Entry Level Specimen Processor

Job Title: Entry Level Specimen Processor

Job Description

The Entry Level Specimen Processor plays a key role in the pre-analytical and post-analytical phases of laboratory testing by receiving, logging, preparing, storing, and disposing of samples. This position is ideal for individuals looking to start or grow a career in a laboratory environment, as it offers hands-on experience with specimen processing and clear opportunities for advancement within medical laboratory science.

Responsibilities

• Receive incoming specimens from couriers arriving from locations across the United States and internationally, and initiate the tracking process promptly.
• Verify that all samples in each shipment have arrived, either manually or using data systems for larger shipments, ensuring no specimens are missing.
• Inspect specimens and packaging for damage, remove and dispose of packaging materials appropriately, and move samples forward in the workflow for data entry.
• Operate multiple computer software systems to log and track specimens, accurately selecting and using the correct system for each type of sample.
• Confirm that patient names and other identifiers on specimens match the information on corresponding requisitions to maintain accurate records.
• Handle primarily urine specimens, along with some blood, serum, plasma, and other body fluids, following established safety and handling procedures.
• Enter specimen information into laboratory systems, generate labels, and apply labels to samples accurately and efficiently.
• Aliquot specimens from one container into multiple containers when required, and perform basic processing such as centrifuging or freezing samples to stabilize them.
• Contribute to a high-volume workflow, supporting a team that processes approximately 5,000 to 11,000 samples per day.
• Manage ongoing maintenance of stored specimens, including organizing, tracking, and disposing of samples after 3, 6, or 12 months in walk-in refrigerators and freezers according to laboratory protocols.
• Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail in all specimen handling and data entry activities.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced, production-oriented environment to meet established turnaround times for specimen processing.
• Collaborate with team members and follow standard operating procedures to support quality control and reliable laboratory results.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma, with a preference for candidates who have completed some coursework in science.
• Strong desire to grow and advance within the laboratory environment and medical laboratory industry.
• Intermediate computer skills, including proficiency with typing and 10-key data entry.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a high-volume setting.
• Capacity to perform work with a high degree of accuracy and strong attention to detail.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, production environment while meeting established turnaround times.
• Willingness to learn new systems and processes and adapt to multiple software platforms.
• Experience multitasking in previous roles such as laboratory support, banking, serving, or other customer service positions.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Background or interest in laboratory, forensic science, quality control, or material handling is beneficial.
• Experience with specimen handling, sample preparation, or phlebotomy is an advantage.
• Customer service experience, including roles in retail or hospitality, can provide valuable transferable skills for this position.
• Interest in psychology or science-related fields may support long-term growth in the medical laboratory environment.
• Eligibility to pursue science-related coursework or degrees that can lead to future technologist opportunities and career advancement.

Work Environment

This role is based in a medical laboratory environment focused on pre-analytical and post-analytical processes for diagnostic and therapeutic testing. As a Specimen Accessioner, you work in a fast-paced, production-oriented setting that processes approximately 5,000 to 11,000 samples per day. You will receive on-the-job training to perform vital specimen processing tasks that support accurate test results for clients and patients. The work involves handling urine and other body fluid specimens, using multiple computer systems, and working in areas with walk-in refrigerators and freezers for specimen storage and maintenance. The position is offered on second shift, typically from 5:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Tuesday through Saturday. The environment emphasizes reliability and consistent attendance, as a high call-in rate within the first three months may affect eligibility for future full-time opportunities. Team members have access to opportunities for career growth, including tuition support for qualifying online science degrees, which can lead to advancement into technologist roles and additional benefits such as vacation accrual and holidays once in a full-time position.

This is a Contract position based out of Saint Paul, MN.

The pay range for this position is $19.53 - $19.53/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a Contract position based out of Saint Paul, MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 28, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Saint Paul,MN.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.