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Specimen Processor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

FedWriters, Inc.

Expungement Processor

Quantico, VA · On-site

Overview Join our team as an Expungement Processor and support the Air Force Criminal Justice Information Center (AFCJIC) by administering the DAF indexing records expungement, challenge, and ...

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Biologist (51819)

Bethesda, MD

Perform work in the DTM HLA Laboratory, including the following major laboratory procedures: 1 * Perform specimen processing 2 * DNA extraction and quantitation utilizing various manual and automated ...

Sonic Healthcare USA

Phlebotomist - One Health

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

Ensure proper specimen processing, labeling, and test ordering. * Champion safety, compliance, and quality control. All you need is: * High School Diploma or equivalent * Previous phlebotomy training ...

Sonic Healthcare USA

Phlebotomist - One Health

Reston, VA

$17.75 - $22/hr

Ensure proper specimen processing, labeling, and test ordering. * Champion safety, compliance, and quality control. All you need is: * High School Diploma or equivalent * Previous phlebotomy training ...

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All JobsSpecimen Processor JobsSpecimen Processor Jobs in Reston, VA

Specimen Processor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$18

$23

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Reston, VA is $18.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $18.99 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Specimen Processor jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processor jobs in Reston, VA? For Specimen Processor jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Specimen Processor job openings:
Specimen Processor jobs near you
Specimen Technician - 3rd Shift

Specimen Technician - 3rd Shift

CYNET SYSTEMS

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Contractor

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Overview:

Pay Range: $20.70/hr - $24.15/hr

Requirement/Must Have:

  • Ability to learn and understand specimen types related to test(s) ordered.
  • Ability to learn and understand compliance regulations related to test ordering.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform functions including A-station, presort, pickup and delivery of processed specimens to the laboratory, imaging/microfilming, centrifugation, and aliquoting.
  • Perform all functions with confidence, accuracy, and in a timely manner.
  • Maintain good organization skills.
  • Adapt to daily changes in compliance regulations.
  • Work in a production environment with emphasis on productivity/quality standards.
  • Enter 6,000 alphanumeric keystrokes/hour.
  • Practice good safety habits in a biohazard environment.
  • Communicate effectively with all levels of staff.
  • Adhere to core values, safety, and compliance policies and procedures.
  • Keep work area neat and clean.
  • Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills that foster a positive environment.
  • Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to change.

Nice to Have:

  • Previous laboratory experience.
  • Medical background including medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory.
  • Previous hospital laboratory experience.
  • Previous experience in a production environment.

Skills:

  • Basic understanding of computers.
  • Preferred knowledge of laboratory testing and/or laboratory specimen processing.

Qualification And Education:

  • HS diploma or equivalent.

Founded in 2010 and headquartered in the Washington, DC metro area, Cynet Systems Inc. is a leading staffing and recruiting powerhouse. Proudly recognized as a nationally and locally certified diversity firm, Cynet delivers agile, scalable talent solutions across industries. With an active footprint in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, we support thousands of consultants through our expansive, high-performing recruitment engine operating across North America and Asia—ensuring speed, quality, and consistency in every hire.
Cynet Systems logo

About Cynet Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cynet Systems Inc is a staffing and recruiting corporation nestled in Ashburn, VA, USA. Established in 2010, the company operates within the Information Technology and Services sector, specializing in providing effective workforce solutions to different business needs, including IT consulting, direct hire, and contract staffing services. Through the years, Cynet Systems has built an impressive portfolio, going beyond borders and expanding its operations internationally in Canada and India. Rooted in its core values of teamwork, leadership, and commitment, Cynet Systems helps businesses unlock their full potential by providing versatile and competent professionals that perfectly align with their needs. Fueled by their unwavering mission to deliver top-tier talent to businesses worldwide, Cynet Systems garnered various recognitions including SIA's fastest-growing staffing firms and Best Place to Work in Virginia for 2019.

Industry

It services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sterling, VA, US

Year founded

2010

Social media

Twitter

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