What does a Lab Assistant do?
As a Lab Assistant (in a hospital) you will follow instructions and safety protocols in handling blood borne pathogens. You will collect and process specimens from patients to assist medical personnel. You will maintain a safe environment and document any abnormalities in the manner proscribed by the facility.
You could be the ideal candidate if you have a GED or H.S. diploma, are a certified lab assistant per state requirements and have at least a year of experience in a lab environment. You will be standing for long periods of time and be expected to participate in all training provided and adhere to all safety protocols. Before an offer of employment can be extended you must be able to pass a background check and drug screen.
Lab Assistant Salaries
Average Base Pay
Lab Assistant Career Path
Learn how to become a Lab Assistant, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Lab Assistant Insights
NeoGenomics“Work life balance is difficult to have because of the high backlog we currently have.”
Curative“Everyone is very nice and great to work with.”
Server Technology“The people who work here are extremely nice and good to work with.”
Bio-Reference Labs“The people are super smart and enjoyable to work with.”
ALS“The team is nice and fun to work with.”
Yourgene Health“I have been working for three weeks and I haven’t even met my team leader.”
University of Miami“not great pay but not much effort”
Royal Stoke University Hospital“Good good good good good”
Lab Assistant Jobs
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a lab assistant
When working as a lab assistant, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Critical Thinking, Excellent Communication, CPR, Professionalism, and Interpersonal and Communication.
- Lab Manager
- Lab Technician
- Research Assistant
- Chemist
The most common qualifications to become a lab assistant include a minimum of a Associate's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.