ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laboratory Specimen Processor Jobs in California

CommonSpirit Health

Specimen Processor

Stockton, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

Specimen Processor Inspired by faith. Driven by innovation. Powered by humankindness. CommonSpirit ... You will be expected to expertly operate various laboratory equipment, meticulously document all ...

St Josephs Medical Center

Specimen Processor

Stockton, CA · On-site

$31.91 - $36.44/hr

You will be expected to expertly operate various laboratory equipment, meticulously document all ... specimen integrity. * Perform routine maintenance and calibration of processing equipment ...

CommonSpirit Health

Specimen Processor

Stockton, CA

$17.25 - $20/hr

One California As our Specimen Processor, you will help clinical teams accurately process and ... You will be expected to expertly operate various laboratory equipment, meticulously document all ...

Dignity Health

Specimen Processor

Stockton, CA · On-site

$31.91 - $36.44/hr

You will be expected to expertly operate various laboratory equipment, meticulously document all ... specimen integrity. * Perform routine maintenance and calibration of processing equipment ...

New

Veracyte

Specimen Processor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Specimen Processor I are knowledgeable in sample integrity issues and are a resource to others in ... Following the laboratory's established policies and procedures. * Understanding of compliance ...

Veracyte

Specimen Processor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Specimen Processor I are knowledgeable in sample integrity issues and are a resource to others in ... Following the laboratory's established policies and procedures. * Understanding of compliance ...

Veracyte

Lead Specimen Processor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Understands and performs laboratory activities to all applicable regulatory and compliance ... Lead Specimen Processors are knowledgeable in sample integrity issues and are a resource to others ...

Veracyte

Lead Specimen Processor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Understands and performs laboratory activities to all applicable regulatory and compliance ... Lead Specimen Processors are knowledgeable in sample integrity issues and are a resource to others ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Specimen Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Basic understanding of computers with a preferred knowledge of laboratory testing and/or laboratory specimen processing. * No experience required but previous laboratory experience preferred.

CYNET SYSTEMS

Specimen Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Basic understanding of computers with a preferred knowledge of laboratory testing and/or laboratory specimen processing. * No experience required but previous laboratory experience preferred.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaboratory Specimen Processor JobsLaboratory Specimen Processor Jobs in California

Laboratory Specimen Processor information

See California salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do laboratory specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory specimen processor in California is $17.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a laboratory specimen processor do?

A Laboratory Specimen Processor is responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological specimens such as blood, urine, or tissue samples for analysis in a laboratory setting. They ensure that all specimens are correctly identified and handled according to strict protocols to maintain sample integrity. Their duties often include data entry, organizing samples, and maintaining proper documentation to support laboratory testing and diagnosis. This role is crucial in preventing errors and ensuring the accuracy of laboratory results.

What is the difference between Laboratory Specimen Processor vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory Specimen ProcessorLaboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; additional certifications may be required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, clinics handling specimen processingLaboratories, hospitals, clinics performing various testing procedures
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing, labeling, and sorting specimens for testingPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining equipment

The main difference is that Laboratory Specimen Processors focus on preparing and handling specimens, while Laboratory Technicians perform testing and analysis. Both roles require similar credentials and work in laboratory settings, but their responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory specimen processor?

To thrive as a Laboratory Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and sample tracking software is highly valued. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and efficient workflow. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining sample integrity, minimizing errors, and supporting timely laboratory results.

What are some common challenges faced by laboratory specimen processors, and how can they be managed?

Laboratory Specimen Processors often work in fast-paced environments where accuracy and attention to detail are critical. Common challenges include handling a high volume of samples, maintaining strict labeling and documentation protocols, and managing potential exposure to biohazards. Staying organized, double-checking sample identification, and consistently following safety procedures can help manage these challenges effectively. Team communication is also essential, as processors often collaborate with phlebotomists, lab technicians, and couriers to ensure smooth workflow and timely processing.
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Specimen Processor jobs in California? For Laboratory Specimen Processor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Specimen Processor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Specimen Processor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Laboratory Specimen Processor jobs? Cities in California with the most Laboratory Specimen Processor job openings:
Laboratory Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Specimen Processor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,985 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Specimen Processor

CommonSpirit Health

Stockton, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

CommonSpirit Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 530 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Specimen Processor

Inspired by faith. Driven by innovation. Powered by humankindness. CommonSpirit Health is building a healthier future for all through its integrated health services. As one of the nation's largest nonprofit Catholic healthcare organizations, CommonSpirit Health delivers more than 20 million patient encounters annually through more than 2,300 clinics, care sites and 158 hospital-based locations, in addition to its home-based services and virtual care offerings.

As our Specimen Processor, you will help clinical teams accurately process and accession specimens so they can provide precise and meaningful patient results.

Every day you will meticulously prepare, centrifuge, store, and deliver a high volume of specimens according to strict protocols, ensuring integrity and proper identification. You will be expected to expertly operate various laboratory equipment, meticulously document all actions, and maintain a clear understanding of pre-analytical factors to uphold excellent quality and safety standards.

To be successful in this role you will possess strong organizational skills, exceptional attention to detail, the ability to work independently within a fast-paced environment, and a commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and compliance with all laboratory regulations.

  • Accurately accession and process all clinical specimens, ensuring correct demographic information, clinical history, and test requests.
  • Prepare and process specimens according to established protocols, including centrifugation, storage, and transport, while maintaining specimen integrity.
  • Perform routine maintenance and calibration of processing equipment, including centrifuges, and troubleshoot any issues.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of all specimen handling, accessioning, and distribution, including transport logs.
  • Collaborate effectively with ordering physicians and testing personnel to relay critical information and investigate delinquent reports.
  • Ensure strict compliance with all safety protocols, hazard programs, and regulatory standards, including HIPAA and clinical laboratory laws.

REQUIRED:

  • 2 years experience processing laboratory specimens
  • Medical Terminology Certificate required
  • Valid CA Driver's License
  • Good communication skills. Ability to handle people in diverse situations
  • Intermediate computer skills and keyboard operation

PREFERRED:

  • High School graduate or equivalent
  • AA or AS degree in chemical physical biological or laboratory science

Founded in 1899, Dignity Health - St. Joseph's Medical Center is a 355-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Stockton, California. Serving over 125,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level III NICU, cancer care, heart care, and a family birth center. Additionally, St. Joseph's Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center and was named one of America's 250 Best Hospitals by Healthgrades in 2026.

What CommonSpirit Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply