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Specimen Processor Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $22-$25/hr Scrap Metal Processor We are looking for a dependable, hands-on Scrap Metal Processor to join our scrap yard team. This position is a great fit for someone who enjoys working ...

Scrap Metal Processor We are looking for a dependable, hands-on Scrap Metal Processor to join our scrap yard team. This position is a great fit for someone who enjoys working outdoors, staying active ...

Mobile Phlebotomist - Bellingham

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Manages his/her assigned shift to include meal breaks. • Follows all specimen preservation, patient preparation and specimen management processes and procedures as written without personal ...

Mobile Phlebotomist - Bellingham

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Manages his/her assigned shift to include meal breaks. • Follows all specimen preservation, patient preparation and specimen management processes and procedures as written without personal ...

Phlebotomy Supervisor

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$30.12 - $45.18/hr

Manage phlebotomy lab operations including specimen processing and send-outs. * Create and implement phlebotomy policies and procedures for the team. * Monitor and evaluate phlebotomy team ...

Manage phlebotomy lab operations including specimen processing and send-outs. * Create and implement phlebotomy policies and procedures for the team. * Monitor and evaluate phlebotomy team ...

Laboratory Assistant

Mount Vernon, WA · On-site

$24.32 - $36.19/hr

Process the tubes properly as required by the tests ordered. Specimen Accessioning: Properly labels tube and the appropriate requisition with the specimen number. Enters the patient demographics into ...

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Specimen Processor information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$14

$18

$23

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Bellingham, WA is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a specimen processor a good job?

A specimen processor is a healthcare support role responsible for preparing and handling biological samples in laboratories. It offers steady employment, typically requires attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols, and may involve shift work. Job satisfaction depends on individual interests in laboratory work and healthcare environments.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A specimen processor typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles in fields like sales, real estate, or certain skilled trades can reach that level without a degree, but they often require significant skill, effort, and sometimes licensing. Most laboratory or processing jobs pay less than this amount annually without advanced qualifications.

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.

How to become a specimen processor?

To become a specimen processor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must undergo on-the-job training to learn proper specimen handling, labeling, and processing procedures. Some employers prefer candidates with basic knowledge of laboratory safety and familiarity with medical terminology or laboratory equipment. Certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competence in specimen processing tasks.

What are specimen processors?

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 does a specimen processor do?

A specimen processor prepares biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue for testing by labeling, sorting, and ensuring proper storage. They operate laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and maintain accurate records to support diagnostic testing and analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

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 job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Bellingham, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Bellingham, WA are:
What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Specimen Processor job openings:
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Bellingham, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,952 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist

$19.50 - $28.93/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Title: Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist, MA-P

Location: FCN Laboratory Services 

City: Bellingham, WA - Float to FCN clinics located in Whatcom and Skagit County (Anacortes, Blaine, Ferndale, Lynden, Mount Vernon)

Position: Full-time 32-40 hours/week, variable shifts 7 days/week, non-exempt (hourly)

Compensation: The full wage scale is $19.50 - $28.93 per hour. We also offer a $3.00 per hour shift differential for eligible evening and weekend hours. Placement within the wage range is determined by the candidate’s relevant experience.

Benefits: At FCN, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and that of your family, with flexibility and quality care.

Health Benefits:

  • Three Medical plan options
  • Two Dental plans, including orthodontia for children and adults
  • Employer-paid Vision coverage for employee and family
  • Expanded Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and mental health programs, including wellness and discounted gym memberships
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Healthcare and Dependent Care
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with an employer contribution of $1,500 (pro-rated based on enrollment eligibility)
  • Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), up to $1,500 ($3,000 for family coverage)
  • Employer-paid Life/AD&D insurance with optional supplemental additional coverage including a guaranteed issue amount with no health questionnaire
  • Voluntary Accident and Hospital insurance plans with annual wellness benefits

*Eligibility for these benefits depends on your full-time or part-time status.

Time Off & Wellness:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Sick Leave (PSL), and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) to support your vacation, health, and personal needs
  • PTO, PSL, and EIB accrue starting on your first day, and you can use paid time off after the applicable days of employment
  • Full-time employees generally begin earning 18 days of PTO, increasing 33 days over time per our PTO policy.  You can rollover unlimited PTO hours into the next year.
  • PSL accrues at 1 hour per 40 hours worked
  • EIB accrues up to 32 hours per year (pro-rated based on hours worked) for both part-time and full-time employees, with a maximum of 480 hours

Retirement:

  • 401(k) plan with employer match, both Traditional and Roth options available
  • 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan
  • Free financial planning guidance to support your retirement goals

*Eligibility for these programs is based on your years of service and required hours.

Additional Benefits:

  • Eligibility for FCN applicable bonuses
  • Annual uniform allowance for clinical staff
  • Reimbursement of renewal fees for required licensure for clinical staff

Job Summary: The Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist independently perform venipuncture and capillary punctures on adult and pediatric patients. This position is responsible for phlebotomy and processing of appropriate samples for testing.

  • Prepares workspace with all essential supplies to efficiently process specimens.
  • Maintains organized and clean workspace.
  • Enters required information for specimen testing into the laboratory computer system such as the collection date & time
  • Ensures proper forms accompany specimens according to FCN Lab policy. Cancels and credits tests that cannot be collected, documents information in the computer, and notifies appropriate personnel.
  • Properly labels specimens in accordance with FCN Lab policy to provide accurately identified specimens.
  • Receives specimens at the laboratory and verifies that the specimen was handled correctly during transport to maintain the integrity of the specimen.
  • Processes specimens for analysis according to written protocols.
  • Assists in verifying that lab requisitions for specimens sent to the outside lab contain the correct test(s), date and time of collections and other specimen identifiers.
  • Acts as a resource person. Researches and investigates laboratory-related problems and follows through with solutions.
  • Support the lab by fulfilling the role of mentor, training, and a key resource for all new employees.
  • Completes and reports on special assignments as needed.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Medical Terminology.
  • Regulatory requirements applicable to the assigned function.
  • Policies, standards, procedures, tools and protocols applicable to the work unit and function.
  • Intermediate computer skills including Microsoft Windows OS, Microsoft.
  • Strong working knowledge of Outlook, data entry, and simultaneous use of multiple computer systems.
  • Manual dexterity and acuity necessary to prepare, screen and process specimens
  • Ability to concentrate for long periods, utilize good judgement, work accurately under pressure and handle stress to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to separate plasma and operate laboratory centrifuges
  • Proven ability to organize and prioritize workload.
  • Strong detail-orientation
  • Proficiency in typing
  • Ability to problem solve/troubleshoot issues.
  • Strong customer service both in person and via telephone.
  • Effective communication with providers, staff and patients.

About FCN: As an independent, locally owned, physician-run network of family medicine doctors, we are passionate about our community's well-being. We take the time to build strong, long-term relationships with our patients and our employees. We have 12 clinics and 3 urgent care centers in Whatcom and Skagit County, in a beautiful corner of northwest Washington where the mountains meet the sea. 

Education and Experience:

  • High School diploma or GED, or equivalent knowledge and skills obtained through a combination of education, training, and experience.
  • Completion of formal Phlebotomist training program
  • 1 or more years of experience in medical office/lab preferred
  • Active Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist (MA-P) licensure through the Washington State Department of Health.
  • Acquire and maintain BLS certification as per FCN BLS policy.

Physical Requirements:While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hand to finger coordination, handle or feel objects, tools or controls, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and listen attentively. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.

Immunization requirements:Employees are required to meet immunization standards in accordance with federal, state, and organizational health and safety guidelines, as applicable to the role. A simple process is in place for employees to request exemptions for medical or religious reasons.

Family Care Network is a Drug-Free, Equal Opportunity Employer