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Lab Specimen Processor Jobs in Nashville, TN (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Medical Lab Scientist The Medical Lab Scientist III performs advanced clinical ... with specimen processing and handling when needed to support overall laboratory operations.

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Lab Specimen Processor information

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$12

$16

$20

How much do lab specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processor in Nashville, TN is $16.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $16.59 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 Nashville, TN?

For Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Nashville, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Nashville, TN are hiring for Lab Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Nashville, TN with the most Lab Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processor job openings in Nashville, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,013 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

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Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


TriStar Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Experience the HCA Healthcare difference where colleagues are trusted, valued members of our healthcare team. Grow your career with an organization committed to delivering respectful, compassionate care, and where the unique and intrinsic worth of each individual is recognized. Submit your application for the opportunity below:Medical Lab TechnicianTriStar Centennial Medical Center

Benefits

TriStar Centennial Medical Center offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include:

  • Comprehensive medical coverage that covers many common services at no cost or for a low copay. Plans include prescription drug and behavioral health coverage as well as free telemedicine services and free AirMed medical transportation.
  • Additional options for dental and vision benefits, life and disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, supplemental health protection plans (accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity), auto and home insurance, identity theft protection, legal counseling, long-term care coverage, moving assistance, pet insurance and more.
  • Free counseling services and resources for emotional, physical and financial wellbeing
  • 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service)
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 10% off HCA Healthcare stock
  • Family support through fertility and family building benefits with Progyny and adoption assistance.
  • Referral services for child, elder and pet care, home and auto repair, event planning and more
  • Consumer discounts through Abenity and Consumer Discounts
  • Retirement readiness, rollover assistance services and preferred banking partnerships
  • Education assistance (tuition, student loan, certification support, dependent scholarships)
  • Colleague recognition program
  • Time Away From Work Program (paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence)
  • Employee Health Assistance Fund that offers free employee-only coverage to full-time and part-time colleagues based on income.

Learn more about Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

We are seeking a Medical Lab Technician for our team to ensure that we continue to provide all patients with high quality, efficient care. Did you get into our industry for these reasons? We are an amazing team that works hard to support each other and are seeking a phenomenal addition like you who feels patient care is as meaningful as we do. We want you to apply!

Job Summary and Qualifications

Medical Lab Technician 


The Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)utilizesskills and training to performtest of samplesof blood,urineand other body fluids to obtain informationutilizedin diagnosis and evaluation of patient medical status. Participates in Performance Improvement activities to assure continuous Quality Improvement. Maintains cultural awarenesswhen dealing with patients, visitors, co-workersand all other customers. Promotes a supportive, team-workoriented environment. Fulfills departmental responsibilities with the long-range plan, mission,visionand values of the facility. 


What you will do in this role:  


  • You will handle specimen processing,preanalyticinspection of specimens foridentificationand integrity. 


  • You will performvarious typesof laboratory test(s) on patient specimens,evaluatestest results, and report/enter/verify test results in Laboratory Information System. 


  • You will perform andevaluatesperiodic quality control per policy and procedure.  


  • You will evaluate new and/or modified procedures, reagents and instruments as directed bySectionCoordinator.  


  • Troubleshoots all instruments as directed by SectionCoordinator. 


  • Participates in hospital initiatives and in department goals set by the Laboratory Director and Manager 


What qualifications you will need:  


  • Associate degree; Graduatefroma NCCLS accredited Medical Technician program. 


  • Hospital laboratory experience preferred. 

TriStar Centennial Medical Center is a 740+ bed comprehensive facility. We offer medical and surgical programs. These include behavioral health and 24-hour emergency. These also include heart and vascular and imaging. These also include neurosciences, oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics, rehabilitation, sleep disorder, and women's services. We are an affiliate of TriStar Health. TriStar Centennial Medical Center is a 43-acre campus. We are home to TriStar Centennial Heart & Vascular Center. We are home to TriStar Centennial Women's Hospital. Our campus includes The Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at TriStar Centennial Medical Center, TriStar Centennial Advanced Joint Replacement Institute and TriStar Centennial Parthenon Pavilion.

HCA Healthcare has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute for ten consecutive years (2010-2019). In 2019, HCA Healthcare spent an estimated $3.7 billion in cost for the delivery of charitable care, uninsured discounts, and other uncompensated expenses.


"There is so much good to do in the world and so many different ways to do it."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.
HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

If you find this opportunity compelling, we encourage you to apply for our Medical Lab Technician opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be directly contacted by a member of our team. We are interviewing - apply today!

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.


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