Laboratory Clerk

Career Guide

A Laboratory Clerk supports day to day laboratory operations by handling administrative and sample tracking tasks. The role focuses on accurate data entry, organizing records, preparing paperwork, and helping the lab team keep specimens and results moving smoothly and safely.

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Key Responsibilities

Receive and log incoming specimens
Label specimens accurately
Enter patient and test information into laboratory systems
Prepare test requisitions and supporting paperwork
Route specimens to the correct lab section
File and maintain laboratory records
Answer phone calls and respond to basic inquiries
Schedule courier pickups and deliveries
Order and restock basic laboratory supplies
Follow privacy and safety procedures
Report missing information and specimen issues to supervisors
Support audit readiness by keeping documentation complete

Top Skills for Success

Data Entry

Attention to Detail

Organization

Time Management

Confidentiality

Specimen Handling

Labeling Accuracy

Record Keeping

Customer Service

Basic Computer Skills

Prioritization

Quality Focus

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Laboratory Assistant

Specimen Processor

Phlebotomy Technician

Medical Records Clerk

Laboratory Receptionist

Transition Opportunities

Laboratory Technician

Medical Laboratory Technician

Quality Assistant

Laboratory Coordinator

Healthcare Administration Specialist

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Laboratory Information System KnowledgeSpecimen Chain of CustodyMedical TerminologyBasic Quality Control AwarenessHIPAA Compliance Knowledge

Development SuggestionsAsk to shadow specimen receiving and accessioning. Complete short courses on medical terminology, privacy practices, and laboratory documentation. Practice accurate data entry with double check habits and learn the main workflows in your laboratory system.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUS$32,000 to US$40,000

Mid LevelUS$40,000 to US$50,000

Senior LevelUS$50,000 to US$60,000

Growth Trend

Steady demand. Hiring is supported by ongoing needs in hospitals, diagnostic testing, and public health labs, with volume changes based on local healthcare activity.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

LabcorpQuest DiagnosticsMayo ClinicCleveland ClinicKaiser PermanenteHCA HealthcareAscensionProvidenceTenet Healthcare

Industry Sectors

Hospitals and health systemsIndependent diagnostic laboratoriesPublic health laboratoriesUniversity and research laboratoriesBlood and tissue banksVeterinary diagnostic laboratories

Recommended Next Steps

Update your resume to highlight high accuracy data entry, record keeping, and turnaround time support

Learn the standard specimen types and common labeling requirements used in your lab

Complete a basic medical terminology course

Review privacy and confidentiality requirements used in healthcare settings

Ask your supervisor for cross training in specimen receiving and specimen routing

Set a measurable goal such as reducing data entry errors or improving log in time

Explore certifications aligned to your next step such as phlebotomy training or medical laboratory technician programs