1

Specimen Processing Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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

Specimen Technician

Seattle, WA

$18 - $20.50/hr

Basic understanding of computers with a preferred knowledge of laboratory testing and/or laboratory specimen processing. Work Experience : No experience required but previous laboratory experience ...

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

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

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

next page

Showing results 1-20

Specimen Processing information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$20

$26

How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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.

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 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 cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Specimen Processing jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Specimen Processing job openings:

$28.36 - $40.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

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  


  • 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.

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). 


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.