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Lab Specimen Processor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Lab Assistant FT Days

Mason City, IA · On-site

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

Trinityhealth

Lab Assistant FT Days

Mason City, IA · On-site

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

Trinity Health

Lab Assistant FT Days

Mason City, IA

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you will support a variety of laboratory departments by assisting ... Performs specimen processing such as proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, slide ...

UnityPoint Health

Medical Lab Tech

Fort Dodge, IA

... Lab Technician where every test, specimen, and result plays a vital role in patient care. In this ... specimen processing, no two days are ever the same. We're looking for someone who thrives on ...

UnityPoint Health

Medical Lab Tech

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

... Lab Technician where every test, specimen, and result plays a vital role in patient care. In this ... specimen processing, no two days are ever the same. We're looking for someone who thrives on ...

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Lab Specimen Processor information

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How much do lab specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processor in Iowa is $16.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab Specimen Processor vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Specimen ProcessorLab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on specimen handlingAssociate degree or certification; more technical training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, focusing on specimen preparationLaboratory, often performing tests and analyses
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic facilities
Common TasksReceiving, labeling, and processing specimensPerforming tests, recording results, maintaining equipment

While both roles work in laboratory environments, Lab Specimen Processors primarily handle specimen preparation and labeling, whereas Lab Technicians perform testing and analysis. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does a Lab Specimen Processor do?

A Lab Specimen Processor is responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for laboratory testing. They ensure specimens are properly identified and handled according to strict protocols to maintain accuracy and prevent contamination. Their work is essential in supporting laboratory technicians and medical staff, as timely and accurate processing of specimens directly affects test results and patient care. Lab Specimen Processors may also enter data into laboratory information systems and maintain sample storage areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, organizational skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring laboratory experience or relevant coursework. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and safe specimen handling protocols is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate specimen processing, minimize errors, and support the timely delivery of laboratory results crucial for patient care.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Specimen Processors and how can they be managed?

Lab Specimen Processors often deal with high volumes of specimens, strict turnaround times, and the need to ensure accuracy when labeling and handling samples. Managing these challenges requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with both laboratory staff and healthcare providers. Developing a methodical workflow, double-checking specimen information, and staying current with safety protocols can help prevent errors and maintain a smooth operation, even during busy periods.

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, organizational skills, and the ability to handle biological materials safely. Some positions may require training on laboratory procedures and equipment, which is often provided on the job. Certification is not usually mandatory but can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa? For Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lab Specimen Processor jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Lab Specimen Processor job openings:
Lab Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processor job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 52% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,199 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Lab Support Technician- Downtown

Lab Support Technician- Downtown

UnityPoint Health

Sioux City, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 350 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

332nd of 865 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Unity Point St. Luke's- Downtown

Full Time, Days

8am-4:30p, rotate every third weekend.

Interfaces the laboratory to its Reference Laboratory and Hospital Customers by performing complex reference laboratory patient registrations as well as registrations for hospital laboratory outpatients, in both the Hospital Information System as well as in the Laboratory Information System.  Determines Reference Laboratory billing based on numerous location codes for each facility.  Orders all testing for the hospital laboratory in the Laboratory Information System, receives electronic orders and completes appropriately, and determines and validates medical necessity of all lab orders in addition to obtaining appropriate diagnoses from providers.  Verifies the integrity of Reference Lab outreach shipments, performs specimen processing and communicates with Outreach Reference Clients and various hospital departments.  Communicates specimen deliveries with laboratory couriers, communicates and distributes test results to providers, clients, and patients, performs manual charge entry and performs support functions for the pathologists, including medical examiner requests. 


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.


Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options focused on your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.Here are just a few:


• Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.
• Dental, health and vision insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
• Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.

Join our team of experts and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


  • Provides specimen processing for reference laboratory outreach patient testing, and initiates inpatient processing, requiring handling of patient specimens.  
  • Assists lab outpatients in the collection process of specimens for testing.  
  • Monitors patients during more complex lab test procedures and patients being held for provider notification of test results.  
  • Uses the Lab and Mayo On-line test catalogs to ensure that the correct tests are ordered for providers and patients.    
  • Assists patients in the completion of Authorizations prior to release of test information.  
  • Initiates and resolves the problem patient specimen resolution process for the laboratory.    
  • Communicates and interacts with patients and their families, with compassion and empathy, both on the phone and at the lab department.  
  • Informs patients of potential denial by insurance, estimates appropriate costs and obtains appropriate ABN or Insurance Waiver according to insurance.  Adds modifiers and account notes as appropriate per regulations.  
  • Completes daily quality audits of the patient lab record. 

Education:  

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.  
  • Associate’s degree preferred. 

Experience:  

  • One (1) year of work experience required.  
  • Proficiency with Computer data entry functions required.  
  • Experience in lab registration, order entry and specimen processing as well as experience with medical necessity requirements preferred.  

License(s)/Certification(s):  

  • If designated to drive will be required to obtain OSHA Bio-Hazard Certification prior to transporting and maintain annually. 
  • Valid driver’s license when driving any vehicle for work-related reason required. 

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995

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