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Specimen Processor Jobs in Salem, MA (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Specimen Processor Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly ...

Prepare and process samples, including centrifuging, ALIQUOTTING and shipping under proper conditions; ensure equipment functionality * Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter ...

New

Prepare and process samples, including centrifuging, ALIQUOTTING and shipping under proper conditions; ensure equipment functionality * Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter ...

Prepare and process samples, including centrifuging, ALIQUOTTING and shipping under proper conditions; ensure equipment functionality * Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter ...

Specimen Collector

Salem, NH · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Collect patient urine and/or oral fluid (saliva) specimens Process and package collections for ... The Specimen Collector is a key role at Millennium Health. As our representative, this position ...

Specimen Collector- 1719

Salem, NH · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Collect patient urine and/or oral fluid (saliva) specimens Process and package collections for ... specimen concerns with billing or patient information in ordering portal Order and maintain ...

Specimen Collector- 1719

Salem, NH · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Collect patient urine and/or oral fluid (saliva) specimens Process and package collections for ... specimen concerns with billing or patient information in ordering portal Order and maintain ...

Specimen Collector- 1719

Salem, NH · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Collect patient urine and/or oral fluid (saliva) specimens Process and package collections for ... specimen concerns with billing or patient information in ordering portal Order and maintain ...

Specimen Collector I

Chelmsford, MA · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

Specimen Collector The Specimen Collector is responsible for collecting biological specimens at ... Duties will include maintaining the integrity of the collection process, maintaining records for ...

Specimen Collector I

Chelmsford, MA · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

The Specimen Collector is responsible for collecting biological specimens at client sites for the ... Duties will include maintaining the integrity of the collection process, maintaining records for ...

Clinical Lab Assistant

Concord, MA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

As a Specimen Processing Technician, you'll be at the heart of the laboratory operation-ensuring samples are handled with precision, efficiency, and care. About the Role Under the general supervision ...

Showing results 21-40

Specimen Processor information

See Salem, MA salary details

$14

$19

$24

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Salem, MA is $19.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $19.95 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 cities near Salem, MA are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs?

Cities near Salem, MA with the most Specimen Processor job openings:

Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Salem, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,949 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Specimen | , Massachusetts

UnitedHealthcare

Needham, MA • On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


UnitedHealthcare rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 699 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Laboratory Specimen Processor

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

Under the direction of a Supervisor or Manager, prepares specimens for screening. Will log, sort and organize specimens and triage specimens to respective departments.

Location: 152 Second Ave. Needham, MA

Schedule: FT, 40 hours. Monday - Friday, 2pm - 10:30pm

Department: Laboratory

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Oversee handling, labeling, and preparation of lab specimens (blood, urine, swabs, cultures etc.) ensuring compliance with protocols
  • Maintain accurate tracking documentation and resolve specimen-related issues with vendor labs; escalate recurring problems as needed
  • Prepare and process samples for timely surgical pathology reporting
  • Train staff on specimen processing and system functions; support ongoing education initiatives
  • Develop and implement systems for timely and accurate specimen disbursement; maintain knowledge of specimen requirements and communicate updates to staff

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 6+ months of experience in a laboratory or medical setting (or equivalent collegiate science coursework such as Biology, Anatomy, etc.)
  • Ability to work Monday - Friday, 2pm - 10:30pm

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous data entry experience
  • Previous EPIC experience
  • Proven ability to maintain professional attitude and appearance at all times
  • Proven ability to be flexible and exercise good judgment when handling specimens
  • Proven excellent communication skills
  • Proven ability to work collaboratively as part of a team with coworkers as well as internal and external customers

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $16.00 to $29.00 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location, and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups, and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug - free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.


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