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Specimen Processing Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Specimen Processing Manager information

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How much do specimen processing manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing manager in the United States is $18.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a specimen processor do?

A specimen processor prepares biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for testing by labeling, sorting, and ensuring proper storage. They follow safety protocols, operate laboratory equipment, and document sample information to support accurate diagnostic testing.

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

AspectSpecimen Processing ManagerLaboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, medical technology, or related field; often requires certificationAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role overseeing specimen processing departments in labsHands-on testing and processing specimens in laboratory settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilitiesClinical labs, hospitals, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonManagement, oversight, specimen processingLaboratory work, specimen handling, testing

The Specimen Processing Manager focuses on supervising and coordinating specimen processing operations, requiring leadership skills and management experience. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians perform the technical, hands-on work of processing and testing specimens. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings but differ mainly in responsibility level and scope of work.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Specimen Processing Manager typically earns less than $10,000 per month, as this role usually requires specialized training and experience. Jobs that can pay $10,000 a month without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, which rely on experience, certifications, or licensing rather than formal degrees.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying roles are often senior positions such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Scientific Officers, who oversee operations and research. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the organization and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Specimen Processing Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Specimen Processing Manager, you need a solid background in laboratory operations, specimen handling protocols, and typically a degree in laboratory science or a related field. Proficiency with laboratory information systems (LIS), chain-of-custody documentation, and regulatory compliance (such as CLIA or CAP) is essential. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively help manage teams and ensure workflow efficiency. These skills are crucial to maintaining specimen integrity, regulatory compliance, and timely laboratory operations.

What does a Specimen Processing Manager do?

A Specimen Processing Manager oversees the daily operations of the specimen processing department in a laboratory or medical facility. Their responsibilities include managing staff, ensuring accurate and timely processing of biological specimens, maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, and optimizing workflow efficiency. They also handle training, quality control, and may coordinate with other departments to ensure smooth laboratory operations. This role is crucial in ensuring that specimens are handled properly for accurate diagnostic testing.

What are the main challenges a Specimen Processing Manager may face when overseeing laboratory workflow?

A Specimen Processing Manager often encounters challenges such as managing high sample volumes during peak periods, ensuring timely and accurate specimen handling, and maintaining compliance with strict laboratory protocols. Balancing workflow efficiency with quality control, especially when coordinating a diverse team across multiple shifts, can also be demanding. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for troubleshooting issues quickly and ensuring that specimens are processed without delays, which directly impacts overall laboratory performance.

Is lab manager a stressful job?

A lab manager, including specimen processing managers, often works in a fast-paced environment with strict quality and safety standards, which can contribute to job stress. Managing staff, ensuring timely processing, and maintaining compliance with regulations are key responsibilities that may add to the workload and pressure. However, stress levels vary depending on the workplace, workload, and individual coping skills.
More about Specimen Processing Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Specimen Processing Manager jobs? Cities with the most Specimen Processing Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processing jobs? The most popular types of Specimen Processing jobs are:
What states have the most Specimen Processing Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Specimen Processing Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,475 per year, or $18 per hour.
Specimen Processing Technician

Specimen Processing Technician

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Newton Center, MA

$43K - $48K/yr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


Dana-Farber Cancer Institute rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Specimen Processing Technician II processes, distributes, and provides quality assurance for all patient specimens. Supplies accurate information to providers and other clinical staff regarding laboratory testing, test requirements and patient results. The Specimen Processing Technician II participates in training new team members.
This is a part-time, 100% on-site position based at the Chestnut Hill campus, with hours from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.
 

  • Performs pre-analytical specimen processing: Receives patient specimens from within the institute and outside institutions. 
  • Becomes familiar with patient and specimen requirements; stores and transports specimens according to procedures; ensure specimen integrity is preserved at all times.
  • Unloads and loads the pneumatic tube system and accurately distributes specimens; does routine and stat specimen delivery runs to BWH laboratories; does specimen pickup runs from clinic locations at DFCI
  • Receives specimens into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) by scanning barcodes or manual entry
  • Verifies upon receipt that all samples are labeled according to policy and addresses variances according to policies.
  • Documents in the LIS any specimen or test cancellations per policy; contacts the appropriate provider or reference laboratories with questions regarding discrepancies with test orders or specimen containers.
  • Processes add on tests according to policy.
  • Processes tests sent out to reference laboratories; communicates with reference labs as needed
  • Processes specimens by loading the pre-analytic automation system or via centrifugation, aliquoting, storing, and shipping per test requirements.
  • Performs various quality checks to ensure all requests are accurate before dispensing the specimens to the appropriate performing lab.
  • Responds to telephone inquiries to assist providers, nurses and other caregivers with lab test, test requirement and result inquiries.
  • Performs all duties with accuracy and efficiency to ensure patient care is not compromised.
  • Utilizes electronic system for faxed tests results from reference laboratories.
  • Accurately enters reference lab results as needed including transplant test results from Rhode Island Blood Center.
  • Reviews pending lists as required; addresses and corrects discrepancies or pending test results by contacting the reference lab and the provider as necessary.
  • Participates in training new team members.
  • Processes bone marrows orders and specimens.
  • Processes specimens in the Central Pathology Processing area of the department
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School diploma required, AS or BS in a physical science preferred.
  • 1 year of experience in a healthcare or laboratory setting required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

  • Fundamental knowledge to accurately and efficiently ensure all test requests are in the LIS. Understands lab safety policy and procedures and Department of Transportation specimen shipping regulations. 

  • Basic knowledge of specimen processing for all specimen types.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including phone etiquette; customer service skills

  • Basic proficiency in computer skills – able to perform essential tasks such as using a keyboard and mouse, navigating the operating system, managing files and folders, and using basic software applications like word processors and web browsers.

  • Ability to work well in a heavily team-oriented environment.

  • Ability to work efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced environment.

  • Capacity to remain flexible and multitask is key.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are committed to having faculty and staff who offer multifaceted experiences. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and compassionate professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.  

EEO Poster.

Pay Transparency Statement

The hiring range is based on market pay structures, with individual salaries determined by factors such as business needs, market conditions, internal equity, and based on the candidate’s relevant experience, skills and qualifications.

For union positions, the pay range is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

$43,700.00 - $48,200.00

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About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1947