1

Specimen Processor Jobs in Elk Grove, CA (NOW HIRING)

Medical Laboratory Technician

Roseville, CA · On-site

$48.03 - $67.23/hr

Performs basic Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control and waived or moderate complexity testing (as classified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement ...

Medical Laboratory Technician

Roseville, CA · On-site

$48.03 - $67.23/hr

Performs basic Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control and waived or moderate complexity testing (as classified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement ...

Showing results 21-40

Specimen Processor information

See Elk Grove, CA salary details

$14

$18

$24

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Elk Grove, CA is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $19.18 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 popular job titles related to Specimen Processor jobs in Elk Grove, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Elk Grove, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,396 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Technician

Sutter Health

Roseville, CA • On-site

$48.03 - $67.23/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic procedures on biological specimens to aid in diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and prevention of disease.

  • Performs basic laboratory procedures such as phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control, and waived or moderate complexity testing.

  • Reports laboratory results in a timely and accurate manner.


Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 330 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!
Organization:
SRMC-Sutter Roseville Med Center
Position Overview:
Performs pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic procedures on biological specimens to aid health care providers in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and prevention of disease. Performs basic Laboratory procedures, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, quality control and waived or moderate complexity testing (as classified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment - CLIA). Reports lab results in a timely and accurate manner. If assigned to the Transfusion Service, performs moderate complexity testing within scope of license and other duties such as blood inventory management, blood product preparation, and issuing blood products for transfusion. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure patient privacy and maintain the highest level of safety and reliability in testing.
Note: An MLT may perform clinical laboratory tests or examinations classified as waived or of moderate complexity under CLIA, but not high complexity, and may report the test results. However, an MLT shall not perform microscopic analysis or immunohematology procedures, except for blood smear reviews other than manual leukocyte differentials, microscopic urinalysis, and blood typing of moderate complexity such as automated blood types (ABO/Rh) testing and antibody screen testing.
Job Description:
EDUCATION:
  • Associate's Degree or completion of a Medical Laboratory Technician program

CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE:
  • CA Licensed Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
  • Demonstrated knowledge and technical competence in routine specimen collection, preparation, testing applications, laboratory operations, and quality assurance in one or more assigned clinical specialty areas; examples: Chemistry, Special Chemistry, Hematology (no microscopy), Urinalysis (no microscopy) and Coagulation.
  • Quantity of Work: Ability to organize and prioritize job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected time-frames
  • Proficiency:
  • Quality of Work: Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks. Demonstrates sound judgment and problem solving relevant to assigned duties.
  • Proficiency:
  • Culturally Competent Communication: Ability to compassionately and effectively interact with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behaviors
  • Proficiency:
  • Workflow Management Ability to appropriately respond to: 1) fluctuations in volume; 2) unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or information systems failure; 3) shift-to-shift hand-offs; 4) STAT test orders; 5) specimen integrity issues 6) regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.
  • Proficiency:
  • Adherence to Practices and Procedures: Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence. Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.
  • Ability to use computers, including Microsoft Office suite, electronic mail, internet, etc.

Job Shift:
Evening/ Night
Schedule:
Per Diem/Casual
Shift Hours:
8
Days of the Week:
Variable
Weekend Requirements:
Every other Weekend
Benefits:
No
Unions:
No
Position Status:
Non-Exempt
Weekly Hours:
0
Employee Status:
Per Diem/Casual
Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.
Pay Range is $48.03 to $67.23 / hour
The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.

What Sutter Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom