ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Specimen Processing Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

United WestLabs

Lead Specimen Processor

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.25/hr

Lead and coordinate the activities of specimen processing staff. * Provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback to team members. * Ensure adequate staffing and workflow coverage during all ...

United Westlabs

Lead Specimen Processor

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Lead and coordinate the activities of specimen processing staff. * Provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback to team members. * Ensure adequate staffing and workflow coverage during all ...

United Westlabs

Specimen Processor

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Specimen Processor Location: Tacoma, WA - St Joseph Hospital Hours: 9:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Position ... Other duties as assigned by the operations and processing management team Required Skills:

United WestLabs

Specimen Processor

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.25/hr

Specimen Processor Location: Tacoma, WA - St Joseph Hospital Hours: 9:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Position ... Other duties as assigned by the operations and processing management team Required Skills:

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 ...

Millennium Health

Specimen Collector

Seattle, WA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Specimen Collector Location: Seattle, WA Schedule: Flexible Full-Time and Part-Time roles available ... Process and package collections for shipping * Serve as an intermediary between the practice ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpecimen Processing JobsSpecimen Processing Jobs in Seattle, WA

Specimen Processing information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$20

$25

How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing in Seattle, WA is $20.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How do you become a specimen processing?

To become a specimen processing technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue post-secondary training or certification in laboratory procedures. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory safety protocols, and familiarity with specimen handling and processing tools. On-the-job training is common, and some roles may require certification from professional organizations.

What are the duties of a specimen processing?

A specimen processing technician is responsible for receiving, labeling, and preparing biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for laboratory analysis. They follow strict safety and quality protocols, operate laboratory equipment, and ensure proper storage and documentation of specimens to support accurate testing results.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,648 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Lead Specimen Processor

United WestLabs

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$17.75 - $20.25/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Location: St. Joseph Hospital, Tacoma WA
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Description:
The Lead Specimen Processor is responsible for overseeing the operations of the specimen processing area to ensure timely, accurate, and efficient handling of laboratory specimens. This role serves as a liaison between laboratory staff, couriers, and other departments, ensuring compliance with quality standards, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Oversight
    • Lead and coordinate the activities of specimen processing staff.
    • Provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback to team members.
    • Ensure adequate staffing and workflow coverage during all shifts.
Operational Duties
    • Monitor specimen intake, labeling, accessioning, and routing to appropriate testing departments.
    • Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to specimen integrity, labeling discrepancies, and test requisitions.
    • Maintain accurate records and logs of specimen processing activities.
    • Perform the duties of a courier if called upon
Quality & Compliance
    • Ensure adherence to laboratory policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
    • Participate in improvement initiatives.
    • Conduct audits and assist with corrective actions as needed.
Communication & Collaboration
    • Serve as the point of contact for internal and external inquiries related to specimen processing.
    • Collaborate with laboratory supervisors, couriers, and client services to resolve issues.
    • Communicate updates and changes in procedures to staff effectively.
Inventory & Equipment
    • Monitor and maintain inventory of supplies used in specimen processing.
    • Ensure equipment is functioning properly and coordinate maintenance or repairs.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in a science-related field preferred.
  • Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in a clinical laboratory or specimen processing environment.
  • Prior leadership or supervisory experience is strongly preferred.
  • Knowledge of laboratory information systems (LIS) and specimen handling protocols.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment.
Work Conditions
  • May require standing for extended periods and handling biological specimens.
  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
  • Shift work, weekends, and holidays are required.
Physical Requirements
  • Continuous sitting (up to 8 hrs/day)
  • Continuous walking/standing (up to 8 hrs/day)
  • Simple grasping with both hands
  • Fine manipulation with both hands, repetitive movement
  • Frequent lifting of 10 lb. or less
  • Continuous Typing
Additional Requirements
  • Clean driving record and the ability to provide proof of personal vehicle insurance
  • Applicants may be required undergo background and drug screening, in accordance with federal and state laws

false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

Apply