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Lab Specimen Processor Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Owensboro Health

Phlebotomy Supervisor I

Owensboro, KY · On-site

... specimen procurement, specimen processing, specimen testing, answering telephones, typing ... Monitors turnaround by phlebotomists and lab assistants. * Ensures phlebotomy service personnel ...

Owensborohealth

Phlebotomy Supervisor I

Owensboro, KY · On-site

... specimen procurement, specimen processing, specimen testing, answering telephones, typing ... Monitors turnaround by phlebotomists and lab assistants. * Ensures phlebotomy service personnel ...

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All JobsLab Specimen Processor JobsLab Specimen Processor Jobs in Kentucky

Lab Specimen Processor information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$15

$19

How much do lab specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processor in Kentucky is $15.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $15.87 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 is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying roles are often senior scientists, laboratory managers, or specialized pathologists, depending on the industry and level of experience. These positions typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive expertise, and they often involve leadership responsibilities and complex technical skills.

What do lab specimen processors do?

Lab specimen processors are responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for testing. They follow strict safety and quality protocols, often using laboratory equipment and computer systems to track specimens throughout the testing process.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab specimen processor, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, and some positions may prefer post-secondary education or training in biology, chemistry, or related fields. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important, and certifications such as OSHA training can be beneficial.

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 must be detail-oriented with good organizational skills. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with laboratory procedures and safety protocols is beneficial; some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory equipment or certifications in phlebotomy or laboratory safety.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Kentucky? For Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Lab Specimen Processor jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Lab Specimen Processor job openings:
Lab Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processor job openings in Kentucky as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,548 per year, or $15.6 per hour.
Central Processing Specialist I

Central Processing Specialist I

St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Edgewood, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

St. Elizabeth Healthcare rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 123 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

632nd of 870 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Engage with us for your next career opportunity. Right Here.
Job Type:
Regular
Scheduled Hours:
40
💙 Why You'll Love Working with St. Elizabeth Healthcare
At St. Elizabeth Healthcare, every role supports our mission to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to the communities we serve. For more than 160 years, St. Elizabeth Healthcare has been a trusted provider of quality care across Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. We're guided by our mission to improve the health of the communities we serve and by our values of excellence, integrity, compassion, and teamwork. Our associates are the heart of everything we do.
🌟 Benefits That Support You
We invest in you - personally and professionally.
Enjoy:
- Competitive pay and comprehensive health coverage within the first 30 days.
- Generous paid time off and flexible work schedules
- Retirement savings with employer match
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
- Wellness, mental health, and recognition programs
- Career advancement through mentorship and internal mobility
Job Summary:
Perform a variety of duties in order to register, order, receive and process laboratory specimens in an accurate and timely manner, assuring correct billing by the SEH Billing Department.
Demonstrate respect, dignity, kindness and empathy in each encounter with all patients, families, visitors and other employees regardless of cultural background.
Job Description:
Order/Registration
  • Performs accurate and complete registration on all patient/accounts. Assures 100% accuracy in identifying correct patient in EPIC. Demonstrates knowledge of guarantor assignment, payer information, assigning correct provider, billing indicator and if applicable, correct client information. Scans all pertinent documents. Maintains Registration Error and Demographic Work Queue.
  • Accurately places and releases all orders in EPIC and/or the LIS. Resolves all test selection issues to assure quality and timely results.

Customer Service & Support
  • Provide support to clients, draw locations and technical departments in a courteous and respectful manner to assure delivery of quality service.
  • Takes all necessary steps to resolve issues that could prevent or delay completion of testing and lab processes in the best interest of the patient and client. Always safeguards confidential matters.
  • Receives and disseminates messages regarding specimen pickup, patient blood draws, test orders, processing and results for the laboratory system.
  • Handles communication with physicians, healthcare providers, laboratory leadership and staff, patients, patient families and visitors. Provides information on test and specimen requirements and lab processes.
  • Responsible for completion of all call-back queues and meeting the required response times. Manages add-on tests. Provides documentation of issues and resolutions information to OSCPII as part of the Laboratory Quality program.
  • Uses and maintains a variety of office equipment such as fax machines, telephones, paging/tracking systems, printers, copiers and computers for the access and distribution of information including laboratory results and laboratory services.

Receiving & Labeling of Specimens
  • Receives and labels all specimens into the LIS. Assures 100% correct labeling of all specimens. Follows all safety protocols and procedures when handling blood and other potentially infectious specimens.
  • Accurately completes all Transfer lists.
  • Monitor's list of incoming specimens for anomalies and follows up on items in question.

Sorting & Distribution of Specimens
  • Sorts all specimens upon arrival. Assures correct sorting for registration and receiving. Always maintains specimen integrity.
  • Delivers all specimens to the correct testing location in a timely manner. Assures that all specimens are maintained properly during processing and delivery.

Testing & Specimen Collection
  • Demonstrates understanding of test and specimen requirements. Seeks assistance from technical staff and reference material when necessary.

Other Duties as Assigned
Education, Credentials, Licenses:
  • High School Graduate

Specialized Knowledge:
  • Keyboard/Data entry skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Minimum 1-year clerical experience
  • Data Entry Skills above 100 Net Keystrokes/min

FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt
Right Career. Right Here. If you're looking for the right careers in healthcare, the right place to be is at St. Elizabeth. Join us, and you'll take pride in the level of care we offer our community.

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