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Specimen Processor Jobs in Frederick, MD (NOW HIRING)

... specimen consolidation and reorganization projects under the guidance of a Lead Operations Technician. • Participates in process improvement activities. • Receives, handles and inventories ...

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Phlebotomist

Olney, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Properly explain in a clear but courteous manner the process of the venipuncture (blood drawing) and or other specimen collection (ex. urine or fecal) as required. * Demonstrate technique/s using ...

Follow established standard operating procedures for specimen handling, processing, test analysis, record keeping, and reporting of results to team leads, supervisors, and test managers. * Process ...

Be Seen First

Perform clinical procedures including venipuncture, EKG administration, specimen collection, and injections as directed * Process and prepare laboratory specimens for testing and maintain quality ...

Be Seen First

Perform clinical procedures including venipuncture, EKG administration, specimen collection, and injections as directed * Process and prepare laboratory specimens for testing and maintain quality ...

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Specimen Processor information

See Frederick, MD salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Frederick, MD is $17.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $18.17 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 Frederick, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Frederick, MD are:
What cities near Frederick, MD are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Frederick, MD with the most Specimen Processor job openings:
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Frederick, MD 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 $37,261 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Technician II - Night Shift Part Time

Medical Laboratory Technician II - Night Shift Part Time

MedStar Health

Olney, MD • On-site

$25.86 - $46.12/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Medstar Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 238 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

About the Job
Working hours for this role will be 11pm - 7:30am, part time 24 hours per week, including an every other weekend rotation.
General Summary of Position
Performs specimen testing and analysis on patient samples to aid clinicians in diagnosis and treatment. Ensures that all quality control quality assurance and equipment maintenance are documented and maintained according to standards. Provides exceptional customer service as needed. Serves as a knowledge expert and technical consultant in the specialty area(s). These functions are performed following all applicable laws and regulations and MedStar Health's philosophy policies procedures and standards.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Evaluates specimen adequacy for test performance; obtains specimens for quantitative and qualitative analyses.
  • Performs routine and specialized testing in assigned area. Correlates laboratory findings with disease stage integrates and relates data from other laboratory specialty areas. Confirms abnormal results and specimen discrepancies and institutes correct follow-up procedures.
  • Reviews/verifies test results recognizes and follows through on abnormal/unusual results and communicates same to appropriate personnel. Accurately completes all required documentation. Utilizes judgment and discretion in considering sample integrity process calibration reagent concentration and stability quality control prior to releasing testing results. relationship to unknown results evaluation of unexpected patient results and error identification.
  • Performs and documents daily quality control and quality assurance measures to assure that tolerance limits are not exceeded. Advises supervisor of quality assurance/quality control problems. Evaluates CAP and other survey proficiency testing materials as required.
  • Analyzes technical problems pertaining to collection of specimens and instrumentation. Determines cause and rectifies problems in accordance with guidelines and procedures. Maintains adequate reagents/supplies in the work area and/or on the instruments to avoid delay in sample processing.
  • Maintains adequate reagents/supplies in the work area and/or on the instruments to avoid delay in sample processing. Keeps work area in a clean and organized manner at all times in keeping with the lean standards as designed. Decontaminates counter surfaces instruments computers telephones and general work area according to laboratory protocol.
  • Ensures that turnaround time standards are met within lab section. Communicates any variances to supervisor in a timely manner.
  • Participates in the education and training of students and new employees.
  • Maintains individual competency as scheduled.
  • Assists with department competency requirements such as performing training assessments or direct observations as delegated by the medical director
  • Provides technical advice and support to other laboratory personnel as required.
  • Informs next shift of pertinent information to maintain efficient operation.
  • Demonstrates simple to complex troubleshooting skills.
  • Participates in three of the following activities related to technical measures: take an active role in training of new associates reviews and update of SOP performs competency sign off manages inventory and/or supplies for a section performs as charge tech or serves as safety rep.
  • Participates in three of the following activities related to quality assurance measures: serves as member of the quality safety or service improvement team completes accurate performance of QC PT specimens patient testing and maintenance represents lab on a hospital or MedStar work group works on a process improvement project or performs comparison studies for linearity precision accuracy.

Minimal Qualifications
Education
  • Associate's degree AA Degree in Medical Laboratory Science required or
  • Completion of a program offered by the military or vocational school. required

Experience
  • 3-6 years of clinical laboratory training and/or experience required

Licenses and Certifications
  • MLT-Medical Lab Technician (ASCP) Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Upon Hire required or
  • AMT - Medical Lab Technician - AMTMLT Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Upon Hire required

This position has a hiring range of
USD $25.86 - USD $46.12 /Hr.

What Medstar Health employees say

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About Medstar Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MedStar Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation, and research. Our team of 32,000 includes physicians, nurses, residents, fellows, and many other clinical and non-clinical associates working in a variety of settings across our health system, including 10 hospitals and more than 300 community-based locations, the largest home health provider in the region, and highly respected institutes dedicated to research and innovation. As the medical education and clinical partner of Georgetown University for more than 20 years, MedStar Health is dedicated not only to teaching the next generation of doctors, but also to the continuing education, professional development, and personal fulfillment of our whole team. Together, we use the best of our minds and the best of our hearts to serve our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. It's how we treat people.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, MD, US

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