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Specimen Processor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

United Westlabs

$21 - $26/hr

Quickly and accurately, process specimen requisitions, carefully insuring that all relevant information is accurate and all tests requested are ordered. * Deliver reports and supplies and pick up ...

Adecco

Medical Assistant/22/HCD021

Colton, CA

$22 - $24.30/hr

Follow established specimen-handling, processing, packaging, and transportation requirements. * Provide compassionate, professional patient care throughout the laboratory process, including ...

Actalent

Phlebotomist III

Imperial, CA

$26.70 - $28/hr

Troubleshoot specimen collection and processing issues and identify opportunities for workflow improvement. * Record maintenance data and perform equipment cleaning and decontamination procedures.

Actalent

Phlebotomist III

Imperial, CA

$26.70 - $28/hr

Troubleshoot specimen collection and processing issues and identify opportunities for workflow improvement. * Record maintenance data and perform equipment cleaning and decontamination procedures.

Hanker Systems

Medical Assistant -OBGYN

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Conduct urine testing and specimen processing * Administer medications and immunizations * Assist physicians during OB/GYN examinations and procedures * Review laboratory results and assist with ...

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All JobsSpecimen Processor JobsSpecimen Processor Jobs in California

Specimen Processor information

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$17

$22

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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 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 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 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 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 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.

More about Specimen Processor jobs

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 are popular job titles related to Specimen Processor jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for 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?

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Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,985 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Specimen Collection Specialist (TX)

TruArc Health

Irvine, CA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Per diem

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The Specimen Collection Specialist will be conducting specimen collection and processing activities by adhering to all laboratory established practices and procedures at designated collection sites. The Specimen Collection Specialist is responsible in maintaining a safe and professional environment for staff and patients. This role is in Castle Hills, TX 

This is a Per-Diem role, working two 4-hour shift on Monday and Thursday from 9am-1pm (there is flexibility in the schedule)

Essential duties:

  • Confirm, verifies patient identification, and make necessary updated on the lab system.
  • Collect patient specimens using nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, nasal, or throat swabs.
  • Explains collection procedures to patients and answers any questions about the process.
  • Stores and prepares samples for transport.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and handle any issues that arise during the collection process.
  • Travel to site locations within Santa Ana and/or Orange County.
  • Set up and take down the testing site at the beginning and end of each workday.
  • Complies with all Laboratory Policies and Procedures.
  • Follows all required Safety Protocols (PPE, Universal Precautions, OSHA Standards).
  • Ensures that patient privacy and confidentiality is maintained.
  • Ensures that site has adequate supplies for continuous operation.
  • Greets all incoming individuals at the on-site location (employees, patients, and visitors).
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

  • EMT Certification
  • High School Diploma
  • Reliable Transportation
  • Clean driving record

Quality Skills and/or traits we are looking for:

  • Professionalism and discretion: handles a sensitive process with dignity and respect for patients in recovery
  • Calm, non-judgmental demeanor 
  • Strong attention to detail: accurate labeling, documentation, and collection procedures
  • High integrity and ethical standards: vigilant against sample tampering/substitution
  • Reliability and punctuality: critical for programs coordinating around pickups and scheduling windows
  • Comfort with bodily fluid handling 
  • Sharp observational skills
  • Basic EMR/computer literacy: accurately enters collection data into systems like Kipu
  • Confidentiality-minded: understands and respects HIPAA and patient privacy requirements (if not already well-versed, is a fast learner)

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