What Does a Laboratory Assistant Do?
A laboratory assistant provides essential support to scientists, analysts, and technicians by helping maintain the daily operations of a laboratory. These professionals are responsible for a range of tasks that keep the lab organized and running efficiently, including preparing materials, cleaning equipment, and labeling or sorting samples. While they may not conduct advanced testing or data analysis, laboratory assistants play a critical role in ensuring that procedures can be carried out smoothly and that all equipment and supplies are in proper working order.
Laboratory assistants are commonly employed in healthcare, pharmaceutical, environmental, and research settings. They support lab staff by setting up workstations, preparing chemical solutions, logging samples, and managing supplies. Their responsibilities also include maintaining cleanliness, following safety protocols, and accurately recording inventory. This role is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on laboratory experience and exposure to scientific work environments, often serving as a first step toward more advanced lab roles such as laboratory analyst or technician.
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Lab Assistant Core Responsibilities
- Prepare and label samples, slides, or test tubes for analysis
- Set up laboratory equipment and workstations for daily procedures
- Clean and sterilize glassware and surfaces to ensure safe working conditions
- Maintain inventory of supplies and notify supervisors of stock needs
- Assist with basic measurements and solution preparation
- Dispose of biohazardous or chemical waste according to safety regulations
- Log sample data and maintain organized records
- Follow safety protocols and report any equipment malfunctions or hazards
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Familiarity with basic lab tools and equipment (pipettes, beakers, autoclaves)
- Knowledge of safety practices and chemical handling
- Ability to measure, prepare, and label lab materials accurately
- Data entry and recordkeeping skills
Soft skills
- Reliability and punctuality
- Attention to detail and cleanliness
- Strong organizational skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Willingness to follow instructions and learn new procedures
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a science-related field preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in a laboratory, healthcare, or research setting
- Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) or lab safety regulations
- Coursework in biology, chemistry, or related fields
National Average Salary
Lab assistant salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Laboratory Assistant is:
$44,288
Determining the pay for a lab assistant involves a lot of variables. The average salary typically ranges from around $17 to $20 per hour, but this can vary based on the type of healthcare facility and its location. Hospitals and research labs might offer higher wages compared to doctors’ offices due to the complexity and volume of work. Additionally, the cost of living in different regions influences salary levels, with high-cost cities often offering higher pay than rural ones. Other factors include experience, education, and certifications, as well as the specific duties and responsibilities on the lab team.
Sample Job Description Templates for Lab Assistants
Clinical Laboratory Assistant
Position Overview
We’re seeking a Clinical Laboratory Assistant to support routine testing and sample preparation in a fast-paced clinical setting. This role plays an essential part in the diagnostic process, helping technologists and lab scientists manage patient specimens and maintain accurate records. It’s ideal for candidates looking to build hands-on healthcare experience within a laboratory environment.
Responsibilities
- Receive and label patient samples for diagnostic testing
- Prepare specimens for centrifugation, staining, or analysis
- Assist with basic laboratory tasks in hematology, microbiology, or urinalysis units
- Maintain clean and sanitized workstations and equipment
- Ensure proper disposal of biological waste and sharps
- Support technologists in maintaining inventory and supplies
- Adhere to CLIA, OSHA, and HIPAA guidelines
Requirements
Hard skills
- Sample handling and preparation
- Basic understanding of clinical testing procedures
- Knowledge of lab safety and infection control protocols
Soft skills
- Attention to detail and strong organizational habits
- Communication with lab staff and nursing teams
- Ability to manage high-volume workflows
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate’s degree or completion of a clinical lab assistant program preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a hospital or diagnostic laboratory
- Familiarity with LIS (Laboratory Information Systems)
Research Laboratory Assistant
Position Overview
We are hiring a Research Laboratory Assistant to support ongoing scientific investigations and laboratory studies. This role assists researchers with material preparation, data collection, and experiment setup. It’s well-suited for individuals who are organized, curious, and interested in gaining exposure to academic or private-sector R&D.
Responsibilities
- Set up lab equipment and materials for experiments
- Measure and mix solutions under direction of lead researchers
- Maintain clean lab space and sterilize tools after use
- Assist with data entry and logbook updates
- Label, organize, and store samples for ongoing studies
- Maintain lab inventory and place supply orders as needed
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with pipetting, pH measurement, or solution prep
- Understanding of scientific measurement and documentation
- Proficiency in MS Excel or lab software
Soft skills
- Curiosity and willingness to learn
- Strong observational and recordkeeping skills
- Ability to follow detailed procedures precisely
Education
- Bachelor’s or associate’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior internship or experience in an academic or industrial lab
- Familiarity with IRB, IACUC, or research compliance protocols
Pharmaceutical Laboratory Assistant
Position Overview
We are seeking a Pharmaceutical Laboratory Assistant to support quality control and product testing activities in a GMP-regulated environment. This role helps ensure product integrity by assisting analysts in preparing materials, maintaining documentation, and adhering to compliance standards. It’s an excellent entry point for a career in the pharmaceutical industry.
Responsibilities
- Assist with preparation of chemical reagents and test samples
- Clean and maintain laboratory glassware and tools
- Support documentation for batch testing and QC reports
- Track inventory and prepare sampling kits for production batches
- Dispose of hazardous materials following SOPs
- Maintain compliance with GMP, FDA, and company protocols
Requirements
Hard skills
- Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- Familiarity with lab safety protocols and chemical handling
- Ability to follow and document SOPs
Soft skills
- Strong sense of accountability and precision
- Organized and dependable in fast-paced settings
- Team-oriented with clear communication
Education
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, or related field
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a GMP or FDA-regulated lab
- Training in quality control or pharmaceutical documentation
Environmental Laboratory Assistant
Position Overview
We’re hiring an Environmental Laboratory Assistant to help process environmental samples and maintain equipment used in water, soil, and air quality testing. This role supports environmental scientists by ensuring samples are logged, stored, and prepared for accurate testing. Candidates with strong attention to safety and detail will thrive in this role.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and label environmental samples for analysis
- Assist with testing for contaminants or chemical composition
- Support instrument calibration and maintenance logs
- Handle chemical reagents safely and maintain clean workspaces
- Track samples and update chain-of-custody records
- Assist with compliance reporting and documentation
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic chemistry or environmental science lab skills
- Familiarity with EPA testing procedures or safety protocols
- Proficiency with scales, pH meters, and basic lab equipment
Soft skills
- Accuracy in labeling and recordkeeping
- Adherence to safety and compliance procedures
- Ability to work both independently and in a team
Education
- Associate’s degree or coursework in environmental science, chemistry, or a related field
Preferred Qualifications
- Field experience collecting water, air, or soil samples
- Knowledge of environmental regulations or ISO 17025
Forensic Laboratory Assistant
Position Overview
We’re seeking a Forensic Laboratory Assistant to support evidence handling, documentation, and preparation activities in a forensic lab environment. This position requires a high level of attention to detail, confidentiality, and adherence to strict chain-of-custody procedures. It’s ideal for candidates interested in criminal justice or forensic science.
Responsibilities
- Assist with logging and labeling forensic samples and evidence
- Prepare evidence for toxicology or DNA analysis
- Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organize forensic tools
- Track chain-of-custody documentation accurately
- Comply with security and confidentiality protocols
- Assist in preparing case documentation and evidence kits
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with evidence handling and legal documentation
- Understanding of sterile and secure sample storage procedures
- Data entry and file management accuracy
Soft skills
- Discretion, confidentiality, and integrity
- Detail-oriented and methodical
- Strong written communication and recordkeeping
Education
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in forensic science, biology, or criminal justice
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a crime lab, morgue, or law enforcement setting
- Training in chain-of-custody or forensic evidence protocols