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Specimen Processing Associate Jobs in Madison, WI

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Specimen Processing Associate information

See Madison, WI salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do specimen processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing associate in Madison, WI is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Madison, WI are hiring for Specimen Processing Associate jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Specimen Processing Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing Associate job openings in Madison, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,323 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Veterinary Technician: Emergency & Critical Care (WEEKEND SHIFTS)

Veterinary Technician: Emergency & Critical Care (WEEKEND SHIFTS)

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

PTO

Posted 18 hours ago


University Of Wisconsin-Madison rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Job Category:
University Staff
Employment Type:
Regular
Job Profile:
Veterinary Technician I
Job Summary:
UW Veterinary Care (UWVC) is excited to welcome dedicated veterinary technicians to our Emergency and Critical Care (ECC) teams. Whether you're an experienced Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) or a recent CVT graduate, we want to hear from you and we provide comprehensive training!
As the only veterinary teaching hospital in the state, UWVC offers a unique opportunity to blend your passion for animal care with the chance to mentor and train the veterinarians of tomorrow. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact in your career, UWVC is the place for you. Enjoy flexible scheduling, generous benefits, and competitive pay while helping shape the future of veterinary medicine.
Explore a career with us and see how UWVC can be the perfect environment for your professional growth!
The incumbent will be expected to work varied day and night weekend shifts on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Potential for part-time and full-time considerations. Exact work schedule will be discussed with candidates and agreed upon during the recruitment.
This position is being posted at Veterinary Technician levels 1, 2 and 3. Level and pay are commensurate with experience.
Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Completes routine laboratory tests and collects specimen according to established medical orders and care plans
  • Documents and disseminates results to the appropriate entities
  • Serves as a point of contact for animal owners and stakeholders providing information and answering questions
  • Assists with the execution of more complex animal care procedures and affiliated activities
  • Prepares, completes, and documents basic technical animal care procedures, assessments, and medication administration according to established care plans and medical necessity
  • Assist with treatments of patients in the Critical Care Unit (CCU) including the Emergency Room (ER) and the Intermediate Care Ward (IMCW).
  • Monitors animal health status and records, notifies veterinarian when status changes, and ensures care plans are completed and recorded in the medical record
  • Tracks supply inventory levels and places replenishment orders
  • Maintains organization of and updates records related to medical procedures and billing

Department:
School of Veterinary Medicine
UW Veterinary Care Hospital
Emergency and Critical Care Unit
Compensation:
The starting hourly rate for this position is $25.00 (but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications).
In addition to the base pay listed in this posting, ECC positions offer a substantial $3.00/hour increase on top of your base pay. Opting for a flexible schedule further enhances your earnings with an additional $2.00/ hour. Earn an extra $3.00/hour for night shifts and $1.80/hour for weekends, creating a total shift incentive potential of nearly $10.00/ hour!
Sign-on Bonus of 3-5% of base pay (based on FTE) to be paid over the first year of employment!
UW Veterinary Care offers competitive wages (including night and weekend differential, if applicable), outstanding employee benefits https://hr.wisc.edu/benefits/new-employee-benefits-enrollment/benefits-for-employees-covered-by-the-wrs/ ample paid time off https://hr.wisc.edu/benefits/leave/paid-leave/ , and financial support for continuing education and pursuing specialty certification.
Required Qualifications:
  • Certified Veterinary Technician
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. independently
  • Physical and manual dexterity to perform specialized technical tasks

This position is posted at Vet Tech levels 1, 2 and 3. Level is determined by qualifications based on type of prior veterinary tech experience:
  • To qualify for Level 1: Entry level, new CVT grad with minimal experience
  • To qualify for Level 2: Generally, over 2 years of veterinary tech experience, may substitute years of experience for specialization
  • To qualify for Level 3: Veterinary Tech Specialist (VTS), or highly qualified and specialized in a specific area, may have prior experience from another university hospital

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience in a veterinary clinic

Education:
Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) Required
High School Diploma Required
Associates Degree Preferred
How to Apply:
Begin the online application process by clicking the 'Apply' button. You will be asked to submit a current resume.
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.
The deadline for assuring full consideration is April 1, 2026; however, this position will remain open and applications will be considered until the position is filled.
Contact Information:
Hiring Manager: Melinda Carmody, Veterinary Nurse Supervisor, melinda.carmody@wisc.edu
Human Resources Support: April Schulz, HR Manager, ajschulz2@wisc.edu
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodation for any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR) in the division you are applying to. Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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About University of Wisconsin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Wisconsin, based in Madison, WI, US, functions in the educational industry and is a renowned and respected institution for higher education. Its official website is wisc.edu. Established in 1848, this public research university is recognized globally for its innovative approach to education, research, creativity, and public service. It embodies a strong commitment to academic freedom and academic excellence. As a major contributor to the Wisconsin Idea, it aims to accomplish its mission of generating well-rounded individuals who will contribute substantially to society, the local community, and the global economy.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

Year founded

2005