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Specimen Processor Jobs in Dallas, TX (NOW HIRING)

Specimen Processor

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY Responsible for processing laboratory samples for testing or research. This includes checking specimen's information for accuracy, entering specimen information in to the Laboratory ...

Specimen Processor

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY Responsible for processing laboratory samples for testing or research. This includes checking specimen's information for accuracy, entering specimen information in to the Laboratory ...

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Specimen Processor information

See Dallas, TX salary details

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How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Dallas, TX is $17.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processor jobs in Dallas, TX? The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in Dallas, TX are:
What cities near Dallas, TX are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Dallas, TX with the most Specimen Processor job openings:
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Dallas, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,049 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Specimen Processor

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


UT Southwestern rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

WHY UT SOUTHWESTERN?
With over 75 years of excellence in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, UT Southwestern is committed to excellence, innovation, teamwork, and compassion. As a world-renowned medical and research center, we strive to provide the best possible care, resources, and benefits for our valued employees. Ranked as the number 1 hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth according to U.S. News & World Report, we invest in you with opportunities for career growth and development to align with your future goals. Our highly competitive benefits package offers healthcare, PTO and paid holidays, on-site childcare, wage, merit increases and so much more. We invite you to be a part of the UT Southwestern team where you'll discover a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and a rewarding career!
JOB SUMMARY
Responsible for processing laboratory samples for testing or research. This includes checking specimen's information for accuracy, entering specimen information in to the Laboratory Information system (LIS), as necessary, and ensuring the right department receives the specimen and information.

BENEFITS
UT Southwestern is proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Our benefits are designed to support your overall wellbeing, and include:

  • PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage
  • 100% coverage for preventive healthcare-no copay
  • Paid Time Off, available day one
  • Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
  • Paid Parental Leave Benefit
  • Wellness programs
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer
  • Learn more about these and other UTSW employee benefits!

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
Required
  • Education
    High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
Preferred
  • Experience
    Previous Specimen Processing experience

JOB DUTIES
  • Job knowledge. Labels and processes patient specimens accurately and distributes to appropriate areas of laboratory. Processes laboratory samples according to procedure. Centrifuges and prepares aliquots when needed. Maintains specimen requirements at all times according to protocol. Dispatches specimens to the main laboratory or other designated testing facility as per established procedure with fewer than 2 mislabeled specimen
  • Quality Orientation: Prints appropriate labels for specimen labeling. Ensures all tests on requisitions are accounted for in the ordering system. If necessary, contacts physician's office to obtain order clarification/verification prior to collecting specimens. Tracks every specimen to ensure specimen integrity, accounting particularly for those samples which must be transported to other locations with fewer than 3 occasions of errors involving maintaining specimen batches (opening, reconciling and closing).
    Prioritizes and organizes activities to achieve optimal and efficient patient care during daily operations. Maintains positive patient identification for all specimens collected, using defined protocols. Maintains patient confidentiality throughout all activities and communications.
  • Ensures specimens are processed according to specimen requirements and that all specimen requirements are met. Ensures specimen requirements are maintained during transportation and storage as per protocol with fewer than two instances of processing, aliquotting and archiving errors. Centrifuges and prepares aliquots when needed. Dispatches specimens to the main laboratory or other designated testing facility as per established procedure with fewer than two mislabeled specimens. Document all correct and accurate information in regard to the specimens collected to ensure best is being met daily and may receive specimen using Epic Beaker. May have to enter orders or look up orders in EPIC Beaker. May be required to contact the Core Laboratory for retrieval of specimens (e.g. for add-on test).
    Proficient in maintaining and utilizing the automation track in loading and unloading samples, and troubleshooting errors.
  • Monitors pneumatic tube system (if applicable) and ensures when tubes arrive, that specimens and/or reports are removed. Participates in process improvement activities. Logs specimen in archives for efficient retrieval. Maintains awareness of turn around expectations and organizes work duties to ensure expectations are met.
  • Ensures all tests are accounted for in the ordering system. If necessary, contacts physician's office or nurse to obtain order clarification/verification prior to collecting specimens. Tracks every specimen to ensure specimen integrity, accounting particularly for those samples which must be transported to other locations with fewer than three occasions of errors involving maintaining specimen batches (opening, reconciling and closing).
  • Supplies: Keeps area stocked with essential supplies. Keeps work area decontaminated with proper cleaning solutions and disposes of waste and trash in appropriate containers. Keeps work area well organized and free from clutter. Handles add-on requests according to established procedures.
  • Adheres to Patient Safety Goals as defined by UTSW, TJC, CAP, and other regulatory/accreditation agencies.
  • Utilizes the Risk Management and Process Improvement tools (Event Reports) in an accurate and timely way to identify issues concerning Quality Improvement and assists coworkers in this process as needed. Follows chain of command when reporting unsafe practices observed.
  • Actively participates in the review of the monthly schedule and work assignments in conjunction with the Supervisor/Coordinator. Know daily tasks and be accountable for the daily workflow, including the status of the phlebotomy tracker, work flow assignments, and priority test requests. Also, acts as a liaison/problem solver for phlebotomy issues.
  • Attendance Reports for work on the assigned days at the assigned times. Follows procedures regarding requesting and using leave in manner that consistently supports effective job performance.
  • Provides training to other Specimen Processors as needed. Monitors pending lists, including but not limited to the unreceived specimen list. Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

SECURITY AND EEO STATEMENT
Security
This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information.
EEO
UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.

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