Specimen collectors in the United States generally earn an average annual salary of around $37,000, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $18.00. However, earnings can vary significantly based on location, experience, and the specific employer.
Specimen Collector Salary Overview
The compensation for specimen collectors reflects their crucial role in healthcare and diagnostic processes, requiring precision, attention to detail, and often direct patient interaction. While the national average provides a good baseline, understanding the factors that influence pay can offer a more complete picture.
Average Earnings
On average, a specimen collector can expect to make:
- Annual Salary: Approximately $37,000
- Hourly Wage: Around $18.00
These figures represent a broad average across various states and employers, as reported by leading salary data platforms.
Top Paying Locations for Specimen Collectors
Location plays a significant role in determining a specimen collector's income. Certain cities and regions offer higher compensation due to factors like demand, cost of living, and the concentration of healthcare facilities. The following table highlights some of the highest-paying cities for specimen collector jobs:
| City | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Soda Bay, CA | $43,903 | $21.11 |
| Berkeley, CA | $43,465 | $20.90 |
| Berlin Corners, VT | $43,385 | $20.86 |
| Clay, CA | $43,172 | $20.76 |
As seen, salaries in top-paying cities can be considerably higher than the national average, often exceeding $43,000 annually.
Factors Influencing Salary
Several elements can impact how much a specimen collector earns:
- Experience: Entry-level positions may start at a lower wage, while those with several years of experience or specialized training can command higher salaries.
- Employer Type: Working for large hospital systems, specialized laboratories, or government agencies might offer different pay scales and benefit packages compared to smaller clinics or private practices.
- Certifications: While not always mandatory, certain certifications (e.g., phlebotomy certification) can make candidates more competitive and potentially lead to higher pay.
- Geographic Location: As demonstrated, the cost of living and local demand for specimen collectors in a particular area significantly affect salary ranges.
For more detailed information on specimen collector salaries across various locations and experience levels, you can refer to comprehensive salary guides like those found on ZipRecruiter.
