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Specimen Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

South Shore Health

Lead Specimen Processor

Weymouth, MA · On-site

$20.44 - $27.51/hr

SSH Lab Specimen Processing Status: Full time Budgeted Hours: 40 Shift: Day (United States of America) Working directly under the Supervisor of Chemistry, Specimen Processing and Send-Outs, the Lead ...

South Shore Health

Lead Specimen Processor

Weymouth, MA

$20.44 - $27.51/hr

SSH Lab Specimen Processing Status: Full time Budgeted Hours: 40 Shift: Day (United States of America) Working directly under the Supervisor of Chemistry, Specimen Processing and Send-Outs, the Lead ...

ARL

Specimen Processing Specialist

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Specimen Processing Specialist - Accessioning Position Summary... Join a company where you can make a difference from day one and help make the world a better and safer place. ARL Bio Pharma provides ...

South Shore Health

Lead Specimen Processor

Weymouth, MA

$19.25 - $22.25/hr

Assures workflow is effective and efficient and specimen processing colleagues comply with applicable policies and procedures to support the provision of Laboratory services. Serves as a section ...

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Specimen Processing information

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$13

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How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processing in the United States is $18.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.27 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.
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Specimen Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,475 per year, or $18 per hour.
Specimen Processor

Specimen Processor

FirstHealth of the Carolinas, Inc.

Pinehurst, NC

$13.50 - $15.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

FirstHealth of the Carolinas rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

328th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview

Specimen Processor Job Summary

  • Performs laboratory specimen receiving, processing and distribution functions. Prepares, packages and ships Category A/B lab specimens to approved Reference labs.
  • Oversees some specimen collection directions, according to laboratory guidelines.
  • Performs patient data order entry and result distribution, in order to maintain efficient and productive operations of the laboratory.
  • Provides customer service support to phlebotomists, technical staff and laboratory clients. 
Qualifications

Specimen Processor Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required. Knowledge of medical terminology preferred; computer experience required.
  • Working knowledge of handling blood/body fluid and other laboratory specimens preferred, in accordance with infection control guidelines. Knowledge of specimen processing, phlebotomy, a background in science or an equivalent aptitude preferred. On the job training will be provided to a qualified candidate.

Valid Driver's License with good driving record to meet criteria to drive FirstHealth vehicle.

Employment Type: PART_TIME

What FirstHealth of the Carolinas employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About FirstHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

FirstHealth of the Carolinas is a private, Not for Profit Health care Network Headquartered in Pinehurst, NC. Its 6,100 Employees serve 15 counties in the mid Carolinas. Licensed for four hospitals with 610 beds, FirstHealth demonstrates a commitment to treating the whole patient and providing Quality Health care for the entire Community especially those in need. FirstHealth’s organizational culture is guided by its Core Purpose and Core Values and is committed to Patient Safety, Quality and Performance Excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pinehurst, NC, US

Year founded

1995

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