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Specimen Processing Associate Jobs in New Jersey

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Specimen Processing Associate information

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

Specimen Processing Associates often work in fast-paced laboratory environments where attention to detail and accuracy are crucial. A common challenge includes handling high volumes of specimens while maintaining precise labeling and data entry to prevent errors. Effective time management and familiarity with laboratory information systems can help manage these demands. Additionally, clear communication with laboratory staff and adherence to safety protocols ensure smooth workflow and minimize the risk of contamination or misidentification.

What does a specimen processing associate do?

A Specimen Processing Associate is responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological specimens—such as blood, urine, or tissue samples—for laboratory analysis. They ensure samples are accurately documented, sorted, and stored according to strict protocols to maintain sample integrity. This role is crucial for the timely and accurate processing of specimens, which supports laboratory testing and patient diagnosis. Specimen Processing Associates must follow safety guidelines and maintain detailed records throughout the process.

What is the difference between Specimen Processing Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectSpecimen Processing AssociateLaboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in specimen handlingAssociate degree or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, clinicsLaboratories, research facilities, hospitals
Employer & IndustryHospitals, diagnostic labs, clinicsMedical labs, research institutions, hospitals
Common Search & ComparisonSpecimen Processing Associate vs Laboratory Technician

The main difference is that a Specimen Processing Associate primarily handles the initial processing and preparation of specimens, requiring less formal education. In contrast, a Laboratory Technician often performs more complex testing and analysis, usually requiring an associate degree or certification. Both roles work in similar environments like hospitals and labs, but Laboratory Technicians typically have broader responsibilities and advanced training.

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

To thrive as a Specimen Processing Associate, you need attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and specimen tracking software is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and timely workflow in specimen management. These skills are crucial for maintaining specimen integrity, preventing errors, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.
What cities in New Jersey are hiring for Specimen Processing Associate jobs? Cities in New Jersey with the most Specimen Processing Associate job openings:

Medical Laboratory Scientist, Per Diem, Hackettstown, NJ

Atlantic Health System

Hackettstown, NJ • On-site

$40.60/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Atlantic Health System rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 275 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Under supervision of a CLIA General Supervisor, the Medical Laboratory Scientist processes specimens, performs high/moderate complexity testing, troubleshoots issues and reports accurate results. Ensures compliance with regulatory standards, maintaining quality control, and collaborates with various teams to support patient care and workflow efficiency.
  • Specimen Processing and Accessioning: Evaluates specimens and test orders for acceptability and accepts or rejects according to established guidelines.
  • Specimen Testing: Follows approved standard operating procedures.
  • Result Reporting: Exhibits technical judgment by correlating test results with diagnosis and previous results as applicable.
  • Computer Skills: Demonstrates proficiency in the use of HIS and LIS software systems in all job-related functions.
  • Equipment Operation: Operates, maintains and troubleshoots all technical equipment according to approved standard operating procedures.
  • Quality Control: Follows quality control policies, documents all related activities, and maintains records of instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance.
  • Proficiency Testing: Participates in proficiency testing, as assigned and ensures samples are treated the same as patient samples.
  • Inventory Management: Manage inventory by rotating stock and checking supply expiration dates to ensure availability and compliance.
  • Training: Assists with training of team members and students.
  • Safety: Demonstrates knowledge and practice of all Atlantic Health and department safety procedures.

Qualifications
Qualifications:
  • Must meet the CLIA personnel requirements for High Complexity testing:
    • MD or DO with a current medical license, OR
    • Doctoral degree in clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical or biological science, OR
    • Master's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical, or biological science, OR
    • Bachelor's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical or biological, OR
    • Associate degree in chemical, physical or biological science or medical laboratory or equivalent education and training
    • Foreign education credentials require US equivalency documentation by an AHS approved agency.
  • One (1) year healthcare or lab related work experience preferred.
  • ASCP, AMT or defined equivalent preferred

Work Environment:
  • Organized: Maintains a structured approach to tasks and keeps workspaces orderly.
  • Detail-oriented: Ensures accuracy and consistency in daily responsibilities.
  • Physically capable: Able to perform job duties that require physical effort.
  • Effective communicator: Communicates clearly and professionally with team members and other departments.
  • Problem-solver: Demonstrated ability to independently identify and analyze problems, develop clear and concise solutions, and complete projects efficiently.
  • Adaptable: Adjusts effectively to shifting priorities and workplace needs.

About Us
At Atlantic Health, our promise to our communities is; Anyone who enters one of our facilities will receive the highest quality care delivered at the right time, at the right place, and at the right cost. This commitment is also echoed in the respect, development and opportunities we give to our more than 22,000 team members. Headquarters in Morristown, New Jersey, we are one of the leading non-profit health care systems in the nation. Our facilities and sites of care include:
  • Atlantic Health Morristown Medical Center, Morristown, NJ
  • Atlantic Health Overlook Medical Center, Summit, NJ
  • Atlantic Health Newton Medical Center, Newton, NJ
  • Atlantic Health Chilton Medical Center, Pompton Plains, NJ
  • Atlantic Health Hackettstown Medical Center, Hackettstown, NJ
  • Atlantic Health Goryeb Children's Hospital, Morristown, NJ
  • Atlantic Health CentraState Healthcare System, Freehold, NJ
  • Atlantic Medical Group
  • Atlantic Visiting Nurse
  • Atlantic Mobile Health
  • Atlantic Rehabilitation

We have more than 900 community-based healthcare providers affiliated through Atlantic Medical Group.
We have received awards and recognition for the services we have provided to our patients, team members and communities. Below are just a few of our accolades:
  • Chosen for 17 years by Fortune as one of the magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For."
  • Atlantic Health Morristown and Atlantic Health Overlook Named by Newsweek as two of the "World's Best Hospitals" in 2026.
  • Atlantic Health Morristown and Atlantic Health Overlook ranked within the top three hospitals in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report's 2025-2026 Best Hospital rankings.
  • Atlantic Health scored four "A" grades by The Leapfrog Group in its Fall 2025 Hospital Safety Grades, performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and injections, as well as systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm.
  • Atlantic Health Morristown and Atlantic Health Overlook are New Jersey's only hospitals to be named among America's 50 Best hospitals by Healthgrades in 2026.
  • Named by Becker's Healthcare as one of the "165 Top Places to Work in Healthcare - 2026.
  • Atlantic Health Morristown, Atlantic Health Overlook, Atlantic Health Chilton and Atlantic Health Newton all Forbes Top Hospitals for 2026.
  • Named by Newsweek as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Inclusion & Diversity 2025.
  • Atlantic Health rated LEVEL 9 - 2025 CHIME Digital Health Most Wired.

Hackettstown Medical Center has been providing care to the community since 1973, primarily serving Warren, Sussex and Morris Counties in New Jersey. From preventive services and outpatient testing, to care for minor injuries and life-threatening illness, we offer a wide range of services to keep our local population healthy. Hackettstown Medical Center maintains several designations, including Primary Stroke Center from both the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services and The Joint Commission's advanced certification program; accreditations from the American College of Radiology for mammography, nuclear medicine and ultrasound; sleep disorder center accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine; and Quality of Care recognition for our cardiopulmonary department from the American Association for Respiratory Care. In addition, we provide education, screenings, support groups and wellness programs for people of all ages through our Center for Healthier Living.
Atlantic Health offers a competitive and comprehensive Total Rewards package that supports the health, financial security, and well-being of all team members. Offerings vary based on role level (Team Member, Director, Executive). Below is a general summary, with role-specific enhancements highlighted:
Team Member Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Coverage (22.5 hours per week or above for full-time and part-time team members)
  • Life & AD&D Insurance.
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (with options to supplement)
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan: Employer match, additional non-elective contribution
  • PTO & Paid Sick Leave
  • Tuition Assistance, Advancement & Academic Advising
  • Parental, Adoption, Surrogacy Leave
  • Backup and On-Site Childcare
  • Well-Being Rewards
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Fertility Benefits, Healthy Pregnancy Program
  • Flexible Spending & Commuter Accounts
  • Pet, Home & Auto, Identity Theft and Legal Insurance

Note: In Compliance with the NJ Pay Transparency Act (effective Sunday, June 1, 2025), all job postings will include the hourly wage or salary (or a range), as well as this summary of benefits. Final compensation and benefit eligibility may vary by role and employment status and will be confirmed at the time of offer.
EEO STATEMENT
Atlantic Health, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer and federal contractor or subcontractor and therefore abides by applicable laws to protect applicants and employees from discrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, fringe benefits, job training, classification, referral, and other aspects of employment, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation), national origin, citizenship status, disability, age, genetics, or veteran status.
About the Team
At Atlantic Health System, we have skilled medical technicians who can collect blood for diagnostic and screening purposes in a family-friendly environment. Laboratories are open any time during regular business hours. COVID-19 testing is available at some Atlantic Health System outpatient laboratories and centers, as well as a sensory room in the Atlantic Health Children's Specialty Center at Morristown offers a calming space to help make your family's lab visit a caring and compassionate experience.

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About Atlantic Health System

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Atlantic Health System aims to deliver the highest quality, safety and care combined the best experience for our patients and their families. We are confident that you will find success within Atlantic Health System, which has been named for the 14th year in a row to Fortune's "Top 100 Best U.S. Companies to Work For" list. We believe you will find that our culture of collaboration and care exemplifies the value we place on our patients, their families and our employees.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Morristown, NJ, US

Year founded

1996