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Specimen Processor Jobs in Bakersfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Specimen Processor information

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How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Bakersfield, CA is $18.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $18.89 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 Bakersfield, CA?

The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Bakersfield, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 79% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,756 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Clinical Lab Scientist Southwest Facility

CommonSpirit Health

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


CommonSpirit Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 542 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

422nd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Founded in 1910, Dignity Health - Mercy Hospital is a 229-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Bakersfield, California. Serving nearly 90,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including Level II NICU, cancer care, womens health, and orthopedics. Additionally, Mercy Hospital Downtown & Mercy Hospital Southwest have been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. They are both Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Centers. Mercy Hospital Downtown offers the only inpatient Oncology Unit in Bakersfield while Mercy Hospital Southwest has the only Obstetric Emergency Department in Bakersfield.

One Community. One Mission. One California


As our Clinical Lab Scientist, you will be a critical diagnostic expert, performing complex laboratory tests to ensure accurate, timely results vital for patient diagnosis and treatment.
Every day, you will execute a wide range of analytical procedures across various lab disciplines (hematology, chemistry, microbiology, etc.). You'll analyze specimens, operate/maintain instruments, interpret results, and conduct quality control, providing crucial data for clinical decisions.
To be successful in this role, you must demonstrate a strong scientific foundation, advanced technical proficiency, exceptional problem-solving skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Your paramount commitment will be to accuracy and regulatory adherence.

  • Interacts with physician, nurses, ward clerks, phlebotomists, other clinical laboratory scientists and other health care professionals in the resolution of problems involving patient specimen collection and handling, appropriateness of specimens, clarification of orders and result reporting.
  • Consults with Clinical Laboratory Scientists, Laboratory Supervisors, Administrative Director of Laboratory Services, Medical Director of Laboratory Services, or Pathologists for policy clarification and problem resolution.
  • Operates lab computer system according to manuals in each department.
  • Familiarity and compliance with general laboratory safety practices, MSDS guidelines, State of California regulations and requirements, OSHA standards, CDC recommendation and universal precautions.
  • Participates in the clinical laboratory scientist teaching program to assist in the training of Clinical Laboratory Scientist students, MLT students, or other established programs.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

  • CA Clinical Lab Scientist
  • Must have the ability to speak, read and write English

Preferred Skills:

  • One year acute care hospital experience preferred
  • Above average communication and organizational skills
  • Ability to adapt to workload demands and function efficiently during difficult or emergency situations
  • Ability to maintain and operate laboratory equipment
  • Familiarity with medical terminology, basic computer terminology and data entry skills
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
  • American Society Clinical Path (CT ASCP)

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