ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Specimen Processor Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

Cynet Systems

Pre-Analytical Assistant I

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Learns additional functions within Tech Ops and Specimen Processing to allow timely progression to the next level. * Performs other duties as assigned. Skills * Handles multiple tasks simultaneously ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 12, 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 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.

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
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,382 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

CLINICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Greensburg, PA • On-site

INDEPENDENCE HEALTH SYSTEM INC
See more jobs at INDEPENDENCE HEALTH SYSTEM INCexternal

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Laboratory Specimen Processor

Assists technical staff in the preparation, processing, handling and tracking of laboratory specimens. Competent in general laboratory support services such as computer system order entry, registration of patients, procurement and handling of specimens and orders. May work in clinical lab, cytology and microbiology.

Essential Job Functions

  • Demonstrate competency in appropriate computer system functions
  • Responsible for receipt and pre-analytic examination of patient specimens
  • Prepares and processes laboratory specimens appropriately to ensure specimen integrity through the pre-analytic phase and post-analytic phase.
  • Plans and utilizes time effectively and efficiently to maintain optimal testing turnaround time
  • Maintains operational readiness of work area to ensure continuity of operations
  • Interacts with various health care professionals to obtain or exchange information to expedite laboratory services.
  • Compliance with all established guidelines as documented in technical policies and procedures as related, but not limited to: quality control, quality assurance, record retention, requisitions and orders, billing, biohazard waste management, safety, specimen packaging and shipping.
  • Actively begins breath alcohol training and urine drug screen training.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Competency and Experience [Knowledge, Skills and Abilities]

Required Qualifications/Experience

  • High School Diploma, GED or higher level of education.
  • Strong leadership ability, good organizational skills, independent and critical thinking skills, sound judgment, and knowledge of legal aspects and liability of nursing practice.
  • Strong ability to communicate complex and/or controversial topics and concepts to a wide and diverse audience.
  • Basic Math and Keyboard Proficiency
  • Ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments.
  • Basic working knowledge of computers and office equipment

Preferred Qualifications/Experience

  • Experience as a lab assistant.
  • Experience in laboratory specimen procurement and receiving position or enrolled in an appropriate clinical Laboratory program.
  • Experience in a specimen receiving position.
  • Experience as phlebotomist.
  • Experience handling patient specimens.
  • College/Technical school experience with laboratory specimens
  • Core course completion in a Biological Science, or related field
  • Experience in Healthcare setting.

License, Certification & Clearances

  • Act 34-PA Criminal Record Check from the PA State Police system

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

  • Incumbent will be scheduled based on operational need (rotate shifts, standby, on-call, etc.).
  • Travel may be expected locally between System locations.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Independence Health and its affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. It is their policy to prohibit discrimination of any type and to afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or genetic information, or any other classification protected by law. Independence Health and its affiliated companies will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

Disclaimer

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Moreover, duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Work Environment

Effective March 2020 or during pandemic: goggles, face shield and mask are required according to CDC guidelines

When lift requirement is in excess of 50#, lift assistance (2 person) and/or transfer device is required.Essential – Absolute Necessity.Marginal – Minimal Necessity.Constantly – 5.5 to 8 hours or more or 200 reps/shift.Frequently – 2.5 to 5.5 hours or more or 32-200 reps/shift.Occasionally – 0.25 to 2.5 hours or 2-32 reps/shift.Rarely – Less than 0.25 hours or less than 2 reps/shift. - Physical Condition - Essential - Marginal - Constantly - Frequently - Occasionally - Rarely - Never

Extreme Heat - x

Extreme Cold - x

Heights - x

Confined Spaces - x

Extreme Noise(>85dB) - x

Mechanical Hazards - x - x

Use of Vibrating Tools - x

Operates Vehicle (company) - x - x

Operates Heavy Equipment - x

Use of Lifting/Transfer Devices - x

Rotates All Shifts - x - x

8 Hours Shifts - x - x

10-12 Hours Shifts - x

On-Call - x

Overtime(+8/hrs/shift; 40/hr/wk) - x - x

Travel Between Sites - x - x

Direct Patient Care - x - x

Respirator Protective Equipment - x

Eye Protection - x - x

Head Protection (hard hat) - x

Hearing Protection - x

Hand Protection - x - x

Feet, Toe Protection - x

Body Protection - x - x

Latex Exposure - x - x

Solvent Exposure - x - x

Paint (direct use) Exposure - x

Dust (sanding) Exposure - x

Ethylene Oxide Exposure - x

Cytotoxic (Chemo) Exposure - x

Blood/Body Fluid Exposure - x - x

Chemicals (direct use) Exposure - x - x

Mist Exposure - x

Wax Stripper (direct use) - x

Non-Ionizing Radiation Exposure - x

Ionizing Radiation Exposure - x

Laser Exposure - x

Physical Demands

When lift requirement is in excess of 50#, lift assistance (2 person) and/or transfer device is required.Essential – Absolute Necessity.Marginal – Minimal Necessity.Constantly – 5.5 to 8 hours or more or 200 reps/shift.Frequently – 2.5 to 5.5 hours or more or 32-200 reps/shift.Occasionally – 0.25 to 2.5 hours or 2-32 reps/shift.Rarely – Less than 0.25 hours or less than 2 reps/shift. - Physical Condition - Essential - Marginal - Constantly - Frequently - Occasionally - Rarely - Never

Bending (Stooping) - x - x

Sitting - x - x

Walking - x - x

Climbing Stairs - x - x

Climbing Ladders - x

Standing - x - x

Kneeling - x

Squatting (Crouching) - x

Twisting/Turning - x - x

Keyboard/Computer Operation - x - x

Gross Grasp - x - x

Fine Finger Manipulation - x - x

Hand/Arm Coordination - x - x

Pushing/Pulling(lbs. of force) - x - 20#

Carry - x - 5#

Transfer/Push/Pull Patients - x

Seeing Near w/Acuity - x - x

Feeling (Sensation) - x - x

Color Vision - x - x

Hearing Clearly - x - x

Pulling/Pushing Objects Overhead - x - x

Apply