1

Laboratory Specimen Processor Jobs in California

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Specimen Prep Technician

Sonora, CA

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

This position reports to Specimen Processing Supervisor, and takes direction from Senior Specimen ... Six (6) months' experience in a laboratory or key encoding environment. * High School Diploma or ...

Specimen Accessioner

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Current or prior Labcorp experience * 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing * 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment * 3 months or more ...

Showing results 21-40

Laboratory Specimen Processor information

See California salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do laboratory specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 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 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 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.

How to become a laboratory specimen processor for a lab?

To become a laboratory 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 employers may prefer or require certification in laboratory procedures or safety, and on-the-job training is common. Familiarity with laboratory equipment and procedures can improve job prospects.

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:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Specimen Processor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,985 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA • On-site


Labcorp
Scientific Research and Development Services • 10K+ employees

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 1,154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 120 rated laboratories

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description


Labcorp is a global leader in laboratory services, providing the insights and answers that help healthcare providers, patients, researchers, pharmaceutical companies and health systems make confident decisions and improve outcomes. Through our unparalleled science, data, technology and laboratory network, we advance diagnostics, accelerate innovation and help address some of the world's most important health challenges. As we shape the future of healthcare, we are leveraging advanced technologies, intelligent digital solutions and data-driven innovation across our operations to enhance how work gets done and deliver greater value to customers and patients. With our global scale and deep expertise, you'll have the opportunity to do meaningful work, grow your career and make a real impact on people's health around the world. Together, we're improving health and improving lives.


Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in San Diego, CA.

Work Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday 7:00AM to 3:30PM. Additional days and hours may be required depending on business needs.

Job Responsibilities

  • Prepare laboratory specimens for analysis and testing

  • Unpack and route specimens to their respective staging areas

  • Accurately identify and label specimens

  • Pack and ship specimens to proper testing facilities

  • Meet department activity and production goals

  • Properly prepare and store excess specimen samples

  • Data entry of patient information in an accurate and timely manner

  • Resolve and document any problem specimens

Minimum Qualification:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required

Preferred Qualification

  • Current or prior Labcorp experience

  • 3 months or more of experience in a lab or specimen processing

  • 3 months or more of experience in a medical/clinical laboratory environment

  • 3 months or more of experience in the healthcare industry, such as a physician's office, clinic or hospital

  • 3 months or more of experience in an assembly or manufacturing production environment

Additional Job Standards

  • Comfortable handling biological specimens

  • Ability to accurately identify specimens

  • Experience working in a team environment

  • Strong data entry and organizational skills

  • High level of attention to detail

  • Proficient in MS Office

  • Able to lift up to 40lbs.

  • Able to pass a standardized color blindness test

**Pay Range: $17.50 - $20.50 per hour.

All job offers will bebased on a candidate's skills and prior relevant experience, applicabledegrees/certifications,as well as internal equity and market data.

Benefits: Employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week are eligible for comprehensive benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD/LTD, 401(k), Paid Time Off (PTO) or Flexible Time Off (FTO), Tuition Reimbursement and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.Employees regularly scheduled to work less than 20 hours, Casual, Intern, and Temporary employees are only eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan.Employees who are regularly scheduled toworka 7 on/7 off schedule are eligible to receive all the foregoing benefits except PTO or FTO. For more detailed information, please click here.


Labcorp is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer:

Labcorp strives for inclusion and belonging in the workforce and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. We make employment decisions based on the needs of our business and the qualifications and merit of the individual. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), family or parental status, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, personal appearance, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic. Additionally, all qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable law.


We encourage all to apply

If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance using our online tools to search and apply for jobs, or needs an accommodation, please visit ouraccessibility siteor contact us atLabcorp Accessibility. Formore information about how we collect and store your personal data, please see ourPrivacy Statement.




What Labcorp employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom