1

Clinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician I

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17/hr

Lab Technician 1 Make an impact. Build a career. At Pace ® , we're committed to continuously moving science forward; to innovate and advance sustainable practices that improve the health and safety ...

Lab Technician 1 Make an impact. Build a career. At Pace, we're committed to continuously moving science forward; to innovate and advance sustainable practices that improve the health and safety of ...

Lab Technician 1 Make an impact. Build a career. At Pace ® , we're committed to continuously moving science forward; to innovate and advance sustainable practices that improve the health and safety ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$24

$66

How much do clinical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab assistant in Decatur, AL is $24.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $25.24 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.

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 degree do you need for a lab assistant?

A clinical lab assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; however, some positions may require postsecondary education such as a certificate or an associate degree in laboratory technology or a related field. Relevant skills include familiarity with laboratory equipment and procedures, and certification is not usually mandatory but can enhance job prospects.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

The average salary for a clinical lab assistant in the United States ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions typically start around $20,000 to $25,000 annually, with higher pay for those with specialized skills or advanced training.

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 job categories do people searching Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Clinical Lab Assistant job openings:
Manager Clinical Affairs

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

About Discovery Life Sciences:

Discovery Life Sciences (Discovery) is a leading provider of highly characterized human biospecimens and cellular starting materials to advance cell and gene therapy and precision medicine programs for cancer, infectious disease, and other complex conditions. We routinely manage hundreds of studies and expertly test thousands of biospecimens simultaneously. Leading biopharma, diagnostic and academic institutions trust us to quickly deliver high-quality biospecimens and reliable, reproducible biomarker data, so they can outpace their competition and push the leading edge of innovation using our Science at your Service TM business model.

Position Summary:

The Manager, Clinical Affairs contributes to our mission by overseeing our clinical sites to implement, expand and improve the processes and relationships of Discovery Life Sciences throughout its clinical site network. This individual will collaborate with other members of the Clinical Affairs team to monitor and execute all processes for Discovery Life Sciences to obtain maximum effective and efficient performance. Key contacts for this position include site personnel involved in the research trials - patients, administration, physicians, Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs) and staff from operating rooms, lab, clinical areas, and pathology.

A Day in the Life of a Manager, Clinical Affairs at Discovery Life Sciences:

  • Lead and Support Clinical Sites: Serve as the main point of contact for assigned clinical research sites—building strong relationships with site personnel, managing Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs), and ensuring site performance aligns with company goals.
  • Drive Operational Excellence: Oversee daily activities at sites, resolve issues, implement site-specific plans, and maintain up-to-date regulatory documentation and trackers.
  • Collaborate Across Teams: Partner with cross-functional teams including Quality, Regulatory, and Product Managers to support trials, improve sourcing, and uphold compliance and productivity standards.
  • Stay Connected and Onsite: Travel regularly (20–30%) to clinical sites to support study execution, monitor operations, and foster engagement with investigators and clinical teams.

Must-Have Qualifications (Education, Skills, Experience):

  • Bachelor’s degree, preferably in life sciences 
  • 3+ years of comparable clinical research or project management experience
  • Knowledge of clinical research trials and previous leadership experience preferred
  • CCRA, CCRP, or equivalent certification preferred
  • Familiar with principles, concepts, and standard of care associated with clinical trial or research study design and execution
  • Experience in a clinical research organization or oncology/infectious disease/autoimmune research.
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks
  • Must be able to tolerate the sight of body fluids including blood/blood products, stool, sputum, and tissue as well as tolerate unpleasant odors of various specimens and chemicals
  • Ability to travel up to 20-30% of the time; Travel to clinical sites at a minimum of an annual basis.
  • Preferred home base near a major airport

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Supervise all activities at assigned sites, which may include direct oversight and management of internal network Clinical Research Coordinators (CRC)
    • Manage relationships at assigned sites and expand capabilities to incorporate new sites and procedures
    • Maintain and grow collaborative relationships with all site personnel involved in DLS research
    • Develop, coordinate and enforce systems, policies, procedures, and productivity standards
    • Stay abreast of industry-accepted procedures
    • Serve as liaison between DLS and sites to execute projects and maintain quality standards
    • Partner with Quality and the site’s Regulatory on promptly reportable incidents (PRIs)
    • Assist in the development and execution of site-specific performance plans
    • Travel to clinical sites at a minimum of an annual basis
    • Review and evaluate research requests to determine how sites can fulfill requests
    • Evaluate gaps in sourcing capabilities and implement plan for addressing sourcing needs
    • Maintain accurate data in Salesforce database and utilize communication tools
    • Develop and lead site specific implementation plan for initiation (SIV) and closing of clinical sites
    • Collect regulatory documentation, file properly, and ensure accuracy
    • Update site specific files and trackers
    • Manage, coordinate, and support clinical site monitoring activities according to the Site Monitoring Process for IMVs
    • Schedule visits, obtain proper access (remote, if needed) and maintain all applicable correspondence
    • Perform general monitoring functions per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): review data according to monitoring guidelines, ensure all documentation is present, and compile findings and complete reports
    • Resolve issues from previous visits, address protocol questions, and ensure outstanding documents are completed properly
    • Resolve site and/or monitoring issues including appropriate retraining, issue escalation, and implementation of corrective actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence, as needed
    • Respect the privacy of the personal information of patients, co-workers, and all individuals with whom the Company interacts. Maintain and grow collaborative relationships with all DLS personnel

    Compensation and Benefits:

    Discovery Life Sciences is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices, and we strive to provide employees with total compensation packages that are market competitive. For this role, the anticipated base pay range is $50,000-$80,000. The exact base pay offered for this role will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.

    Your annual salary is only one part of your total compensation package. Other benefits:

    • Competitive salary and benefits package options including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability which start on your first day of employment!
    • 401(k) match program which starts on your first day of employment
    • Time away from work (Generous vacation and paid time off, your paid parental leave, paid family leave, etc.).
    • Professional development opportunities and reimbursement for relevant certifications.
    • Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity.
    • Team-building activities and social events.
    • Employee Referral Program and Colleague Recognition Program

    Location, work hours, and application details:

    • Remote – United States
    • Hybrid, if located in Huntsville, AL or surrounding areas.
    • Monday - Friday, start time between 7am and 9am local time
    • Up to 30% domestic or international travel required for mandatory site meetings and trainings
    • Applications for this position will be accepted until the role has been filled

    We are actively seeking motivated, dedicated individuals like you to join our thriving organization. As a leader in our industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and success.
    Apply Now to join our team!
    Visit dls.com/careers for more details.