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Specimen Processor Jobs in Meridian, MS (NOW HIRING)

Specimen Processor information

See Meridian, MS salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Meridian, MS is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $17.93 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 Meridian, MS?

For Specimen Processor jobs in Meridian, MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Meridian, MS look for?

The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Meridian, MS are:

What cities near Meridian, MS are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Meridian, MS with the most Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Meridian, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,760 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Phlebotomist Specimen Processor--Days-FT

Ochsner Health

Meridian, MS • On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Ochsner Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 447 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

605th of 889 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We've made a lot of progress since opening the doors in 1942, but one thing has never changed - our commitment to serve, heal, lead, educate, andinnovate.Webelieve that every award earned, every record broken and every patient helped is because of the dedicated employees who fill our hallways.

At Ochsner, whether you work with patients every day or support those who do, you are making a difference and that matters. Come make a difference at Ochsner Health and discover your future today!

This job performs various laboratory functions to support the department in patient care. Conducts phlebotomy procedures; processes and receives specimens; accessions specimens; distributes specimens; and performs and results specific test procedures.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.
This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Education

Required -High School diploma or equivalent

Preferred - Completion of phlebotomy course


Work Experience

Required -None

Certifications

Preferred - Current license or trainee license in the state of practice

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

  • Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of patient information.
  • Must be proficient with Windows-style applications and keyboard.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals throughout the patient care process.
  • Knowledge of venipuncture procedures
  • Strong interpersonal skills


Job Duties

  • Performs clinical assignments.
  • Supports departmental goals and objectives.
  • Processes specimens.
  • Resolves problems.
  • Exhibits versatility and cooperation.
  • Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to: respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of service or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.
  • Other related duties as required.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.
Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards.


This employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns.
The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Physical and Environmental Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. (Constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.

Mechanical lifting devices (carts, dollies, etc.) or team lifts should be utilized.
Must be able to sit for prolonged periods of time.
Must be able to travel throughout and between facilities.
Must be able to work a flexible work schedule.

Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue.

There may be an occupational risk for exposure to communicable diseases.

Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.

Please click the below link to view Ochsner Rush's delineated job descriptions based on daily duties. Once you click on the link, you will have to request permission before being able to view the site. Please note, this could take up to 24 hours for access to be granted.

RUSH HR - Home (sharepoint.com)


Are you ready to make a difference? Apply Today!


Ochsner Health does not consider an individual an applicant until they have formally applied to the open position on this careers website.


Please refer to the job description to determine whether the position you are interested in is remote or on-site. Individuals who reside in and will work from the following areas are not eligible for remote work position: Colorado, California, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Washington, and Washington D.C.


Ochsner Health endeavors to make our site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website, or if you need an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact our HR Employee Solution Center at 504-842-4748 (select option 1) orcareers@ochsner.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


Ochsner is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any legally protected class, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.



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