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Specimen Processing Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Labcorp

Specimen Processor

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$21.65/hr

Introduce and prepare biological specimens to the laboratory to ensure accurate processing * Open ... Properly prepare and store excess specimen samples * Resolve and document any problem specimens

Labcorp

Specimen Processor

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$21.65/hr

Introduce and prepare biological specimens to the laboratory to ensure accurate processing * Open ... Properly prepare and store excess specimen samples * Resolve and document any problem specimens

Pride Health

Overnight Specimen Processor

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22.34/hr

Overnight Specimen Processing Technician Location : Seattle, WA 98134 Duration : 03-04 months Contract/ Likely to convert to FT based on performance Shift : Tues-Sat 1am-930am// Payrate : $21.30- 22 ...

Quest Diagnostics

Specimen Technician I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$18.20/hr

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $21.05 - $24.35 / 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 Seattle, WA

Specimen Processing information

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How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing in Seattle, WA is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $20.82 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 popular job titles related to Specimen Processing jobs in Seattle, WA? For Specimen Processing jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processing jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processing jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Specimen Processing jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Specimen Processing job openings:
Specimen Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% 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 $42,672 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Specimen Processing Specialist Lead

Specimen Processing Specialist Lead

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Seattle, WA • On-site

$28.36 - $40.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Job description

Overview
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit organization providing adult cancer treatment and groundbreaking research focused on cancer and infectious diseases. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch is the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Washington.
With a track record of global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy and COVID-19 vaccines, Fred Hutch has earned a reputation as one of the world's leading cancer, infectious disease and biomedical research centers. Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, proton therapy and related services, and network affiliations with hospitals in five states. Together, our fully integrated research and clinical care teams seek to discover new cures to the world's deadliest diseases and make life beyond cancer a reality.
At Fred Hutch we value collaboration, compassion, determination, excellence, innovation, integrity and respect. Our mission is directly tied to the humanity, dignity and inherent value of each employee, patient, community member and supporter. Our commitment to learning across our differences and similarities make us stronger. We seek employees who bring different and innovative ways of seeing the world and solving problems.
The Specimen Processing Services Specialist Lead (SPS Lead) serves as primary point of contact and resource for clinical laboratory specimen processing care functions within and outside of Fred Hutch. The role assists with lab operations, process improvements, training of other Specimen Processing Services Specialists, developing and maintaining relationships with other Fred Hutch departments and outside providers. Additionally, the role performs blood bank transfusion support and bone marrow aspiration assistance.
This Lead position is a 1.0 FTE, the Monday through Friday
Responsibilities
  • Processes specimens including centrifugation, aliquoting, and dispensing specimens to proper testing lab.
  • Supports blood bank transfusion services and bone marrow aspiration procedures.
  • Works efficiently to minimize patient wait times.
  • Ensures sample integrity until testing is performed.
  • Maintains effective and professional communication with patients, clients, co-workers, and Fred Hutch Cancer Center colleagues.
  • Records variances of standard policies and procedures in Patient Safety Net accurately and where required.
  • Participates in Quality Improvement/Quality Assurance programs and projects.
  • Proficient in the use of computer software including LIS and EMR systems, email, and applications in a Windows-based environment.
  • May be asked to cover alternative shifts or weekends as needed per staffing.
  • Assists with the coordination of daily workflow.
  • Troubleshoots and collaborates with other departments to resolve issues.
  • Participate in department and/or Fred Hutch process improvement initiatives.
  • Participate in training and mentoring of new employees.
  • Develops and maintains relationships with other departments within Fred Hutch.
  • Acts as a department resource for internal and external colleagues.
  • Identifies and applies new clinical, research and operational improvements to assure consistent and efficient lab services.
  • May develop and review department policies and procedures.
  • Performs annual competency assessments for assigned staff.
  • Coordinates daily workflow.

Qualifications
Required:
  • High school graduation or the equivalent
  • WA State Surgical Tech registration required if assisting with bone marrow collection
  • 18 months of Alliance Lab SPS competency or a minimum of 8 years Alliance Lab equivalent SPS experience.
  • Ability to communicate verbally in person, on the phone, and in writing in a clear, concise and professional manner.
  • Ability to organize and manage time and tasks independently.
  • Ability to problem solve.
  • Ability to work under pressure and adjust to changing workloads.
  • Ability to meet attendance and punctuality expectations.
  • Proficient in the use of computer software including LIS and EMR systems, email and applications in a Windows-based environment.
  • Demonstrates initiative as evidenced by advancing technical skills, sharing knowledge with others and taking on more responsibility.
  • Ability to provide constructive and effective feedback to other Specialists regarding the use of standard practices.
  • Knowledge of basic medical terminology.
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs.
  • Must be able to differentiate between colors and pass a standardized color vision screen to perform this role

Preferred:
  • Intermediate ability with MS Word and Excel.
  • EMR and LIS systems experience: EPIC/Cadence and Sun Quest.
  • Training or mentoring experience.
  • Leadership experience.
  • Daily operations coordination experience.

The hourly pay range for this position is from $28.36 to $40.37 and pay offered will be based on experience and qualifications.
This Lead position is a 1.0 FTE, the Monday through Friday
Although Fred Hutch is not sponsoring most H-1B visas at this time, candidates who already hold an H-1B sponsored by another organization and are currently in the U.S. may be eligible for this position.
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center offers employees a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance health, well-being, and financial security. Benefits include medical/vision, dental, flexible spending accounts, life, disability, retirement, family life support, employee assistance program, onsite health clinic, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation (12-22 days per year), paid sick leave (12-25 days per year), paid holidays (13 days per year), paid parental leave (up to 4 weeks).
Additional Information
We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We desire priority referrals of protected veterans. If due to a disability you need assistance/and or a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Human Resources at hrops@fredhutch.org or by calling 206-667-4700.

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