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Specimen Processing Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions; support ongoing education initiatives * Develop and implement systems for timely and accurate specimen disbursement; maintain knowledge of ...

Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions; support ongoing education initiatives * Develop and implement systems for timely and accurate specimen disbursement; maintain knowledge of ...

Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions; support ongoing education initiatives * Develop and implement systems for timely and accurate specimen disbursement; maintain knowledge of ...

Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions; support ongoing education initiatives * Develop and implement systems for timely and accurate specimen disbursement; maintain knowledge of ...

Part Time Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16.15 - $28.80/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter test results accurately and coordinate with vendor labs for timely reporting; manage special program specimens and home draw scheduling

New

Hospital Specimen Processor

Boston, MA · On-site

$21 - $26.88/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

Part Time Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16.15 - $28.80/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter test results accurately and coordinate with vendor labs for timely reporting; manage special program specimens and home draw scheduling

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

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

Part Time Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16.15 - $28.80/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter test results accurately and coordinate with vendor labs for timely reporting; manage special program specimens and home draw scheduling

Part Time Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16.15 - $28.80/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter test results accurately and coordinate with vendor labs for timely reporting; manage special program specimens and home draw scheduling

Specimen Processor

Milton, MA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-Time Specimen Processor BID-Milton is seeking a full-time Specimen Processor, the position is ... Performs pre-analytic processing procedures, and complete all associated documentation both written ...

Showing results 21-40

Specimen Processing information

See Boston, MA salary details

$14

$19

$24

How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing in Boston, MA is $19.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $19.86 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a specimen processing technician?

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 cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Specimen Processing jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Specimen Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,708 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

$16 - $29/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


UnitedHealth Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.   

Under the direction of a Supervisor or Manager, prepares specimens for screening. Will log, sort and organize specimens and triage specimens to respective departments.

Location: 152 Second Ave. Needham, MA 

Schedule: FT, 40 hours. Monday - Friday, 2pm - 10:30pm

Department: Laboratory

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Oversee handling, labeling, and preparation of lab specimens (blood, urine, swabs, cultures etc.) ensuring compliance with protocols
  • Maintain accurate tracking documentation and resolve specimen-related issues with vendor labs; escalate recurring problems as needed
  • Prepare and process samples for timely surgical pathology reporting
  • Train staff on specimen processing and system functions; support ongoing education initiatives
  • Develop and implement systems for timely and accurate specimen disbursement; maintain knowledge of specimen requirements and communicate updates to staff

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 6+ months of experience in a laboratory or medical setting (or equivalent collegiate science coursework such as Biology, Anatomy, etc.)
  • Ability to work Monday - Friday, 2pm - 10:30pm

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous data entry experience
  • Previous EPIC experience
  • Proven ability to maintain professional attitude and appearance at all times
  • Proven ability to be flexible and exercise good judgment when handling specimens
  • Proven excellent communication skills
  • Proven ability to work collaboratively as part of a team with coworkers as well as internal and external customers

    

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $16.00 to $29.00 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.  

    

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location, and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups, and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

    

   

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

   

UnitedHealth Group is a drug - free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

   

   

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