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Specimen Processing Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MFM Health

Specimen Processing Technician

Danvers, MA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Specimen Processing Technician MFM Health is seeking a Specimen Processing Technician who will be responsible for identifying specimens, entering data into the Lab Information System, and preparing ...

Lancesoft INC

Specimen Processing Technician

Winfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Specimen Processing - Specimen Technician Location: Winfield IL 60190 Duration: 3+ months Shift/Time Zone: MONDAY-FRIDAY Hours 130p-9pm, Rotating Saturday 9a-3p Payrate: $25.00/hr. - $18.00/hr. on W2 ...

A+ Consulting

Specimen Technician - 2nd Shift

Lewisville, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

The Specimen Processing Technician is responsible for general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department. This position requires a data entry background. Shift: Sunday - Thursday 2 ...

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How much do specimen processing technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing technician 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 are Specimen Processing Technicians?

Specimen Processing Technicians are healthcare professionals responsible for receiving, sorting, and preparing biological samples such as blood, urine, and tissue for laboratory analysis. They ensure that specimens are accurately labeled, properly stored, and delivered to the correct laboratory departments. Their work is essential for maintaining the integrity of samples and supporting accurate and timely test results, which aid in patient diagnosis and treatment. These technicians often work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic laboratories and must follow strict protocols to prevent contamination or errors.

What are some common challenges faced by Specimen Processing Technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Specimen Processing Technicians often manage a high volume of samples and must ensure each is labeled and handled correctly to prevent errors. Working efficiently under time constraints while maintaining stringent attention to detail can be challenging, especially during peak hours. To overcome these challenges, strong organizational skills, consistent adherence to standard operating procedures, and clear communication with laboratory staff are essential. Ongoing training and double-checking work can also help minimize mistakes and improve workflow.

How can I become a specimen processor?

To become a specimen processing technician, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and training in laboratory procedures. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of safety protocols, and familiarity with laboratory equipment; some positions may require certification or on-the-job training. Experience in healthcare or laboratory settings can improve job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Specimen Processing Technician, you need attention to detail, organizational skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring laboratory experience or relevant certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanning, and specimen handling protocols is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate specimen tracking, prevent errors, and support timely laboratory operations, directly impacting patient care and diagnosis.

What do specimen technicians do?

Specimen processing technicians are responsible for collecting, labeling, and preparing biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for laboratory testing. They operate laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and ensure samples are properly stored and documented to support accurate diagnostic results.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

Among lab technicians, specialized roles such as clinical laboratory managers or senior medical laboratory technologists tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in high-demand settings can influence earning potential.

How many years will it take to be a lab technician?

Becoming a specimen processing technician or lab technician typically requires completing a post-secondary education program, such as a certificate or associate degree in medical laboratory technology, which usually takes 1 to 2 years. Gaining relevant skills, certifications, and experience can further enhance job prospects and advancement opportunities.

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

AspectSpecimen Processing TechnicianMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, phlebotomy certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology, certification often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, clinics handling specimen preparationLaboratories performing diagnostic testing and analysis
Job ResponsibilitiesReceiving, labeling, and processing specimens; preparing samples for testingPerforming tests, analyzing samples, and reporting results

While both roles work in laboratory settings, Specimen Processing Technicians focus on specimen handling and preparation, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform diagnostic tests and analyze samples. The roles often overlap in work environment and certifications, but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Specimen Processing Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Specimen Processing Technician jobs? Cities with the most Specimen Processing Technician job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Specimen Processing Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processing Technician jobs are:
Specimen Processing Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,475 per year, or $18 per hour.
Specimen Processing Technician

Specimen Processing Technician

The University of Kansas Health System

Kansas City, KS • On-site

$15.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

University Of Kansas Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 176 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 890 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position Title
Specimen Processing TechnicianEvenings - Full TimeBell HospitalPosition Summary / Career Interest:Tuesday - Saturday 2:30pm - 11:30pm
The Specimen Processing Technician is a position within the clinical laboratory and microbiology that is responsible for managing specimens once they arrive in the department and handling multiple pre-analytical variables. Depending on the area of the lab, this may include, but are not limited to: positive patient identification, correct tube types, specimen conditions and integrity and how they affect laboratory results. The Specimen Processing Technician accepts samples in the laboratory and performs tasks including releasing orders out of the Hospital Information System (HIS), receiving specimens in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), and processing specimens to include aliquoting and preparation for the automation line. The specimen Processing Technician troubleshoots specimen and order issues and communicates with care providers across the Health System. The Specimen Processing Technician working in Microbiology is responsible for performing pre-analytic functions such as: specimen receipt, sterile processing, specimen manipulation including sonication and tissue grinding, determination of appropriate culture media for different specimen types and plating. The Specimen Processing Technician follows regulatory, accreditation, safety and hospital standards, policies and procedures, and participates in quality assurance and quality improvement activities.Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions
  • Creates Registration encounters, releases orders out of HIS when indicated; receives samples in LIS; prints barcode labels and affixes labels to specimens.
  • Completes order entry functions or paperwork as required. Ensures proper container type, centrifugation, specimen sterility, and transport conditions for specimens.
  • Ensures positive patient identification, correct specimen collection and handling/transport; performs specimen processing duties and prioritizes based on urgency
  • Ensures the specimen and orders received are appropriate for requested testing. Prioritizes specimens based on clinical urgency. - Performs specimen processing duties including but not limited to: aliquoting urine and body fluid samples, supply storage, Kanban supply, inventory monitoring and storing patient samples appropriately.
  • In Microbiology, uses sterile techniques to handle, manipulate, and inoculate specimens on to culture media, including but not limited to determination of selecting the correct culture media based on specimen, order and protocols, sterile aliquoting, sonification and tissue grinding.
  • Assists in pathology specimen preservation, by adding formalin to specimens, and/or paging residents or providers as needed.
  • Fields inquiries and communicates information in written and verbal formats. Answers the phone and provides customer service to internal and external customers following established standards.
  • Consults Specimen Processing Coordinator, supervisor or lab leadership when appropriate.
  • Assists other staff with processing questions or automation line issues.
  • Assists with training new hires, students, or medical students, if applicable.
  • Disposes of bio-hazardous materials, chemical waste, sharps and other potentially hazardous materials according to policy and strictly adheres to safety and infection control procedures. Uses and wears PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as necessary to perform job duties safely and minimize risk.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
  • These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Required Education and Experience
  • High School Graduate
  • 6 months of experience in a clinical laboratory - working with biological specimens

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Completion of a Phlebotomy program
  • 1 or more years of experience in specimen collection and processing.

Required Licensure and Certification
  • If required by position to be filled, must obtain Department of Transportation and International Air Transportation Association certification within 180 Days

Time Type:Full timeJob Requisition ID:R-55402Important information for you to know as you apply:

  • The health system is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected status. See also Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

  • The health system provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need to request reasonable accommodations for your disability as you navigate the recruitment process, please let our recruiters know by requesting an Accommodation Request form using this link asktalentacquisition@kumc.edu.

  • Employment with the health system is contingent upon, among other things, agreeing to the health-system-dispute-resolution-program.pdf and signing the agreement to the DRP.

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About University of Kansas Health System

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Operating within the healthcare industry, The University of Kansas Health System is a renowned medical institution located in Kansas City, KS, United States. Established in 1905, this not-for-profit health system has evolved to offer an extensive range of products and services, which spans across a variety of specialist areas such as cancer care, neurology, cardiology, and organ transplants, among others. The core mission of The University of Kansas Health System is to enhance the health and wellness of individuals and communities by providing world-class healthcare services, quality education and conducting advanced research. They are also known for their unwavering commitment to academic medicine, which sets them apart from their peers.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, KS, US

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