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Specimen Processing Associate Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Exact Sciences

Specimen Processor

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$32K - $53K/yr

Position Overview The Specimen Processor is responsible for the accurate receipt, preparation for ... Associates Degree in a biological science field. * Experience with handling medical specimens.

Exactsciences

Specimen Processor

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$32K - $53K/yr

Position Overview The Specimen Processor is responsible for the accurate receipt, preparation for ... Associates Degree in a biological science field. * Experience with handling medical specimens.

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Phoenix, AZ

$20.98 - $29.19/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Scottsdale, AZ

$20.98 - $29.19/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

Mayo Clinic

Tech II-Lab Processing

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Minimum of two (2) years of specimen processing and handling, accessioning, clinical lab, lab testing, and/or other relevant lab or clinical experience. Associate's degree in a health or science ...

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All JobsSpecimen Processing Associate JobsSpecimen Processing Associate Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Specimen Processing Associate information

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How much do specimen processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing associate in Phoenix, AZ is $18.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $20.53 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processing jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Specimen Processing jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
Specimen Processing Associate jobs near you
Specimen Processor

Specimen Processor

Exact Sciences

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$32K - $53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Exact Sciences rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Help us change lives
At Exact Sciences, we're helping change how the world prevents, detects and guides treatment for cancer. We give patients and clinicians the clarity needed to make confident decisions when they matter most. Join our team to find a purpose-driven career, an inclusive culture, and robust benefits to support your life while you're working to help others.
Position Overview
The Specimen Processor is responsible for the accurate receipt, preparation for testing, and storage of all specimens while and providing excellent service to clients. This is a technical position requiring excellent customer service, accuracy, organization, and prioritization.
Essential Duties
include but are not limited to the following:
  • Accession and data entry of incoming specimens into the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
  • Review requisitions for completeness and assure proper collection, identification, labeling, and specimen integrity by following the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling, accessioning, and storage.
  • Maintain detailed records of specimen rejection and problem logs.
  • Triage specimens to the appropriate department.
  • Contact external pathology laboratories to acquire necessary patient samples for test orders, as necessary.
  • Assist with specimen shipping coordination and communicate testing status and non-conformance to collection sites, as needed.
  • Work with collection sites to resolve communication problems, as needed.
  • Obtain necessary clinical information for the purpose of quality control and billing for testing; interact with billing service to assure necessary clinical information is provided.
  • Engage with ordering physician offices staff, patients, and payors to verify coverage and obtain preauthorization for testing, as needed.
  • Follow up on issued final reports and the return of any related patient testing samples to their originating laboratory.
  • Maintain patient privacy and adhere to any applicable HIPAA regulations.
  • Assist in daily lab functions and responsibilities and perform general laboratory duties expected of maintaining a CLIA certified laboratory to include quality control activities.
  • Strong human relations, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
  • Support and comply with the company's Quality Management System policies and procedures.
  • Regular and reliable attendance.
  • Ability to work designated schedule.
  • Ability to work overtime as needed.
  • Ability to work on a computer and phone simultaneously.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with healthcare and research professionals.
  • Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Associates Degree in a biological science field.
  • Experience with handling medical specimens.

Various schedules available. Candidates must be available to work any shift between 6:00am - 8:30pm Monday - Saturday
#LI-SM1
Salary Range:
$32,000.00 - $53,000.00
The annual base salary shown is for this position located in US - AZ - Phoenix on a full-time basis. In addition, this position is bonus eligible.
Exact Sciences is proud to offer an employee experience that includes paid time off (including days for vacation, holidays, volunteering, and personal time), paid leave for parents and caregivers, a retirement savings plan, wellness support, and health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage. Learn more about our benefits.
Our success relies on the experiences and perspectives of a diverse team, and Exact Sciences fosters a culture where all employees can develop personally and professionally with a sense of respect and belonging. If you require an accommodation, please contact us here.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community to stay updated on the latest news and opportunities at Exact Sciences.
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, protected veteran status, and any other status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.
To view the Right to Work, E-Verify Employer, and Pay Transparency notices and Federal, Federal Contractor, and State employment law posters, visit our compliance hub. The documents summarize important details of the law and provide key points that you have a right to know.

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