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Specimen Processor Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

Novant Health

Pathology Technician I

Mount Pleasant, SC · On-site

FT Days Work Schedule: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Responsible for performing all specimen processing procedures in the Anatomic Pathology department, including, but not limited to specimen pickups, cytology ...

Novant Health

Medical Lab Assistant II

Mount Pleasant, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Specimen Processing, Handling & Safety: Complies with positive patient identification standards. When required of the role, performs appropriate collection techniques per test specifications and ...

Novant Health

Medical Lab Assistant II

Mount Pleasant, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Team member validates and processes specimens delivered to the laboratory, facilitating timely and appropriate specimen preparation for testing. Team member may be responsible for performing ...

Honorhealth

Phlebotomist

Osborn, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Interfaces with nursing in the absence of the Team Leader and Supervisor to resolve most complaints in phlebotomy, specimen receiving and processing and customer service. * Performs other duties as ...

Honorhealth

Phlebotomist

Osborn, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Interfaces with nursing in the absence of the Team Leader and Supervisor to resolve most complaints in phlebotomy, specimen receiving and processing and customer service. * Performs other duties as ...

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All JobsSpecimen Processor JobsSpecimen Processor Jobs in Charleston, SC

Specimen Processor information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$13

$17

$21

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Charleston, SC is $17.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $17.40 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.

More about Specimen Processor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processor jobs in Charleston, SC? For Specimen Processor jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Charleston, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Charleston, SC are:
What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Specimen Processor job openings:
Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Charleston, SC 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 $35,743 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Pathology Technician I

Pathology Technician I

Novant Health

Mount Pleasant, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Novant Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 446 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

331st of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

What We Offer
East Cooper Medical Center is one of South Carolina's leaders in healthcare. Our approach to medicine is designed to provide patients with successful outcomes, fast recovery times, and a better quality of life. Our hospital combines technology and clinical expertise with compassion to provide personalized care for a lifetime. Our expanded scope of services, our commitment to quality & safety, and our outstanding team of caregivers have attracted patients throughout the Lowcountry and beyond, and have contributed to or hospital being nationally recognized. Interested in joining our team? Apply today!
Facility: East Cooper Medical Center
Location: Mount Pleasant, SC
Department: Lab
Position Type: FT Days
Work Schedule: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Responsible for performing all specimen processing procedures in the Anatomic Pathology department, including, but not limited to specimen pickups, cytology processing, preparation of touch prep slides and smears, and STAT cutting sections of frozen tissue within defined turnaround times. Demonstrates knowledge of human tissue types and appropriate protocols. Provides support for specimen collection procedures including fine needle aspirations and bone marrow collection. Responsible for maintaining gross rooms, stain lines and restocking lab areas. Accurately and chronologically files slides and maintains slide filing with a constant in and out flux based on pathologist and customer needs. Ensures quality, productivity, and efficiency. Responsible for ensuring policies and procedures are followed. May be responsible for assisting in autopsy and preparing sections of body tissue for examination by a pathologist to diagnose body dysfunction and malignancy. This includes the preparation of tissue specimens of human origin for diagnostic or teaching purposes. Occasionally travels to community hospitals for assistance with frozen sections. Includes weekend and holiday on-call (rotating assignment).
What We're Looking For
  • Education: High School Diploma or GED, required. 2 Year / Associate Degree in Chemical, Physical or Biological Science, preferred.
  • Experience: One year of relevant pathology and/or cytology specimen processing experience, preferred.
  • Licensure/Certification:
    • Knowledge of current medical terminology to perform full range of laboratory tasks.
    • Knowledge of medical terminology to communicate with medical staff regarding laboratory procedures and results.
    • Skill in anticipating and reacting calmly to emergency situations.
    • Skill in developing and maintaining department quality assurance.
    • Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, hospital staff and the public.
    • Ability to follow written protocols.
    • Ability to follow written protocols.
    • Ability to work independently.
    • Ability to communicate clearly.

Why Choose Novant Health?
At Novant Health, we believe remarkable care starts with compassion for our patients, our communities, and each other. We value belonging, courage, personal growth, and teamwork, creating a space where everyone is respected, supported, and safe to show up as their full selves.
Job Opening ID
156823

What Novant Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Novant Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Novant Health is a not-for-profit integrated system of 16 medical centers and more than 1,900 physicians in over 800 locations, as well as numerous outpatient surgery centers, medical plazas, rehabilitation programs, diagnostic imaging centers and community health outreach programs. Novant Health's more than 36,000 team members and physician partners care for patients and communities in North Carolina and South Carolina.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Winston-Salem, NC, US

Year founded

1997

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