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Specimen Processor Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

UPMC Senior Communities

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$19.20 - $30.08/hr

Specimen Processor - Full-Time Evening Shift UPMC Mercy | Kenna Laboratory Are you detail-oriented and interested in a career in laboratory medicine? UPMC Mercy is seeking a full-time evening shift ...

UPMC Mercy

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

Specimen Processor - Full-Time Night Shift UPMC Mercy | Kenna Laboratory Are you detail-oriented and interested in a career in laboratory medicine? UPMC Mercy is seeking a full-time night shift ...

New

UPMC Mercy

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA

$16 - $18.50/hr

Specimen Processor - Full-Time Evening Shift UPMC Mercy | Kenna Laboratory Are you detail-oriented and interested in a career in laboratory medicine? UPMC Mercy is seeking a full-time evening shift ...

New

UPMC Senior Communities

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$19.20 - $30.08/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step for you! UPMC Presbyterian is hiring a full-time Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing ...

UPMC Shadyside

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step for you! UPMCShadyside is hiringa full-timeSpecimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab!

UPMC Shadyside

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step for you! UPMCShadyside is hiringa full-timeSpecimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab!

UPMC Presbyterian

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step for you! UPMCPresbyterian is hiringa full-timeSpecimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab!

Actalent

Specimen Processor

Mckeesrocks, PA

$19 - $20/hr

Skills specimen processing, laboratory Top Skills Details specimen processing,laboratory Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of McKees Rocks, PA.

New

Lancesoft

Specimen Technician

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The SPT I is responsible for general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department. * This position requires a data entry background. * Functions performed may include but are not ...

Synectics Inc

Specimen Technician

Pittsburgh, PA

$20/hr

* The SPT I is responsible for general support functions within the Specimen Processing Department. * This position requires a data entry background. * Functions performed may include but are not ...

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All JobsSpecimen Processor JobsSpecimen Processor Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Specimen Processor information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Pittsburgh, PA is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.74 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.

More about Specimen Processor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Specimen Processor jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processor jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? For Specimen Processor jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Specimen Processor job openings:
Specimen Processor jobs near you

Specimen Processor

UPMC Senior Communities

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$19.20 - $30.08/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Specimen Processor - Full-Time Evening Shift
UPMC Mercy | Kenna Laboratory
Are you detail-oriented and interested in a career in laboratory medicine? UPMC Mercy is seeking a full-time evening shift (2 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.) Specimen Processor to join our team in the Kenna Laboratory.
As a Specimen Processor, you play a critical role in patient care by serving as the gateway for all specimens entering the laboratory. This position is essential to ensuring the accuracy and integrity of patient samples before testing. Responsibilities include aliquoting body fluid specimens, utilizing laboratory test code databases, communicating with nurses and physicians regarding patient orders, and ensuring specimens are delivered under proper conditions to the appropriate testing areas.
This is an excellent entry point into the field of laboratory medicine, offering exposure to a variety of laboratory processes and opportunities for professional growth. If you have a high school diploma, strong attention to detail, and a willingness to learn, we encourage you to apply.
Join UPMC Mercy and help advance clinical excellence while compassionately serving our community. Whether you're beginning your career or exploring opportunities in healthcare, you'll be part of a team dedicated to quality, innovation, and exceptional patient care.
Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with rotating weekends and holidays.
Location: UPMC Mercy - Kenna Laboratory.
Responsibilities:
  • Demonstrate service orientation approach by conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm and a positive attitude in work situations. Show initiative and offer assistance in the completion of the department's work. Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens.
  • Investigate and resolve any requesting mistakes or other specimen problems. Request assistance when needed. Complete quality forms for unacceptable specimens, requesting errors or other problems.Separate by centrifugation. Label appropriate aliquot tubes and transfer as defined by policy; store samples at the appropriate temperature.
  • Determine and enter the specimen receive time into the computer. Answer all telephone inquiries concerning proper specimen collection, result, and normal range information.Follow all regulations regarding health and safety concerning the handling of biohazardous patient samples or sharps to prevent exposure.
  • Verify patient specimens such as blood, urine and other body fluids with requisitions or labels, making certain that information on the specimens match any paperwork received and correct specimen. Properly request in the Laboratory Information System laboratory information system if needed. Prepare, package and send specimens to outside locations as needed.
  • Receive, sort and prioritize ALL specimens according to the laboratory policies.Share specimens as necessary. Notify supervisor of problems and of any requests that need credited or clarified.

Disinfect the work area after shift and during shift, if needed. Participates in the orientation and training of new laboratory specimen processors. Perform routine technical and related clerical duties as directed.
Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Three to six months of experience in a clinical laboratory, physician's office, or other medical environment preferred, including knowledge of or experience in Medical Terminology and Laboratory Information systems.
  • Three to six months of experience in a service environment including call center, customer service center, or product distribution/fulfillment center preferred.
  • Good oral and written communication skills required.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all age groups and populations of external and internal customers (as well as co-workers) both by telephone and in person.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
  • Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

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