ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Specimen Processor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CYNET SYSTEMS

Phlebotomist II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Experience with specimen processing and documentation. Responsibilities: * Perform daily activities accurately and on time under the direction of the supervisor. * Maintain a safe and professional ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsSpecimen Processor JobsSpecimen Processor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Specimen Processor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$18

$23

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Chicago, IL is $18.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.85 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Specimen Processor job openings:

Specimen Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,635 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Clinical Lab Assistant-Central Specimen Receiving, Full-time Night Shift

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.81/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Northwestern Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 392 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

129th of 893 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Company Description
At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?
Job Description
The Clinical Lab Assistant I reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
Scheduling:
This position is regularly scheduled to work full-time, 40 hours weekly, on the overnight shift. Shift times are subject to change based upon departmental/patient care needs. However, this position is currently anticipated to work from 10pm-6:30am. There is also a weekend and holiday rotation associated with this role.
Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with the main lab staff, other ancillary departments, departments, nurses and providers to ensure excellent patient care.
  • Receives specimens into the laboratory information system.
  • Inputs and retrieves lab results in laboratory or hospital computer system.
  • Register specimen dropoffs (e.g. Home health) in LIS assuring accurate data entry.
  • Distributes specimens to the appropriate testing area.
  • Identifies and solves problems utilizing appropriate resources with the assistance of a supervisor, manager, pathologist and/or coworkers when appropriate.
  • Accurately performs waived testing under the direction of CLS as applicable
  • Ensures appropriate sample type received for testing ordered, including appropriate container, volume.
  • Communicates specimen rejections, critical/notifiable results to appropriate clinical personnel and completes required documentation.
  • May review/record refrigerator temperature(s) and QC/QA records. Areas of concern are recorded through the Corrective Action Log and reported to maintenance for repair.
  • Adheres to lab procedures with following up on outstanding orders including time-sensitive draws/charges
  • Pull AP slides for second opinion requests and log material back into Epic when material is returned
  • Answers phone calls to the laboratory and triages appropriately
  • Coordinates courier pickups as needed.

Department Specific:
  • May perform phlebotomy and other lab specimen collections per age related standards as required

Qualifications
Required:
  • High School Diploma

Preferred:
  • 1 year of experience in a general lab, specimen processing or phlebotomy department

Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.

What Northwestern Medicine employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply