to the laboratory's standard operating procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, and reporting. Maintain comprehensive records of patient test outcomes.

Quality Control: Implement and document the laboratory's quality control protocols, including instrument calibrations and maintenance, ensuring consistent test accuracy and reliability.

Proficiency Testing: Maintain records demonstrating that proficiency testing samples are processed with the same rigor and accuracy as patient samples.

Corrective Action: Follow established policies for corrective action when test systems deviate from acceptable performance levels. Identify and rectify or report any issues that may impact test performance or results.

Problem Resolution: Detect and address problems that could negatively affect test performance. Escalate issues to the technical consultant, clinical consultant, or director when necessary.

Documentation: Keep detailed records of all corrective actions taken when test systems fall outside established specifications.

Other Duties: Perform any additional duties as assigned or requested, as the job specifications may be modified or updated at any time.

Qualifications

Education Minimum:

Associates degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution, or equivalent laboratory training and experience per CLIA regulations

Education Preferred:

None

Work Experience Minimum:

None

Work Experience Preferred:

1 year of experience as a MLT in an acute care hospital laboratory setting.

Licenses & Certification Minimum:

MLT certification from American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or American Medical Technologists (AMT) or obtained within one year of employment. Employees meeting CLIA regulations before April 24, 1995, do not require certification.

Licenses & Certification Preferred:

None

Job Info
  • Job Identification 20410
  • Job Category Laboratory
  • Locations 291 McBride Ln, Gretna, VA, 24557, US
  • Minimum Pay $21.15
  • Maximum Pay $31.72

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