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Specimen Processor Jobs in Worcester, MA (NOW HIRING)

Part Time Specimen Processor

Needham, MA · On-site

$16.15 - $28.80/hr

Train staff on specimen processing and system functions * Enter test results accurately and coordinate with vendor labs for timely reporting; manage special program specimens and home draw scheduling

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $19.61 - $20.00 / hour Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $19.61 - $20.00 / hour Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01/ hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01/ hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01/ hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01/ hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 -$22.01 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

Quest Diagnostics is recruiting for specimen processors/ lab assistants to join our team! Pay range: $20.10 - $22.01 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or ...

As a Specimen Processor you'd be helping to sort, tag, and prepare the samples for testing. The samples that we work with are blood, urine, fecal samples and biopsies that we receive from the vet ...

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Specimen Processor information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for specimen processor in Worcester, MA is $17.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.22 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.

What are popular job titles related to Specimen Processor jobs in Worcester, MA? For Specimen Processor jobs in Worcester, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specimen Processor jobs in Worcester, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Specimen Processor jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Specimen Processor job openings:
Infographic showing various Specimen Processor job openings in Worcester, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 20% Temporary, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,394 per year, or $18 per hour.
Part Time Specimen Processor

Part Time Specimen Processor

UnitedHealth Group

Needham, MA • On-site

$16.15 - $28.80/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


UnitedHealth Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

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 02494
Department: Laboratory
Schedule: Part time, 8 hours. Will be working every other weekend, on either a Saturday or Sunday (10:30am - 7pm).
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, including centrifuging, ALIQUOTTING and shipping under proper conditions; ensure equipment functionality
  • Train staff on specimen processing and system functions
  • Enter test results accurately and coordinate with vendor labs for timely reporting; manage special program specimens and home draw scheduling
  • Develop and implement systems for timely and accurate specimen disbursement; maintain knowledge of specimen requirements and communicate updates to staff
  • Manage inventory and supply deliveries
  • Must have flexibility to complete initial training during either day shifts or evening shifts

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 healthcare experience
  • Beginner level of proficiency with navigating computer systems and Microsoft applications

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate's degree or equivalent (with additional courses in Biology / Chemistry)
  • 1+ years of experience as a phlebotomist
  • Familiarity with medical terminology
  • Proven excellent customer service skills

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift/push/pull up to 40 lbs. (with additional help from equipment)
  • Ability to walk and/or stand for up to 75% of your shift

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 $16.15 to $28.80 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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