Specimen processors collect and submit various types of specimens, including blood and urine. They work in hospitals, clinics, blood banks or private institutions.

Job Description

The primary job of a specimen processor is to obtain specimen samples and deliver them to a laboratory for analysis. A processor may have several titles depending on the types of specimens he works with. For instance, a processor that obtains blood samples is also called a phlebotomist.

Duties

A specimen processor’s duties include receiving, organizing and labeling samples and maintaining all equipment used. Some elements of clerical work are also involved, such as logging and filing samples for each patient, managing data on a computer and answering calls with regard to the status of a specimen.

Salary

The earning potential of a specimen processor varies based on factors such as location and experience. The 2012 median salary for a biological technician was $39,750, while the median salary for phlebotomists was $29,730.