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Specimen Processing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Labcorp

Laboratory Specimen Processor

Itasca, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $18.50/hr

High school diploma or equivalent Preferred Qualifications * 3 months or more of specimen processing experience * 3 months or more of medical or laboratory experience Additional Job Standards

Labcorp

Laboratory Specimen Processor

Itasca, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $18.50/hr

High school diploma or equivalent Preferred Qualifications * 3 months or more of specimen processing experience * 3 months or more of medical or laboratory experience Additional Job Standards

CYNET SYSTEMS

Specimen Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$12 - $17/hr

Perform general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department. * Conduct data entry tasks with a required speed of 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes/hour. * Handle A-station, presort ...

King's Daughters

Specimen Processor

Campus, IL

$16 - $18.50/hr

Job Summary Responsible for providing general specimen processing and clerical support for Laboratory Services. Ensures accurate handling and documentation of laboratory specimens. Coordinates ...

King's Daughters

Specimen Processor

Campus, IL · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

Job Summary Responsible for providing general specimen processing and clerical support for Laboratory Services. Ensures accurate handling and documentation of laboratory specimens. Coordinates ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Processor

Winfield, IL · On-site

$18 - $23.98/hr

The Hospital Specimen Preparation Technician (HSPT) is responsible for daily preparation of patient ... Develops understanding of the company processes, as well as the client expectations. * Develops ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Processor

Urbana, IL · On-site

$17.20 - $22.34/hr

The Hospital Specimen Preparation Technician (HSPT) is responsible for daily preparation of patient ... Develops understanding of the company processes, as well as the client expectations. * Develops ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Specimen Technician

Winfield, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Experience in processing is required. * FLU vaccine required. * Hospital credentials also required ... and understand specimen types related to test(s) ordered by client. * The SPT I must have the ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.50 - $21.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

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All JobsSpecimen Processing JobsSpecimen Processing Jobs in Illinois

Specimen Processing information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing in Illinois is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in a Specimen Processing role, and how can they be managed?

Specimen Processing professionals often handle a high volume of samples and must adhere to strict protocols to ensure accuracy and prevent contamination. Common challenges include managing time effectively during peak hours, maintaining attention to detail when labeling and documenting specimens, and communicating clearly with laboratory staff to resolve discrepancies. Staying organized, following standard operating procedures, and utilizing checklists can help manage these challenges and maintain the quality of work.

What is specimen processing?

Specimen processing refers to the preparation, labeling, and organization of biological samples—such as blood, urine, or tissue—collected for laboratory analysis. Professionals in this role receive, verify, and log specimens, ensure they are correctly identified, and prepare them for testing or transport. This process is critical for maintaining sample integrity and ensuring accurate laboratory results. Specimen processors may also handle basic data entry and follow strict safety and quality protocols to prevent contamination.

What skills are needed for specimen processing?

Specimen processing requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and knowledge of laboratory procedures. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, proper handling and safety protocols, and the ability to follow precise instructions are essential for accurate specimen management.

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, basic laboratory knowledge, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode labeling, and specimen handling procedures is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, time management, and effective communication help you excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate specimen identification, timely processing, and support overall laboratory efficiency and patient safety.

What is the difference between Specimen Processing vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectSpecimen ProcessingLaboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferredHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification varies by specialty
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, clinicsLaboratories, hospitals, research facilities
Job FocusPreparing and labeling specimens for testingPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining equipment
Common UsageSpecimen handling and preparationConducting laboratory tests and procedures

While both roles are essential in laboratory settings, Specimen Processing primarily involves preparing and handling samples for testing, whereas Laboratory Technicians perform the actual testing and analysis. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the healthcare and laboratory industry.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In specimen processing or related laboratory roles, earning $10,000 a month without a degree is uncommon; such high salaries typically require specialized skills, certifications, or experience. Most entry-level specimen processing jobs pay less, but advanced positions in medical or research laboratories with certifications and experience can reach higher salaries, especially in management or specialized technical roles.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the field of specimen processing, high-paying roles such as senior laboratory managers or specialized pathologists can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Generally, roles in healthcare, biotechnology, or medical research that require advanced degrees and technical expertise tend to offer higher salaries in this range.

How to become a specimen processor?

To become a specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to handle biological materials safely. Training is often provided on the job, and familiarity with laboratory procedures and equipment can be beneficial. Certification is not usually required but can improve job prospects in some settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois? For Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processing jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Specimen Processing jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Specimen Processing job openings:
Specimen Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,314 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Specimen Processing Supervisor

Specimen Processing Supervisor

Prime Healthcare

Evanston, IL • On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Prime Healthcare rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

635th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

  • Department: Specialty Lab
  • Schedule: Full Time Days 8a-4:30p
  • Facility: Prime Healthcare St Francis Hospital
  • Location: Evanston, IL 60201

The Specimen Processing Supervisor is responsible for the day-to-day operational and technical supervision of the Specimen Processing (Pre-Analytical) section within the Core Laboratory.

This individual: 1) oversees high-volume specimen receipt, accessioning, labeling, processing, and distribution to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant handling of all specimens 2) ensures adherence to CLIA regulations, proper specimen integrity, and efficient workflow across multiple hospital sites and outreach clients 3) under the direction of the General Laboratory Manager, provides frontline leadership by coordinating daily operations, supervising staff, resolving pre-analytical issues, and supporting standardized processes across the health system.


EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING


1. BLS certification upon hire and maintain current, based on hospital requirements.
2. Minimum of three (3) years of clinical laboratory experience, required.
3. Minimum of one (1) year of previous supervisory/management/lead experience, preferred.


Saint Francis Hospital offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package that provides employees the flexibility to tailor benefits according to their individual needs. Our Total Rewards package includes, but is not limited to, paid time off, a 401K retirement plan, medical, dental, and vision coverage, tuition reimbursement, and many more voluntary benefit options. A reasonable compensation estimate for this role, which includes estimated wages, benefits, and other forms of compensation, is $48,505.60 to $65,291.20 on an annualized basis. The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire, in which a wide range of factors will be considered, including but not limited to, skillset, years of applicable experience, education, credentials and licensure.

The company is dedicated to empowering its staff with a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, allowing them the freedom to customize their benefits to fit their unique needs. Our abundant resources, programs, and voluntary options serve as a foundation for individual growth and well-being. Learn more here: https://www.primehealthcare.com/benefitsthatmattermost/


Full Time
Days

Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

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