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Clinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Phlebotomist - Clinical Lab Assistant

Newtown, VA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Overview As a phlebotomist-clinical lab assistant the duties are to perform patient phlebotomy while maintaining the highest level of customer service. Collects, labels, and processes patient ...

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Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$25

$70

How much do clinical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab assistant in Virginia is $25.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Lab Assistant, you need a strong background in biology or medical laboratory technology, attention to detail, and typically a certificate or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen processing equipment, and adherence to safety protocols is essential. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in a fast-paced, accuracy-driven environment. These skills ensure precise sample handling, reliable test results, and smooth laboratory operations, which are critical for patient diagnosis and care.

What is the difference between Clinical Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Lab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CertificationsNone required, but certification can enhance prospectsCertification often preferred or required (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with specimen collection, prepare samples, maintain lab equipmentPerform tests, analyze samples, record results
EducationHigh school diploma or equivalentPost-secondary education (associate degree)

While both roles support laboratory operations, Clinical Lab Assistants mainly assist with specimen handling and preparation, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and required credentials, but Medical Laboratory Technicians typically have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What is a clinical lab assistant?

A clinical lab assistant works in a medical lab, helping senior researchers to assess, analyze, and discover diseases and other medical issues. The duties of these technicians include inspecting specimens and running routine and specialized tests. They also maintain records, which are used to make reports to doctors or patients. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in biology, medical sciences, or a related field, as well as experience or training in a lab setting. Depending on state laws, clinical lab assistants may need certification. Other skills include attention to detail and strong written and verbal communication.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical lab assistants, and how can they be managed?

Clinical Lab Assistants often work in fast-paced environments where attention to detail is critical, especially when handling multiple samples and processing tests under time constraints. Managing workload efficiently and maintaining accurate records are essential to avoid errors. Communication with laboratory technologists and other healthcare professionals is also key, as it ensures smooth workflow and timely delivery of results. Staying organized, following strict protocols, and proactively seeking clarification when uncertain can help manage these challenges effectively.
More about Clinical Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Lab jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Clinical Lab jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Clinical Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,034 per year, or $26 per hour.

Clinical Lab Assistant - Lab Processing

Sentara Healthcare

Suffolk, VA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Sentara Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 412 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

531st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

City/State
Suffolk, VA
Work Shift
Second (Evenings)
Overview:
Sentara Obici Hospital is hiring a Clinical Lab Assistant to work part-time evenings in the clinical lab!
Overview
Primary point of contact for all specimen entry into the laboratory. Labels, processes, and distributes based on testing ordered and required. Monitors supply levels in the specimen processing area. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment; responsible for internal and external customer inquiry and problem resolution. Frequent interaction with hospitals, nursing facilities, and physician office staff.
Education
  • HS - High School Grad or Equivalent

Certification/Licensure
  • No specific certification or licensure requirements

Experience
  • 1 year healthcare experience (preferred)

keyword: laboratory services, monster, Talroo-Allied Health, lab
Benefits: Caring For Your Family and Your Career
Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Adoption, Fertility and Surrogacy Reimbursement up to 10,000
• Paid Time Off and Sick Leave
• Paid Parental & Family Caregiver Leave
• Emergency Backup Care
• Long-Term, Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans
• Life Insurance
• 401k/403B with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance - 5,250/year and discounted educational opportunities through Guild Education
• Student Debt Pay Down - 10,000
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Colleagues have the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus if established system and employee eligibility criteria is met.
Sentara Obici Hospital, a 175-bed state-of-the-art facility, is located on Godwin Boulevard in Suffolk, VA. Our full-service hospital continues a legacy of providing residents of Western Tidewater with high-quality, patient-centered care. As a recognized accredited Primary Stroke Center, and Magnet hospital for nursing excellence, the hospital specializes in orthopedic and spine, heart and vascular, advanced imaging, gynecological and comprehensive breast services, behavioral health, maternity, weight loss surgery, and a heartburn treatment center.
Sentara Health is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself on the diversity and inclusiveness of its close to an almost 30,000-member workforce. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging is a guiding principle of the organization to ensure its workforce reflects the communities it serves.
In support of our mission "to improve health every day," this is a tobacco-free environment.
For positions that are available as remote work, Sentara Health employs associates in the following states:
Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

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