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Lab Specimen Processor Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Detroit, MI

$18.75 - $25/hr

Prepares, processes, and ships laboratory samples to outside laboratories following IATA ... Maintains specimen integrity by using an aseptic technique, following protocol procedures ...

Effectively communicate with physicians and physician offices to resolve patient/specimen ... Must successfully pass a background check and drug screening as part of the hiring process What we ...

Effectively communicate with physicians and physician offices to resolve patient/specimen ... Must successfully pass a background check and drug screening as part of the hiring process What we ...

Lab Administration Hours per pay period:80 Schedule:6:00am to 2:30pm Position Summary: Performs all ... Performs proper specimen collection [blood and non-blood], including patient preparation, labeling ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Specimen Processor information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do lab specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processor in Detroit, MI is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.08 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 Detroit, MI?

For Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Lab Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Lab Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processor job openings in Detroit, MI as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,099 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

University of Michigan
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

$69K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


University Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Responsibilities*
To perform a variety of routine or specialized tests and procedures for use by physicians in diagnosis and treatment of patients in one or more areas of work, such as Clinical Core Laboratory, Transfusion Medicine, Histocompatibility, Flow Cytometry, Molecular Diagnostics, Cytogenetics, Point of Care, Microbiology, and other specialty departments.
Provide Clerical/Administrative Support
  1. Answer phone calls, monitor call list, make critical value calls, report results and document calls, as needed.
  2. Scan documents (scan requisitions and worksheets); organize and file test reports and documents, file slides.
  3. Identify and correct incorrect orders and specimen issues, which include duplicate tests, missing or incorrect samples, missing information, and unacceptable specimens.
  4. Communicate effectively with lab staff, clinicians, and other customers to meet customer service expectations and maintains patient confidentiality .
  5. Manage inventory, unpack shipments, stock lab supplies, and reconcile invoices.
  6. Assist lab leaders in development in technical procedures, protocols, and projects, as needed.

Accessioning, Specimen Processing and Distribution
  1. Accession and process samples with accuracy which includes specimen receiving, centrifuging, aliquoting, and evaluating specimens for suitability of testing.
  2. Prioritize and accurately distribute patient samples within the laboratory consistent with quality assurance goals.
  3. Access and navigate the Pathology Document Control System, Hospital Information System (HIS), and Laboratory Information System (LIS) to accession patient specimens, requesting additional information from appropriate resources.
  4. Assist in Problem solving (duplicate tests, missing samples, incorrect samples, and missing information); call on unacceptable specimens (clotted, hemolyzed, wrong container etc.).
  5. Work with other laboratory personnel to process patient casework with optimal efficiency and accuracy (e.g. basic sample preparation and setup of assays or loading automation lines).
  6. Assist medical staff by attending procedures (bone marrows procedures, interoperative surgery), as required.

Laboratory Support / Maintain and Operate Instruments for Waived, Moderate and High Complexity Testing Instruments.
  1. Perform and document daily maintenance as specified in instrument procedures.
  2. Analyze patient samples as specified in the instrument procedures.
  3. Enter test results into laboratory databases.
  4. Ensure continuous operation by monitoring the status of reagents, parts, and supplies.
  5. Monitor error codes and perform troubleshooting. Document problems, action taken and outcomes in instrument logbooks.
  6. Perform general lab upkeep such as cleaning, removing trash, washing/sterilizing lab ware dishes, taking and recording temperatures, refrigerator and freezer maintenance, handling biohazard and chemical waste Assist with media and reagent preparation.
  7. Maintain work area in a well-stocked, clean condition.

Perform Testing for Waived, Moderate, and High Complexity Tests
  1. Perform and document quality control and proficiency testing for waived, moderate, and high complexity tests. Act on out-of-range quality control values.
  2. Perform waived, moderate, and high complexity testing.
  3. Analyze patient samples and report test results consistent with accuracy and quality assurance goals of the laboratory into laboratory databases.
  4. Interpret test results for waived, moderate, and high complexity tests.

Other Duties
  1. Comply with departmental continuing education requirements.
  2. Provides instructions in laboratory technique, instrumentation, and application of procedures to students and new employees.
  3. Maintain competencies for all assigned sections.
  4. Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications*
In order to be considered for this position the applicant must have met or will have met all the required qualifications prior to the start date of employment.
  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or other biological science or an equivalent combination of education and demonstrated successful clinical experience.
  • Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist or Medical Technologist or eligibility for certification at the time of hire.
  • Specialized laboratories may accept a bachelor's degree in a biological science with certification eligibility specific to that laboratory.
  • Requires frequent standing, walking, sitting, hand pipetting for long periods of time and the ability to lift 25 lbs.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate medical terminology and technical procedures.
  • Demonstrated ability to identify and take appropriate actions with clinical results.
  • Demonstrated effective organizational skills within a lab setting.

Desired Qualifications*
Previous experience in Blood Banking is desirable.
Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world's most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
  • Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
  • 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Work Schedule
This full time, 40-hour position will be on the night shift, shift will be 4-10 hour shifts per week including every other weekend and requires rotating weekends, holidays and on-call with other staff as needed.
Additional Information
Working Conditions:
  1. Works with infectious disease and/or hazardous materials.
  2. May have exposure to noise from laboratory equipment and pneumatic tube system.

Union Affiliation
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the United Michigan Medicine Allied Professionals (UMMAP), which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
280452
Working Title
Medical Laboratory Scientist
Job Title
Medical Technologist
Work Location
Michigan Medicine - Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Nonexempt
Organizational Group
Um Hospital
Department
MM Pathology Blood Bank
Posting Begin/End Date
9/08/2026 - 9/30/2026
Salary
$69,846.40 - $101,379.20
Career Interest
Medical Technology
Pathology/Laboratory Services
Patient Care Services

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About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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