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Lab Specimen Processor Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant Schedule: Shift: Wednesday-Saturday 3:00am - 11:30am; Sunday 5pm-1:30am The Lab ... Specimen receiving, triage, and routing * Receive, unpack, and process biological specimens in a ...

$60 - $80/hr

Performs specimen processing. * Computer Data Entry & Retrieval: Accessions specimens, enters ... May oversee lab assistants & non-registered techs to assure appropriate pre-analytic specimen ...

$60 - $80/hr

... specimen processing, test performance and for reporting test results. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS * Current or eligible for Montana State licensure as a Medical Technologist/Medical Lab Tech or the ...

New

Phlebotomist Float

Hartford, KY · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

... specimen collection, handling, processing, test analysis, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results. Will perform only those waived tests that are approved by Lab Director and ...

Phlebotomist Float

Hartford, KY · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

... specimen collection, handling, processing, test analysis, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results. Will perform only those waived tests that are approved by Lab Director and ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Specimen Processor information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$15

$19

How much do lab specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 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 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?

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.

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.

How to become a lab specimen processor for a lab?

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 samples 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 familiarity with laboratory information systems is often preferred.

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:

Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processor job openings in Kentucky as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,548 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Lab Assistant

Schedule: Shift: Wednesday-Saturday 3:00am - 11:30am; Sunday 5pm-1:30am

The Lab Assistant supports Reference Lab operations by receiving, accessioning, labeling, and preparing biological specimens for testing while ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures, quality requirements, and safety protocols. This role is responsible for timely unpacking, verification, and routing of specimens to appropriate laboratory departments, accurate data entry into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and appropriate handling, storage, and/or shipment of specimens. The position maintains clean, organized work areas and completes required logs and documentation to support compliance and traceability. The role also supports inventory activities, secondary equipment operation, and other lab operations tasks as assigned, executing responsibilities with minimal to no oversight.

Key Responsibilities

Accessioning & data integrity

  • Understand and follow laboratory SOPs, quality control processes, and safety rules.
  • Receive and accession specimens and requisitions (integrated and/or manual) against company targets.
  • Perform accurate data entry and order verification in the LIMS.
  • Organize work by matching computer orders with specimen labeling; verify specimen identification and labeling accuracy.

Specimen receiving, triage, and routing

  • Receive, unpack, and process biological specimens in a timely manner.
  • Route specimens by type to appropriate staging areas and transport samples to relevant departments with urgency.
  • Prepare specimens for testing across departments including (but not limited to) hematology, urinalysis, serology, chemistry, endocrinology, parasitology, cytology, and coagulation.
  • Centrifuge and stage specimens as required by workflow.

Specimen handling

  • Handle and store biological specimens in accordance with SOPs.
  • Prepare excess specimens for storage; organize and maintain specimen storage.
  • Resolve, document, and escalate problem specimens per SOP.

Equipment, workspace, and safety compliance

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory workspace and work surfaces.
  • Properly handle and dispose of medical and biohazardous waste in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
  • Participate in all required safety trainings; correctly use applicable safety equipment and PPE.
  • Operate and maintain secondary laboratory equipment including (but not limited to) centrifuges, pipettes, heating blocks, slide stainers.

Documentation, logs, and records

  • Consistently and properly complete laboratory logs (e.g., maintenance, environmental, cleaning) as required.
  • Maintain required records including (but not limited to) medical records, courier logs, and manifests.

Shipping, supplies, and inventory support

  • Prepare specimens for shipment to offsite testing facilities in accordance with regulatory standards, including DOT requirements.
  • Receive, store, and log laboratory and office supplies in designated locations.
  • Monitor and organize lab supplies to maintain appropriate inventory levels.

Training and continuous support

  • Understand and complete training modules set forth by Zoetis Reference Laboratories.
  • Assist and facilitate training of Lab Assistant duties and responsibilities as requested.
  • Perform ad-hoc projects or tasks as assigned by management/supervisor.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Minimum Education Requirement: High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ years in a clinical laboratory setting preferred
  • 1-2 years of data entry experience preferred
  • Medical background or experience with laboratory testing terminology (or strong aptitude to learn terminology) preferred

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Strong attention to detail; high accuracy in labeling and data entry
  • Excellent data entry and typing skills
  • Strong computer skills; ability to work within a Windows environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft platforms (Teams, Outlook, Word, etc.)
  • Team-oriented with strong collaboration skills
  • Organizational and time management skills; ability to handle multiple tasks/systems
  • Effective verbal and written communication, including listening skills
  • Ability to work productively and independently in a fast-paced environment with target productivity rates
  • Ability to complete tasks with minimal supervision
  • Fluency in English

Physical Position Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, and crouch
  • Ability to walk, sit, or stand for extended periods
  • Ability to use tools such as boxcutters
  • Ability to wear PPE for extended periods of time
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