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Specimen Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Duke University

Specimen Processing - Microbiology

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

... specimen preparation and processing for analysis and dispatch, patient registration and order entry; and serve as hospital laboratory representative and liaison with outside clients. Job Duties

Duke University

Specimen Processing - Microbiology

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

... specimen preparation and processing for analysis and dispatch, patient registration and order entry; and serve as hospital laboratory representative and liaison with outside clients. Job Duties

Duke Health

Specimen Processing - Microbiology

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

... specimen preparation and processing for analysis and dispatch, patient registration and order entry; and serve as hospital laboratory representative and liaison with outside clients. Job Duties

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 ...

Labcorp

Specimen Processing Specialist II

Morristown, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

Labcorp is seeking a Specimen Processor II to join our team in Morristown, NJ. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 9:00am-5:30pm Job Responsibilities: * Prepare laboratory specimens for analysis and ...

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Specimen Processing information

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How much do specimen processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 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.

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.
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Specimen Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% 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 Processing Group Lead

Specimen Processing Group Lead

Quest Diagnostics

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$18.73/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 105 rated laboratories

Job description


Specimen Processing Group Lead - Indianapolis, IN, Monday to Friday, 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM, with rotational weekends
Pay range: $18.00+ per hour
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits Information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
• Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
• Best-in-class well-being programs
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
• healthyMINDS mental health program
• Vacation and Health/Flex Time
• 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
• FinFit financial coaching and services
• 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Annual incentive plans
• Matching gifts program
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
• Career advancement opportunities
• and so much more!
This position assists the department supervisors by performing combinations of the following activities: Schedule coordination, general supervision of all Specimen Technicians, providing input to supervisors for performance review and disciplinary action. The Group leader typically leads 8 - 12 employees, is involved in process and compliance audits and may be responsible for performing duties listed below. Priority consideration given to internal candidates for this position.
Responsibilities
  • Demonstrates a proficiency and understanding of all job duties in Specimen Processing department
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem resolution skills; ability to work effectively with the technical departments to resolve problems and gain cooperation as needed
  • Assists all SPT's in proper test selection and problem resolution
  • Answers and clarifies employee questions (including laboratory personnel) regarding processing
  • Provides appropriate feedback to supervisor(s) when problems arise.
  • Completes appropriate shift paperwork, setting up for production, and insuring that their staff has cleaned up at the end of the shift
  • Monitors supply inventory, ordering supplies as needed
  • Repairs and maintains department equipment notifying appropriate personnel when repairs beyond the general scope are required
  • Assists in or performing all training, cross training and department auditing functions as assigned by the supervisor(s)
  • Perform all other job duties as assigned
  • In addition to above, the group leader may assist the supervisor(s) in the following:
  • Prioritizing work assignments
  • Monitoring production and activity of all SPT's in order to meet departmental deadlines
  • Coaching for improved performance by providing appropriate feedback and maintaining a positive work environment
  • Ensures effective employee utilization through workforce planning to include staffing weekends and holidays
  • Makes suggestions and recommendations to enhance workflow
  • Helps manage department overtime
  • Ensures that all Quest Diagnostics Incorporated and Specimen Processing policies and procedures are adhered to

Qualifications
Required Work Experience:
Internal candidates minimum of one year in SPT III/related role
Preferred Work Experience:
  • 3 years experience in a laboratory environment with Specimen Processing experience preferred.
  • Medical background preferred which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory

Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • Performs multiple tasks simultaneously and with interruptions, physical and mental stress
  • Works in a biohazard environment and practices good safety habits
  • Able to sit or stand for long periods

Skills:
  • PC skills including the ability to run reports & use to manage workflow; real-time thru-put
  • Maintains confidentiality at all times. Will have access to overall employee performance, may have knowledge of disciplinary actions up to, and including termination.
  • Demonstrates leadership by example, exhibiting good attendance, good decision making, and keep the team on task
  • Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment
  • Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability
  • Drives frequent employee interaction on the floor providing feedback, coaching, and guidance
  • Demonstrates excellent communication skills and ability to answer questions with both internal and external clients
  • Adheres to Quest Diagnostics core values, safety, and compliance policies and procedures
  • Works under pressure and assists department in maintaining productivity and quality goals
  • Ability to diffuse tense situations and applies good judgment when making decisions and resolving problems

Education
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Preferred)

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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