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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Specimen Processing information

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How much do lab specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processing in Houston, TX is $16.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $17.21 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 job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processing jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Lab Specimen Processing jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Lab Specimen Processing job openings:
Medical Laboratory Scientist - Specimen Processing - PT 20 hours - M-Th 4:30pm - 9:30pm

Medical Laboratory Scientist - Specimen Processing - PT 20 hours - M-Th 4:30pm - 9:30pm

MD Anderson

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


MD Anderson Cancer Center rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 168 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

**This is a part-time 20 hours Monday through Thursday 4:30pm -9:30pm or 4pm - 9pm** The Specimen Processing department at MD Anderson Cancer Center serves as a critical gateway for laboratory testing across the institution. This team ensures specimens are properly received, processed, tracked, and routed, helping maintain the integrity of testing processes that directly support patient diagnosis, treatment decisions, and outcomes. As a central hub within Laboratory Medicine, Specimen Processing plays a vital role in ensuring timely and accurate laboratory services throughout the cancer center.

This Medical Laboratory Scientist position offers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment that supports multiple laboratory disciplines. In addition to specimen processing responsibilities, this role provides opportunities to serve as a technical resource, support Point of Care Testing initiatives, and contribute to quality and operational excellence across the laboratory enterprise. In this role, you will perform laboratory testing and operational activities while ensuring compliance with established policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

You will monitor quality control processes, troubleshoot laboratory equipment, support validation of new methodologies and systems, and help maintain efficient inventory management practices. Strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritize workload effectively are essential to maintaining the accuracy and efficiency of laboratory operations. A unique aspect of this position is the opportunity to function in a technical leadership capacity, supporting Point of Care Testing programs through staff training, competency assessments, validation activities, and consultation.

You will work closely with nurses, physicians, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure compliance with testing standards and promote high-quality patient care throughout the institution. You will also contribute to process improvement and staff development initiatives, helping implement new technologies, validate software and testing systems, and mentor students and employees. Success in this role requires strong communication skills, customer service focus, and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will possess strong laboratory knowledge, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic environment where accuracy, efficiency, and teamwork are critical. Candidates who enjoy balancing technical responsibilities, education, and operational support will find significant opportunities for growth and impact within this role. MD Anderson offers a comprehensive total rewards package, including paid medical benefits, generous paid time off, retirement plans, tuition assistance, professional development opportunities, and additional benefits, along with the opportunity to build a rewarding career within a world-renowned cancer center dedicated to excellence in patient care, research, and innovation.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES Performs all laboratory testing specific to the assigned section. - Remains knowledgeable and competent for all policies, procedures and protocols. - Ensures and verifies quality control data is appropriate for the complexity of the reported tests.

- Troubleshoots and maintains laboratory equipment. - Validates and evaluates new methodologies and tests. sets up connectivity with the help of technical support.

- Follows section's inventory control system to assure effective use of supplies and reagents. - Demonstrates ability to perform all duties of the technical supervisor (or designee) as described in LMPROC 4160 Personnel POCT Laboratory Policy Standards. - Completes, verifies and reports testing in a timely manner - Complies with safety guidelines and procedures and adheres to regulatory mandates.

- Remains responsible and accountable for all actions. Enhances productivity and laboratory lab functions by demonstrating dependability. - Adjusts, prioritizes, and organizes work to achieve maximum productivity to meet the workload demands of the section.

- Assists peers and supervisors with tasks after completion of assigned work. - Adheres to attendance policy, begins work as scheduled. - Works independently, utilizes resources available to maximize efficiency.

Assists in the development of laboratory personnel and tests - Accurately trains and competency checks nurses, OR staff, physicians, respiratory techs and other staff requiring the need to perform Point of Care Testing. - Participates in process improvement projects. - Validates database for new software or new tests implemented in the laboratory.

- Coaches and mentors' students and employees. Customer Service - Manages all customer service interactions with diplomacy, actively facilitating resolutions to problems. Computer Skills - Maintains proficiency in computer functions in the lab processes.

- Properly acquires specimen data into computer system(s). - Analyzes and evaluates patient results correctly and appropriately. - Stores patient information and results to allow easy future access as required.

Required: Associate's Degree in Laboratory Science or Medical Laboratory Technology OR Bachelor's Degree in a related science field or Molecular Genetic Technology OR Successful completion of a National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) accredited Clinical Laboratory Science/Molecular Genetic Technology accredited program Required Experience: 2 years of clinical laboratory experience with an Associate's Degree in Laboratory Science or Medical Laboratory Technology 1 year of clinical laboratory experience with a Bachelor's Degree in a related science field No experience required with completion of a NAACLS-accredited Clinical Laboratory Science/Molecular Genetic Technology accredited program Preferred: ASCP - American Society of Clinical Pathologist Technologist/Scientist/Specialist certification OR CHS - Certified Histocompatibility Specialist, American College of Histocompatibility & Immunogenetics (ACHI) OR CHT - Certified Histocompatibility Technologist, American College of Histocompatibility & Immunogenetics (ACHI) OR MDT - Molecular Diagnostics Tech, American Medical The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition. This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html Additional Information Requisition ID: 181239 Employment Status: Part-Time Benefits Eligible Employee Status: Regular Work Week: Evenings Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 67,000 Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 83,500 Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 100,000 FLSA: non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay Fund Type: Hard Work Location: Onsite Pivotal Position: Yes Referral Bonus Available?: Yes Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes #LI-Onsite Apply


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