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Lab Specimen Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Specimen processing experience including esoteric reference lab specimen handling and packaging, preferred * Phlebotomy experience and/or knowledge of laboratory tests and /or laboratory ordering ...

Lab Assistant/Specimen Processor

Medford, OR · On-site

$19.27 - $26.50/hr

Specimen processing experience including esoteric reference lab specimen handling and packaging, preferred * Phlebotomy experience and/or knowledge of laboratory tests and /or laboratory ordering ...

Specimen Processing

Lewisville, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

:: Specimen Processing Duration : 3 month Shift :: Tuesday-Saturday; 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Location ... lab accidents to clients within 24 hours of notification. Document thoroughly; elevate issues of ...

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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 the United States is $17.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.03 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.
More about Lab Specimen Processing jobs
What cities are hiring for Lab Specimen Processing jobs? Cities with the most Lab Specimen Processing job openings:
What states have the most Lab Specimen Processing jobs? States with the most job openings for Lab Specimen Processing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,742 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

$15.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


University Of Kansas Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 177 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Title
Specimen Processing TechnicianEvenings - Full TimeBell HospitalPosition Summary / Career Interest:Tuesday - Saturday 2:30pm - 11:30pm
The Specimen Processing Technician is a position within the clinical laboratory and microbiology that is responsible for managing specimens once they arrive in the department and handling multiple pre-analytical variables. Depending on the area of the lab, this may include, but are not limited to: positive patient identification, correct tube types, specimen conditions and integrity and how they affect laboratory results. The Specimen Processing Technician accepts samples in the laboratory and performs tasks including releasing orders out of the Hospital Information System (HIS), receiving specimens in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), and processing specimens to include aliquoting and preparation for the automation line. The specimen Processing Technician troubleshoots specimen and order issues and communicates with care providers across the Health System. The Specimen Processing Technician working in Microbiology is responsible for performing pre-analytic functions such as: specimen receipt, sterile processing, specimen manipulation including sonication and tissue grinding, determination of appropriate culture media for different specimen types and plating. The Specimen Processing Technician follows regulatory, accreditation, safety and hospital standards, policies and procedures, and participates in quality assurance and quality improvement activities.Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions
  • Creates Registration encounters, releases orders out of HIS when indicated; receives samples in LIS; prints barcode labels and affixes labels to specimens.
  • Completes order entry functions or paperwork as required. Ensures proper container type, centrifugation, specimen sterility, and transport conditions for specimens.
  • Ensures positive patient identification, correct specimen collection and handling/transport; performs specimen processing duties and prioritizes based on urgency
  • Ensures the specimen and orders received are appropriate for requested testing. Prioritizes specimens based on clinical urgency. - Performs specimen processing duties including but not limited to: aliquoting urine and body fluid samples, supply storage, Kanban supply, inventory monitoring and storing patient samples appropriately.
  • In Microbiology, uses sterile techniques to handle, manipulate, and inoculate specimens on to culture media, including but not limited to determination of selecting the correct culture media based on specimen, order and protocols, sterile aliquoting, sonification and tissue grinding.
  • Assists in pathology specimen preservation, by adding formalin to specimens, and/or paging residents or providers as needed.
  • Fields inquiries and communicates information in written and verbal formats. Answers the phone and provides customer service to internal and external customers following established standards.
  • Consults Specimen Processing Coordinator, supervisor or lab leadership when appropriate.
  • Assists other staff with processing questions or automation line issues.
  • Assists with training new hires, students, or medical students, if applicable.
  • Disposes of bio-hazardous materials, chemical waste, sharps and other potentially hazardous materials according to policy and strictly adheres to safety and infection control procedures. Uses and wears PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as necessary to perform job duties safely and minimize risk.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
  • These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Required Education and Experience
  • High School Graduate
  • 6 months of experience in a clinical laboratory - working with biological specimens

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Completion of a Phlebotomy program
  • 1 or more years of experience in specimen collection and processing.

Required Licensure and Certification
  • If required by position to be filled, must obtain Department of Transportation and International Air Transportation Association certification within 180 Days

Time Type:Full timeJob Requisition ID:R-55402Important information for you to know as you apply:
  • The health system is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected status. See also Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

  • The health system provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need to request reasonable accommodations for your disability as you navigate the recruitment process, please let our recruiters know by requesting an Accommodation Request form using this link asktalentacquisition@kumc.edu.

  • Employment with the health system is contingent upon, among other things, agreeing to the health-system-dispute-resolution-program.pdf and signing the agreement to the DRP.

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About University of Kansas Health System

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Operating within the healthcare industry, The University of Kansas Health System is a renowned medical institution located in Kansas City, KS, United States. Established in 1905, this not-for-profit health system has evolved to offer an extensive range of products and services, which spans across a variety of specialist areas such as cancer care, neurology, cardiology, and organ transplants, among others. The core mission of The University of Kansas Health System is to enhance the health and wellness of individuals and communities by providing world-class healthcare services, quality education and conducting advanced research. They are also known for their unwavering commitment to academic medicine, which sets them apart from their peers.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, KS, US