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Specimen Processing Associate Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Main Line Health

Blood Bank Technologist

Paoli, PA · On-site

... include specimen processing, test performance, and reporting of test results. 3. Ability to ... Associates Degree or equivalent education may be acceptable provided it meets the grandfather ...

Main Line Health

Blood Bank Technologist

Paoli, PA · On-site

... include specimen processing, test performance, and reporting of test results. 3. Ability to ... Associates Degree or equivalent education may be acceptable provided it meets the grandfather ...

Main Line Health

Blood Bank Technologist

Media, PA · On-site

... include specimen processing, test performance, and reporting of test results. 3. Ability to ... Associates Degree or equivalent education may be acceptable provided it meets the grandfather ...

Main Line Health

Blood Bank Technologist

Paoli, PA

$33.23 - $51.49/hr

... include specimen processing, test performance, and reporting of test results. 3. Ability to ... Associates Degree or equivalent education may be acceptable provided it meets the grandfather ...

Main Line Health

Blood Bank Technologist

Media, PA

$33.23 - $51.49/hr

... include specimen processing, test performance, and reporting of test results. 3. Ability to ... Associates Degree or equivalent education may be acceptable provided it meets the grandfather ...

Main Line Health

Blood Bank Technologist

Paoli, PA · On-site

$33.23 - $51.49/hr

... include specimen processing, test performance, and reporting of test results. 3. Ability to ... Associates Degree or equivalent education may be acceptable provided it meets the grandfather ...

Main Line Health

Blood Bank Technologist

Media, PA · On-site

... include specimen processing, test performance, and reporting of test results. 3. Ability to ... Associates Degree or equivalent education may be acceptable provided it meets the grandfather ...

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All JobsSpecimen Processing Associate JobsSpecimen Processing Associate Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Specimen Processing Associate information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do specimen processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing associate in Philadelphia, PA is $18.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills are needed for specimen processing?

Specimen Processing Associates need strong attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to follow strict safety and handling protocols. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, proper specimen labeling, and knowledge of quality control procedures are also important. Additionally, they should have good communication skills and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a specimen processing associate or lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with laboratory equipment; some positions may require certification or training in laboratory safety and handling biological specimens.

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.

How do I become a specimen processor?

To become a specimen processing associate, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with laboratory procedures or medical terminology. Training is often provided on the job to learn specimen handling, labeling, and processing techniques, and familiarity with laboratory safety protocols is important.

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 is the highest paying career in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying careers often include pathologists, medical directors, and senior laboratory managers, who typically hold advanced degrees such as MD or PhD and have extensive experience. These roles involve overseeing laboratory operations, interpreting complex data, and ensuring compliance with regulations, often commanding higher salaries than entry-level positions like specimen processing associates.
Specimen Processing Associate jobs near you
SPECIMEN PROCESSING SUPERVISOR (FT; 40hrs/wk) - Temple Health/Chestnut Hill Hospital

SPECIMEN PROCESSING SUPERVISOR (FT; 40hrs/wk) - Temple Health/Chestnut Hill Hospital

Temple Health

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$16.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Temple University Health System rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Responsible for supervising the day-to-day activities of the Specimen Processing and phlebotomy sections of the laboratory including payroll, scheduling, and inventory control. Supervises a variety of general and routine functions involved in the pre- and post-analytic portions of lab test processing. This includes drawing, collection and processing of blood and other specimens from positively identified patients and their corresponding required information.

Records, processes or otherwise enters and manages necessary patient and specimen related information following established methods and procedures. Holds staff accountable for yielding reliable patient laboratory results.
Education
Associate's Degree in related field Required
Bachelor's Degree Medical Technology Preferred
Combination of relevant education and experience may be considered in lieu of degree Required
Experience
5 years experience performing phlebotomy and specimen processing in a clinical lab Required
1 year experience in a supervisory role Required
Licenses
Amer Medical Technologists Preferred or
Amer Soc Clinical Pathology Preferred.

What Temple University Health System employees say

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About Temple Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Temple Health is a major Philadelphia-based academic health system that is driving medical advances through clinical innovation, pioneering research and world-class education. The health system’s 1,550+ physicians and scientists share a common mission of bringing tomorrow’s treatments to the bedside today, helping them achieve outcomes once thought impossible.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1995

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