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Specimen Processor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Specimen Technician

Winfield, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Experience in processing is required. * FLU vaccine required. * HOSPITAL CREDENTIALS ALSO REQUIRED. Responsibilities: * Perform general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department.

Specimen Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$12 - $17/hr

Perform general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department. * Conduct data entry tasks with a required speed of 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes/hour. * Handle A-station, presort ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.50 - $21.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.50 - $21.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $18.50 - $21.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Specimen Technician

Winfield, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Experience in processing is required. * FLU vaccine required. * Hospital credentials also required ... and understand specimen types related to test(s) ordered by client. * The SPT I must have the ...

Specimen Accessioner

Morton, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

SPECIMEN ACCESSIONER - Peoria, IL American Health Associates is the nation's largest clinical ... Process and accession laboratory samples for in-house testing and reference lab testing. • Must ...

Specimen Accessioner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

The Specimen Accessioner position includes functions such as matching patient information, scanning documents, and interdepartmental communication. These activities will be performed under CLIA/CAP ...

New

Specimen Accessioner

Morton, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

SPECIMEN ACCESSIONER - Peoria, IL American Health Associates is the nation's largest clinical ... Process and accession laboratory samples for in-house testing and reference lab testing. • Must ...

Specimen Accessioner

Morton, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Process and accession laboratory samples for in-house testing and reference lab testing. Must be ... Ensures specimen stability and identify specimen errors and follow procedures to correct problems ...

Specimen Accessioner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

The Specimen Accessioner position includes functions such as matching patient information, scanning documents, and interdepartmental communication. These activities will be performed under CLIA/CAP ...

New

Demonstrates excellent proficiency in test ordering policies, hospital processing procedures, specimen requirements for test ordering, sample preparation, Quantum, and compliance/legal requirements.

Perform and follow all pre-analytical processing procedures with accuracy and in a timely manner. * Demonstrate proficiency in test ordering policies, hospital processing procedures, specimen ...

Hospital Specimen Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$12.20 - $17.20/hr

Perform and follow all pre-analytical processing procedures with accuracy and in a timely manner. Demonstrate proficiency in test ordering policies, hospital processing procedures, specimen ...

Showing results 21-40

Specimen Processor information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Illinois is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.69 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.

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

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

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

The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Specimen Processor job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,314 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Specimen Accessioner

Simple Laboratories, LLC

Harwood Heights, IL • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Simple Laboratories is looking for a Full-time Accessioner/Lab Assistant I responsible for receiving and processing biological specimens such as blood, urine, etc. that are submitted for laboratory testing. Functions performed typically include data entry of lab requests, labeling patient specimens, and other pre-analytic tasks in preparation for laboratory testing, according to standard operating procedures. Additional support tasks such as inventory management may be assigned.
Work Shift: Overnight | Tuesday to Saturday 8:00 PM - 6:30 AM
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Provide training, support, and guidance to Lab Associate 1 staff on essential job functions.
  • Serve as primary point of contact for resolution of questions or concerns from other employees, particularly those outside the Laboratory.
  • Monitors TAT and assigns LA I staff as needed to meet expectations.
  • Provide feedback to Laboratory management regarding potential/ongoing process or employee issues within Specimen Processing
  • Process clinical laboratory specimens with an emphasis on accuracy, timeliness, completeness, and compliance.
  • Confirm client, patient, and specimen details to ascertain adequacy and appropriateness of specimens.
  • Data enter test requests into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and apply appropriate barcoded labels to patient specimens or scan pre-existing barcodes.
  • Ensure that specimens are labeled appropriately; escalate discrepancies for resolution as needed.
  • Centrifuge and/or aliquot specimens as required.
  • Pre-sort specimens for delivery to technical departments.
  • Retrieve specimens from storage as necessary for add-on testing.
  • Handle and dispose of all specimens following biohazardous waste precautions and applicable safety policies.
  • Ensure clean, decontaminated workspaces per Safety protocols.
  • Investigate and resolve specimen issues or test issues to ensure timely and accurate reporting of results.
  • Consult with technical departments regarding acceptability of patient specimens as needed; coordinate with Problem Resolution team for recollection as needed.
  • Perform required maintenance on Specimen Processing equipment such as centrifuges, printers, incubators, freezers, and refrigerators, document appropriately.
  • Maintain accurate and complete records of problems and resolutions related to specimen processing, inventory, and equipment.
  • Meet or exceed all performance expectations to include attendance and adherence to work schedule.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to learn the job duties assigned to the Laboratory Assistant II and develop an understanding of the overall functions within the Laboratory
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong data entry and organizational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to interact with peers professionally and positively, clients, and other staff.
  • Ability to multitask and maintain focus within a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to problem-solve as needed.
  • Ability to learn policies and procedures and apply them in the workplace.
  • Comfortable handling potentially infectious biological specimens; adherence to all applicable PPE and other Laboratory Safety policies

WORK SPECIFICATIONS AND CONDITIONS
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
  • Continuous sitting, standing, and walking in the performance of job duties
  • Laboratory equipment such as incubators, refrigerators, freezers, liquid handlers, and extraction instruments
  • Desktop computer and associated peripherals
  • Regular exposure to potentially infectious biological specimens

About Simple Laboratories LLC
Simple Laboratories provides laboratory diagnostic testing and related services in the Midwest of the United States. Certified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments program (CLIA), Simple Laboratories is a full-service, clinical laboratory offering a comprehensive test menu and wide-ranging services to support independent healthcare facilities such as primary care and specialty physician offices, immediate care / urgent care facilities, FQHC / community health centers, hospitals, etc. The company specializes in routine testing services, including blood chemistry analysis, urinalysis, blood cell count, thyroid testing, pap testing, HIV / STI testing, and microbiology culture / procedure.
The company is headquartered in the Chicago area. We have a dedicated and passionate team of lab technicians, specimen processors, technology, sales and administrative staff throughout Illinois and Indiana and are looking for a candidate who can make an impact on the organization. Our employees are engaged and want to make a difference in the world through teamwork and collaboration.
Pay Range: $16 per hour