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Clinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Phlebotomist - Clinical Lab Assistant

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

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

Phlebotomist - Clinical Lab Assistant

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

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

Phlebotomist - Clinical Lab Assistant

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

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

Clinical Lab Assistant I Job Code: LA3448 PRN Varies ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world ...

Sentara Leigh Hospital is hiring a Clinical Lab Assistant to work full time nights. (11a-730p) Overview Primary point of contact for all specimen entry into the laboratory. Labels, processes, and ...

Sentara Leigh Hospital is hiring a Clinical Lab Assistant to work full time nights. (11a-730p) Overview Primary point of contact for all specimen entry into the laboratory. Labels, processes, and ...

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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 Jun 14, 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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a clinical lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training or certification in laboratory procedures. Strong attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and good communication skills are also important for the role.

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 do clinical lab assistants do?

Clinical lab assistants support laboratory operations by preparing specimens, maintaining lab equipment, and recording test results. They often work under the supervision of medical technologists or laboratory managers and need attention to detail and basic knowledge of laboratory procedures.

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.

Who gets paid more, MLS or MLT?

Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) typically earn higher salaries than Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) due to advanced education and responsibilities. MLS professionals often hold a bachelor's degree and have more complex testing duties, which are reflected in their higher pay scale compared to MLTs, who usually have an associate degree and perform routine lab work.

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 is the highest salary for a lab assistant?

The highest salary for a clinical lab assistant can reach around $50,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Advanced skills, such as proficiency with laboratory equipment and certifications like CLT or MLT, can contribute to higher earnings.

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.

What are Clinical Lab Assistants?

Clinical Lab Assistants are healthcare professionals who support laboratory operations by preparing specimens, conducting basic tests, managing laboratory equipment, and maintaining records. They work under the supervision of medical laboratory technologists or scientists to ensure that lab results are accurate and samples are handled properly. Their role is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, as they help provide critical data for patient care.
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 job categories do people searching Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Lab Assistant 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 June 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.
Phlebotomist - Clinical Lab Assistant

Phlebotomist - Clinical Lab Assistant

Sentara

Newport News, VA • On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Sentara Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 384 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

484th of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

City/State

Norfolk, VA

Work Shift

First (Days)

Overview:

Sentara Health is hiring an experienced Phlebotomist-Clinical Lab Assistant to work part time day shift as an in office phlebotomist (IOP) in the Hampton Roads area!

*Offices are located in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Hampton, and Newport News.

As a phlebotomist -clinical lab assistant duties are to perform patient phlebotomy while maintaining the highest level of customer service. Collects, labels, and processes patient specimens for testing. Responsible for registration and test data entry. Monitors supply levels.

Education

  • High School Grad or Equivalent (required)
  • Phlebotomy course (preferred)

Certification/Licensure

  • Phlebotomy certification (Preferred)
  • BLS required within 60 days of hire

Experience

  • 1 year of experience (required)

Sentara Health, an integrated, not-for-profit health care delivery system, celebrates more than 130 years in pursuit of its mission - "we improve health every day." Sentara is one of the largest health systems in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, and among the top 20 largest not-for-profit integrated health systems in the country, with 30,000 employees, 12 hospitals in Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina, and the Sentara Health Plans division which serves more than 1 million members in Virginia and Florida. Sentara is recognized nationally for clinical quality and safety, and is strategically focused on innovation and creating an extraordinary health care experience for our patients and members.

Keyword: laboratory services; phlebotomy, Talroo-Allied Health, phlebotomist

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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
Reimbursement for certifications and free access to complete CEUs and professional development
Pet Insurance
Legal Resources Plan
Colleagues may have the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus if established system and employee eligibility criteria is met
Here at Sentara, we are committed to consistently enhancing our training, advancement tracks, work-life benefits, and more. Our goal is to make you feel more excited to be here every day!

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, located in Norfolk, VA, is a 525-bed tertiary care facility that is home to the only Level I Adult Trauma Center and burn trauma unit in Hampton Roads, and also serves as the primary teaching hospital for Eastern Virginia Medical School.

In addition to the high-quality heart program at Sentara Heart Hospital, our facility is home to Nightingale Regional Air Ambulance and several other dedicated facilities and specialized services. As a recognized accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center, and Magnet hospital for nursing excellence, our hospital specializes in heart and vascular, neurosciences, neurosurgery, urology, oncology, spine care, advanced imaging, behavioral health, maternity, and women's health, including a state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care unit.

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.


What Sentara Health employees say

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