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Specimen Processing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.58+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.58+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.58+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.58+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.58+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.58+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.72/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.58+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all ...

Riverside Health System

Lab Support Tech

Gloucester, VA · On-site

The Laboratory Support Tech III receives, labels, performs advanced specimen processing, and distributes specimens to the appropriate work area in preparation for laboratory analysis. This position ...

Riverside

Lab Support Tech

Gloucester, VA

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

The Laboratory Support Tech III receives, labels, performs advanced specimen processing, and distributes specimens to the appropriate work area in preparation for laboratory analysis. This position ...

HCA Healthcare

Microbiology Technician

Tuckahoe, VA · On-site

Microbiology Technician Job Summary and Qualifications What qualifications you will need: · Ensure timely and compliant specimen processing and testing, adhering strictly to department policies ...

HCA Healthcare

Microbiology Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

Microbiology Technician Job Summary and Qualifications What qualifications you will need: · Ensure timely and compliant specimen processing and testing, adhering strictly to department policies ...

Actalent

Phlebotomist

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Clearly and courteously explain venipuncture and other specimen collection procedures to patients before and during the process. * Match laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes to ensure ...

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Specimen Processing information

See Virginia salary details

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$17

$22

How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing in Virginia is $17.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.12 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Specimen Processing jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processing jobs in Virginia? For Specimen Processing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processing jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Specimen Processing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Specimen Processing job openings:
Specimen Processing jobs near you
Specimen Technician I

Specimen Technician I

Quest Diagnostics

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$15.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

ExamOne rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description


Specimen Technician I - Chantilly, VA, Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Do you have strong organization skills and attention to detail? Are you looking to join a Fortune 500 company leading the world in providing diagnostic information services to kick start your career? Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team!
Pay range: $18.58+ per 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!

Responsibilities
Job Responsibilities:
  • Data entry of test orders, presort, pickup and delivery of processed specimens to the laboratory, centrifugation and aliquoting
  • Process specimens to be sent out to additional facilities
  • Prepare laboratory specimens for various analysis and testing
  • Identifies problems and in some cases, may resolve issues with specimen types such as missing information etc.
  • Understands the relationship between tests ordered and specimen received

Qualifications
Qualifications:
  • HS diploma or equivalent
  • No experience required
  • Previous experience in a production or medical environment preferred
  • Must have flexibility, majority of work on the nightshift, but based on staffing needs weekends, holidays, on call and overtime may be required

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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