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Specimen Processor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Specimen Technician II

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$18.70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Specimen Technician II - San Juan Capistrano, CA, Monday to Friday, 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM This ... This position is involved in more complex processing which could include but not limited to A ...

Specimen Prep Technician

Sonora, CA

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

This position reports to Specimen Processing Supervisor, and takes direction from Senior Specimen Preparation Technicians, and Specimen Preparation Coordinators. PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT FACTORS ...

Specimen Accessioner

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in Riverside, CA. Work Schedule 3rd shift start times will vary as early as ...

New

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in San Diego, CA. Work Schedule: 3rd shift starts times will vary as early as ...

Specimen Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

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

Specimen Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

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

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in San Diego, CA . Work Schedule: 3rd shift starts times will vary as early as 7pm.

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA

$17.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in San Diego, CA . Work Schedule: 3rd shift starts times will vary as early as 7pm.

Specimen Accessioner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in San Diego, CA . Work Schedule: 3rd shift starts times will vary as early as 7pm.

Specimen Accessioner

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in Riverside, CA. Work Schedule: 3rd shift starts times will vary as early as 7pm.

Specimen Accessioner

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in Riverside, CA. Work Schedule: 3rd shift starts times will vary as early as 7pm.

Specimen Accessioner

Riverside, CA

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Labcorp is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join their Specimen Processing and Accessioning team in Riverside, CA. Work Schedule: 3rd shift starts times will vary as early as 7pm.

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant ...

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Specimen Technician I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$17.47/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.64 - $20.75 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Showing results 21-40

Specimen Processor information

See California salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in California is $17.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by specimen processors, and how can they be effectively managed?

Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of samples, ensuring accurate labeling, and maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality protocols. Mistakes in processing or labeling can have serious consequences, so attention to detail and effective time management are crucial. Many teams use barcode systems and double-check procedures to minimize errors, and ongoing communication with laboratory staff helps resolve any issues quickly. Being proactive in seeking guidance and staying organized greatly helps new processors adapt and succeed in this fast-paced environment.

What do specimen processors do?

Your duties as a specimen processor, or specimen accessioner, include organizing and cataloging medical specimen sample materials. You typically work in a healthcare laboratory or other clinical setting. Your responsibilities may go beyond receiving and recording patient samples, to storing the samples safely and according to designated processes, and taking any other steps necessary to prepare the samples for analysis by physicians or medical technicians. In some jobs, specimen processors may also collect samples and perform other preparation tasks such as putting blood samples through a centrifuge. These tasks may require additional education and training.

What is a specimen processor?

Specimen processors are healthcare professionals responsible for receiving, sorting, labeling, and preparing biological specimens—such as blood, urine, or tissue samples—for laboratory testing and analysis. They ensure that samples are handled accurately and according to strict protocols to maintain their integrity and prevent contamination. Specimen processors play a crucial role in the diagnostic process by helping ensure that test results are reliable and timely. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic laboratories, collaborating closely with laboratory technicians and other medical staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a specimen processor?

To thrive as a Specimen Processor, you need attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and specimen tracking software is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and efficient workflow. These skills are vital for maintaining specimen integrity and supporting accurate laboratory results in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Specimen Processor vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectSpecimen ProcessorLaboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in specimen handlingHigh school diploma or associate degree; often additional certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, focusing on specimen preparationLaboratory setting, performing tests and analyses
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic facilities
Common Search & ComparisonSpecimen Processor vs Laboratory Technician

While both roles work in laboratory environments, a Specimen Processor primarily handles specimen preparation and labeling, whereas a Laboratory Technician performs testing and analysis. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Specimen Processor job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processor jobs in CA?

For Specimen Processor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,985 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Specimen Technician II

Quest Diagnostics

San Juan Capistrano, CA • On-site

$18.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description


Specimen Technician II - San Juan Capistrano, CA, Monday to Friday, 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM
This position in Specimen Processing is responsible for knowing all of the functions of the SPT I, plus additional functions. This individual will have completed the necessary training consistent with local business unit practices for Specimen Processing and shows proficiency in the following areas: Test ordering policy, specimen requirements related to test ordering. Additionally, must meet accuracy and production standards, and must meet all the job accountabilities and job requirements/environment indicated in the SPTI job description. This position is involved in more complex processing which could include but not limited to A Station, Frozen, CPU (incl. hospital), and Micro.
Pay range: $18.24 - $21.09 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
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!

Responsibilities
  • Demonstrates proficiency in responsibilities of the SPT I
  • Meets/exceeds productivity and quality standards
  • Solves more complex problems on a routine basis
  • Demonstrates a basic understanding of how Specimen Processing impacts the testing laboratory
  • Identifies problems and in some cases, may resolve issues with specimen types such as missing information etc.
  • Understands the complex relationship between test(s) ordered and received
  • Completes all required written documentation, legibly and within the assigned time frame
  • Meets standards for production and accuracy within 3 months
  • Adheres to all Quest Diagnostics, Inc. policies and procedures, including safety and compliance.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Required Work Experience:
Internal candidates must have a minimum of 9 months experience and be meeting all performance standards in the SPT I role
Preferred Work Experience:
  • Medical background preferred which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory
  • Previous experience in a production environment preferred

Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • Position requires data background with abilities to enter 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes/hour
  • Works in a biohazard environment, practicing good safety habits
  • Able to sit or stand for long periods
  • Handles multiple tasks simultaneously and works in a production environment

Skills:
  • Communicates effectively with all levels of internal and external staff
  • Maintains composure while working under pressure
  • Keeps work area neat and clean
  • Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment
  • Demonstrates flexibility and is able to adapt to change

Education
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Preferred)

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with the following laws if applicable, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the California Fair Chance Act.
Quest believes that conviction records may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship to the following job duties: accessing company property, information, assets, and products including sensitive information; accessing customer data or confidential information, and partnering and regularly working with or supervising other Quest employees and interacting with Quest customers.
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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