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Lab Specimen Processor Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Duties will include maintaining the integrity of the collection process, maintaining records for ... Utilize Electronic Lab Requisitions (ELR) "FLUID" for sample submissions * Answer questions from ...

New

Lab Assistant I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$14.71/hr

Lab Assistant I - Chantilly, VA, Wednesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM Department: Clinical ... Identifies missing specimens to Specimen Processing. * Stores and prepares order for reagent and ...

Lab Technician (Overnight Shift)

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Summary The Lab Technician may support a range of laboratory functions including but not limited to ... Follow established standard operating procedures for specimen handling, processing, test analysis ...

Assists with performing specimen analysis, instrument maintenance, and quality control procedures ... Processes incoming orders for lab testing. Processes in-house and in-coming results for charting.

Showing results 21-40

Lab Specimen Processor information

See Washington, DC salary details

$15

$20

$25

How much do lab specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab specimen processor in Washington, DC is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $20.67 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?

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 job categories do people searching Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Specimen Processor jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Lab Specimen Processor job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,429 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Laboratory Technician

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

Glen Burnie, MD • On-site

$22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


IDEXX Laboratories rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

As Laboratory Technician at IDEXX, you perform laboratory testing that helps veterinarians diagnose and treat pets. You will be a key contributor at one of the largest veterinary diagnostic companies in the world, joining a fast-paced work environment that encourages teamwork, quality, and offers opportunities for personal growth.
We offer extensive training for this role so, whether you've worked in a lab before or this would be your first lab job, we hope you'll consider applying and discover the good you can do on our team.
(This is a full-time position with excellent day-one benefits.)
If you'd like more information about laboratory jobs at IDEXX before applying, you can explore our Laboratory Careers web page here: careers.idexx.com
What you'll be doing as a Laboratory Technician:
  • You will use automated analyzers, microscopes and other laboratory diagnostic tools to perform analyses and tests that diagnose animal illnesses, injuries and diseases in support of veterinarian animal treatment.
  • You will perform diagnostic tests on blood, urine, fecal or pet biopsy samples that we receive in our lab by the thousands, every day.
  • You will set up and run lab tests, then read and release results according to SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).

What you'll need to succeed:
  • Do you have experience as a Sample Management Technician, Specimen Processor or Specimen Accessioner? This role will be in our Sample Management Department, where you will perform data entry, add bar codes to samples, unbag and prepare samples to move around the lab.
  • Other backgrounds that could be a fit for this role include work in fast-paced, high-volume work environments - food service, fulfillment, production, warehouse, and more. Comfort working around and handling clinical samples (blood, urine, fecals and biopsies) are a must.
  • Data entry skills a must.
  • You possess a High School diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. A 2-, 3- or 4-year degree in a Science-related field is preferred.
  • It is not required to work in our lab, but if you were a Veterinary Technician (RVT, LVT, CVT) or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT or MT), this experience and education would be a plus.
  • Ideally, you will have experience setting up, running, and reading lab tests, and operating laboratory equipment (microscopes, pipetting and / or clinical diagnostic analyzers).
  • You have a positive attitude and love to bring that energy into the lab every day to support your colleagues.
  • You are looking forward to working in a team.
  • You concentrate on the details and can work reliably and precisely.
  • You have a great sense of team spirit and responsibility.
  • Able to meet the physical requirements that go with working in a lab - standing and sitting for extended periods of time, phone & computer use, extended reach, lifting up to 50lb, and specific vision ability - close, color, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • This is a laboratory, so there is potential exposure to biohazards, agents known to cause zoonotic diseases, and hazardous chemicals.

What you can expect from us:
  • Hourly rates targeting: $22.25 / hr.
  • Opportunity for annual cash bonus and merit pay increase consideration.
  • Health / Dental / Vision benefits from day one.
  • 5% matching 401(k).
  • On-the-job training and career advancement opportunities.
  • Additional benefits including but not limited to financial support, pet insurance, mental health resources, volunteer paid days off, employee stock program, foundation donation matching, and more.
  • The opportunity to do meaningful work where you positively impact the lives of people and pets all over the world.

Schedule:
  • The hours for this position are Tuesday through Saturday, 3:00am - 11:30am; there is an every other Monday rotation, and when you work that Monday you get a different day off during the week.
  • The shifts and hours may vary slightly depending on business needs.
  • Reliable and dependable attendance is an essential function of the position.

Why IDEXX?
We're proud of the work we do, because our work matters. An innovation leader in every industry we serve since 1983, our team members help pet owners worldwide keep their companion animals healthy and happy, ensure safe drinking water for billions, and help farmers protect livestock and poultry from disease.

We have customers in over 175 countries and a collaborative global workforce. Our culture is one that embraces challenges and encourages learning and discovery. At IDEXX, you'll be supported by competitive compensation, incentives, and benefits while enjoying purposeful work that drives improvement.
Knowing our work makes a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of pets and people is what motivates us every day. If meaningful work and a sense of purpose are at the top of your list, you'll find it here.
Let's pursue what matters together.
IDEXX values a diverse workforce and workplace and strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.
IDEXX is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role.
As a Laboratory Technician, you will work on site in our Glen Burnie, MD lab.
Does this sound like the opportunity for you? Apply today!
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