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Specimen Collector Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Upon specimen arrival, properly marks the location of testing for each ordered test on the accompanying requisition. * Ensures that the correct specimen is collected for each test ordered, and that ...

Upon specimen arrival, properly marks the location of testing for each ordered test on the accompanying requisition. * Ensures that the correct specimen is collected for each test ordered, and that ...

Upon specimen arrival, properly marks the location of testing for each ordered test on the accompanying requisition. * Ensures that the correct specimen is collected for each test ordered, and that ...

Lab Assistant

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Upon specimen arrival, properly marks the location of testing for each ordered test on the accompanying requisition. * Ensures that the correct specimen is collected for each test ordered, and that ...

Upon specimen arrival, properly marks the location of testing for each ordered test on the accompanying requisition. * Ensures that the correct specimen is collected for each test ordered, and that ...

Upon specimen arrival, properly marks the location of testing for each ordered test on the accompanying requisition. * Ensures that the correct specimen is collected for each test ordered, and that ...

Phlebotomist I

Chino, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Matches laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes. * Label, centrifuge, split, and freeze specimens as required by test order. * Check all test requisitions or computer label against script to ...

Perform blood draws and other specimen collections on patients of all ages, adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines. * Greet and interact with patients * Verify patient identity and ...

Phlebotomist

Irvine, CA

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

This role plays a critical part in patient care by expertly performing venipunctures and other specimen collections, ensuring the quality and accuracy of samples, and supporting the smooth operation ...

Phlebotomist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

This role plays a critical part in patient care by expertly performing venipunctures and other specimen collections, ensuring the quality and accuracy of samples, and supporting the smooth operation ...

Responsibilities · Collect blood specimens using venipuncture and skin puncture techniques. · Perform specimen collection for newborn, pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients. · Process ...

Type of specimen and time drawn is correct for the test ordered. * Specimen integrity has been maintained from the initial draw / pick-up of specimen(s) until arrival and completion of test(s ...

Type of specimen and time drawn is correct for the test ordered. * Specimen integrity has been maintained from the initial draw / pick-up of specimen(s) until arrival and completion of test(s ...

Type of specimen and time drawn is correct for the test ordered. * Specimen integrity has been maintained from the initial draw / pick-up of specimen(s) until arrival and completion of test(s ...

Type of specimen and time drawn is correct for the test ordered. * Specimen integrity has been maintained from the initial draw / pick-up of specimen(s) until arrival and completion of test(s ...

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Specimen Collector information

See Riverside, CA salary details

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How much do specimen collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen collector in Riverside, CA is $17.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by specimen collectors, and how can they be addressed?

Specimen Collectors often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patients, ensuring proper identification and labeling of specimens, and maintaining strict adherence to protocols to avoid contamination. Effective communication skills are essential when interacting with patients who may be anxious or uncooperative. Staying organized, following established procedures, and participating in regular training can help Specimen Collectors address these challenges and ensure the accuracy and integrity of collected samples.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a specimen collector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Specimen Collector, you need knowledge of proper specimen collection procedures, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems, chain-of-custody protocols, and possibly certifications like DOT specimen collection is important. Excellent interpersonal skills, professionalism, and the ability to maintain patient confidentiality help build trust with clients. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure accurate specimen handling, compliance with regulations, and reliable test results.

What is the difference between Specimen Collector vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectSpecimen CollectorMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, phlebotomy certificationAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, mobile collection sitesLaboratories, hospitals, clinics
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job FocusCollect and prepare specimens for testingAnalyze specimens, perform tests, report results

While both roles involve working with patient specimens, Specimen Collectors primarily focus on collecting and preparing samples, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform detailed analysis and testing of specimens. The roles often overlap in healthcare settings, but their responsibilities and required qualifications differ significantly.

What does a specimen collector do?

Specimen collectors collect specimens, such as blood, urine or tissue samples, in medical laboratories. They perform basic data entry tasks, get samples ready for additional laboratory testing and processing, and transport the samples to different facilities. More advanced positions may include other field or laboratory work, such as drawing blood or preparing tissue samples for microscopic analysis. High-level written and verbal communication skills are essential in this position. Specimen collectors or processors who work for government agencies also need to ensure that their collection processes follow the agency’s regulations and guidelines on drug and sample testing.

What are popular job titles related to Specimen Collector jobs in Riverside, CA? For Specimen Collector jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Collector jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Collector jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Specimen Collector jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Specimen Collector job openings:
Infographic showing various Specimen Collector job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,033 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Specimen Processing Group Lead

Quest Diagnostics

Trabuco Canyon, CA • On-site

$26.04 - $27.41/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Specimen Processing Group Lead

San Juan Capistrano, CA, Monday to Friday, 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM

Pay range: $26.04 - $27.41 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.

Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.

We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects – physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:

  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

This position assists the department supervisors by performing combinations of the following activities: Schedule coordination, general supervision of all Specimen Technicians, providing input to supervisors for performance review and disciplinary action. The Group leader typically leads 8 - 12 employees, is involved in process and compliance audits and may be responsible for performing duties listed below. Priority consideration given to internal candidates for this position.

Responsibilities
  • Demonstrates a proficiency and understanding of all job duties in Specimen Processing department
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem resolution skills; ability to work effectively with the technical departments to resolve problems and gain cooperation as needed
  • Assists all SPT's in proper test selection and problem resolution
  • Answers and clarifies employee questions (including laboratory personnel) regarding processing
  • Provides appropriate feedback to supervisor(s) when problems arise.
  • Completes appropriate shift paperwork, setting up for production, and insuring that their staff has cleaned up at the end of the shift
  • Monitors supply inventory, ordering supplies as needed
  • Repairs and maintains department equipment notifying appropriate personnel when repairs beyond the general scope are required
  • Assists in or performing all training, cross training and department auditing functions as assigned by the supervisor(s)
  • Perform all other job duties as assigned
  • In addition to above, the group leader may assist the supervisor(s) in the following:
  • Prioritizing work assignments
  • Monitoring production and activity of all SPT's in order to meet departmental deadlines
  • Coaching for improved performance by providing appropriate feedback and maintaining a positive work environment
  • Ensures effective employee utilization through workforce planning to include staffing weekends and holidays
  • Makes suggestions and recommendations to enhance workflow
  • Helps manage department overtime
  • Ensures that all Quest Diagnostics Incorporated and Specimen Processing policies and procedures are adhered to
Qualifications

Required Work Experience:

Internal candidates minimum of one year in SPT III/related role

Preferred Work Experience:

  • 3 years experience in a laboratory environment with Specimen Processing experience preferred.
  • Medical background preferred which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory

Physical and Mental Requirements:

  • Performs multiple tasks simultaneously and with interruptions, physical and mental stress
  • Works in a biohazard environment and practices good safety habits
  • Able to sit or stand for long periods

Skills:

  • PC skills including the ability to run reports & use to manage workflow; real-time thru-put
  • Maintains confidentiality at all times. Will have access to overall employee performance, may have knowledge of disciplinary actions up to, and including termination.
  • Demonstrates leadership by example, exhibiting good attendance, good decision making, and keep the team on task
  • Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment
  • Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability
  • Drives frequent employee interaction on the floor providing feedback, coaching, and guidance
  • Demonstrates excellent communication skills and ability to answer questions with both internal and external clients
  • Adheres to Quest Diagnostics core values, safety, and compliance policies and procedures
  • Works under pressure and assists department in maintaining productivity and quality goals
  • Ability to diffuse tense situations and applies good judgment when making decisions and resolving problems

Education

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Preferred)

Pursuant to code CA BPC 1269 under CLIA, any lab releasing results for California work must have at least a High School Diploma or equivalent.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with the following laws if applicable, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the California Fair Chance Act.

Quest believes that conviction records may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship to the following job duties: accessing company property, information, assets, and products including sensitive information; accessing customer data or confidential information, and partnering and regularly working with or supervising other Quest employees and interacting with Quest customers.

About the Team

Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply. While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume. Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.


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