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Specimen Processing Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARL

Specimen Processing Specialist

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Specimen Processing Specialist - Accessioning Position Summary... Join a company where you can make ... Technician. And... we'll teach you everything you need to know. No prior experience or training ...

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How much do specimen processing technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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 is a specimen processing technician?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a specimen processing technician?

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 are 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.

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.

How do I become a specimen processing technician?

To become a specimen processing technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue postsecondary training or certification in laboratory procedures or medical technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory safety protocols, and familiarity with specimen handling and processing tools. Some positions may require on-the-job training or experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
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Specimen Processing Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,475 per year, or $18 per hour.

Specimen Processing Group Lead

Quest Diagnostics

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$18.36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 121 rated laboratories

Job description


Specimen Processing Group Lead - Roanoke, VA, Monday to Friday, 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM
Pay range: $18.36 - $27.54 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

This position assists the department supervisors by performing combinations of the following activities: Schedule coordination, general supervision of all Specimen Technicians, providing input to supervisors for performance review and disciplinary action. The Group leader typically leads 8 - 12 employees, is involved in process and compliance audits and may be responsible for performing duties listed below. Priority consideration given to internal candidates for this position.
Responsibilities
  • Demonstrates a proficiency and understanding of all job duties in Specimen Processing department
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem resolution skills; ability to work effectively with the technical departments to resolve problems and gain cooperation as needed
  • Assists all SPT's in proper test selection and problem resolution
  • Answers and clarifies employee questions (including laboratory personnel) regarding processing
  • Provides appropriate feedback to supervisor(s) when problems arise.
  • Completes appropriate shift paperwork, setting up for production, and insuring that their staff has cleaned up at the end of the shift
  • Monitors supply inventory, ordering supplies as needed
  • Repairs and maintains department equipment notifying appropriate personnel when repairs beyond the general scope are required
  • Assists in or performing all training, cross training and department auditing functions as assigned by the supervisor(s)
  • Perform all other job duties as assigned
  • In addition to above, the group leader may assist the supervisor(s) in the following:
  • Prioritizing work assignments
  • Monitoring production and activity of all SPT's in order to meet departmental deadlines
  • Coaching for improved performance by providing appropriate feedback and maintaining a positive work environment
  • Ensures effective employee utilization through workforce planning to include staffing weekends and holidays
  • Makes suggestions and recommendations to enhance workflow
  • Helps manage department overtime
  • Ensures that all Quest Diagnostics Incorporated and Specimen Processing policies and procedures are adhered to

Qualifications
"
Required Work Experience:
Internal candidates minimum of one year in SPT III/related role
Preferred Work Experience:
  • 3 years experience in a laboratory environment with Specimen Processing experience preferred.
  • Medical background preferred which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory

Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • Performs multiple tasks simultaneously and with interruptions, physical and mental stress
  • Works in a biohazard environment and practices good safety habits
  • Able to sit or stand for long periods

Skills:
  • PC skills including the ability to run reports & use to manage workflow; real-time thru-put
  • Maintains confidentiality at all times. Will have access to overall employee performance, may have knowledge of disciplinary actions up to, and including termination.
  • Demonstrates leadership by example, exhibiting good attendance, good decision making, and keep the team on task
  • Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment
  • Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability
  • Drives frequent employee interaction on the floor providing feedback, coaching, and guidance
  • Demonstrates excellent communication skills and ability to answer questions with both internal and external clients
  • Adheres to Quest Diagnostics core values, safety, and compliance policies and procedures
  • Works under pressure and assists department in maintaining productivity and quality goals
  • Ability to diffuse tense situations and applies good judgment when making decisions and resolving problems

Education
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Preferred)

Pursuant to code CA BPC 1269 under CLIA, any lab releasing results for California work must have at least a High School Diploma or equivalent.
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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