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Specimen Processing Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Prosperity Workforce Solutions

Phlebotomist

Radnor, PA

$23 - $24/hr

The Phlebotomist also performs specimen processing, manages laboratory documentation and patient information systems, and supports daily laboratory operations in compliance with organizational ...

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Specimen Processing information

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$13

$18

$22

How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing in Pennsylvania is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a specimen processor?

To become a specimen processor, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with handling biological samples; some positions may require on-the-job training or certification in safety protocols. Experience with laboratory equipment and good communication skills can improve job prospects.

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 accuracy in data entry are essential for efficient 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 does specimen processing do?

Specimen processing involves preparing biological samples such as blood, tissue, or fluids for laboratory analysis. This includes tasks like labeling, centrifuging, and storing specimens to ensure accurate testing results, often requiring attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.

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 is the highest paying laboratory job?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Medical Laboratory Scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certifications, and they oversee laboratory operations and compliance, commanding higher compensation than entry-level or technician roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania? For Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processing jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Specimen Processing jobs near you
Technical Lab Associate - Specimen Processing Area

Technical Lab Associate - Specimen Processing Area

Penn State Health

Hershey, PA • On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Penn State Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 248 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

374th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Penn State Health - Hershey Medical Center
Location: US:PA: Hershey
Work Type: Full Time
FTE: 1.00
Shift: Evening
Evening Shift Differential: $2.00/hour
Hours: 3:00p - 11:30p weekdays, rotate weekends and holidays
Recruiter Contact: Hector Diaz at hdiaz1@pennstatehealth.psu.edu
SUMMARY OF POSITION:
Responsible for receiving laboratory specimens, ensuring specimen identity and acceptability; entering orders for laboratory testing into the Lab Information System; and entering patient demographic and insurance information into the patient registration system. Prepares specimens for analysis. Answers telephone and provides information related to specimen requirements, test availability, specimen testing status; provides laboratory results. Prepares specimens for referral to outside reference laboratories and insures that all storage requirements are met.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S):
  • High School Diploma or equivalent education required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S):
  • Six (6) months job related experience preferred

WHY PENN STATE HEALTH?
Penn State Health offers exceptional opportunities to learn and grow, exposure to a wide patient population, and the ability to provide individualized, innovative, and specialized care to patients in the community.
Penn State Health offers an exceptional benefits package including medical, dental and vision with no waiting period as well as a Total Rewards Program that highlights a few of the many additional offerings below:
  • Be Well with Employee Wellness Programs, and Fitness Discounts (University Fitness Center, Peloton).
  • Be Balanced with Generous Paid Time Off, Personal Time, and Paid Parental Leave.
  • Be Secured with Retirement, Extended Illness Bank, Life Insurance, and Identity Theft Protection.
  • Be Rewarded with Competitive Pay, Tuition Reimbursement, and PAWS UP employee recognition program.
  • Be Supported by the HR Solution Center, Learning and Organizational Development and Virtual Benefits Orientation, Employee Exclusive Concierge Service for scheduling.

WHY PENN STATE HEALTH MILTON HERSHEY MEDICAL CENTER?
Penn State Hershey Medical Center is Central Pennsylvania's only Academic Medical Center, Level 1 Regional Adult and Pediatric Trauma Center, and Tertiary Care Provider. As a four-time Magnet-designated hospital, Hershey Medical Center values the hard work and dedication that our employees exhibit every day. Through our core values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, and Excellence, our employees are a team committed to compassionate care for our diverse patient population, our community and each other. As a valued team member, we promote continued professional development, specialty certification, continuing education, and career growth.
YOU TAKE CARE OF THEM. WE'LL TAKE CARE OF YOU. State-of-the-art equipment, endless learning, and a culture of excellence - that's Penn State Health. But what makes our healthcare award-winning? That's all you.
This job posting is a general outline of duties performed and is not to be misconstrued as encompassing all duties performed within the position. Eligibility for shift differential pay based on the terms outlined in company policy or union contract. All individuals (including current employees) selected for a position will undergo a background check appropriate for the position's responsibilities.
Penn State Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected class including disability or veteran status. Penn State Health's policies and objectives are in direct compliance with all federal and state constitutional provisions, laws, regulations, guidelines, and executive orders that prohibit or outlaw discrimination.
Union: Non Bargained

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About Penn State Health

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Penn State Health is one of the leading teaching and research hospitals in the country. It is a multi-hospital health system, Academic Medical Center and Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma center serving patients and communities across Central Pennsylvania. The system includes Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State Children's Hospital, and Penn State Cancer Institute in scenic Hershey, PA. It also includes Penn State Health Saint Joseph's Medical Center in Reading, PA, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill, PA, and Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center in Enola, PA. Penn State Health shares an integrated strategic plan and operations with Penn State College of Medicine.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Hershey, PA, US

Year founded

1963

Social media

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