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.
- Follow all safety guidelines when using lab equipment
- Wear personal protective equipment at all times
- Document any blood borne pathogens incidents
- Clean up any blood borne pathogens per protocol
- Follow chain of custody protocols
- Follow written and verbal orders given by the doctor or other medical professional
- Carefully note outcomes from tests
- Order supplies
- Certified as a Lab Assistant, per the state requirements
- 1-3 years of experience in a lab environment
- Ability to pass a drug screen
- Ability to pass a background check
- Reliable transportation
- Willing to participate in training as provided by organization
- Ability to stand for long periods of time
- Follow all safety protocols
- Keen attention to detail when conducting tests and documenting results
How much does a Lab Assistant make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$37,239
/ yrLab 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.
Years of Experience Distribution
Lab Assistant Insights
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University“Their pay was good and reasonable”
GSK“good and helpful people to work with”
Curative, Inc.“Everyone is very nice and great to work with.”
ALS“The team is nice and fun to work with.”
Bio-Reference Labs“The people are super smart and enjoyable to work with.”
Yourgene Health“I have been working for three weeks and I haven’t even met my team leader.”
NHS“Good good good good good”
“reliable nice cool good perfect”
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
- Client Services Representative
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.