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Clinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ... the Medical Lab Assistant position within 6 months. Licensure Requirement: Employee must have a ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Medical Lab Assistant Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional Overview ... Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ...

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Senior Lab Assistant Part Time, 48 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional Overview ... Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ...

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview Senior Lab Assistant Part Time, 48 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional ... Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ...

Covenant Health

CLIN LAB ASSISTANT SR

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Overview Clinical Laboratory Assistant | Senior Clinical Laboratory Assistant, General Laboratory Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Methodist Overview: Methodist Medical Center of Oak ...

Covenant Health

CLIN LAB ASSISTANT SR

Oak Ridge, TN

$15.50 - $21/hr

Clinical Laboratory Assistant | Senior Clinical Laboratory Assistant, General Laboratory Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Methodist Overview: Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, part ...

Ubertal Inc

Laboratory Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Quality Control Lab Assistant | Laboratory Technician | cGMP Location: On-site -- Knoxville, TN, United States Duration: 6-Month Contract | Full-Time | 2nd Shift (Sunday-Thursday, 2:30pm-11:00pm ...

Covenant Health

LAB TECHNICIAN

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Performs routine and specialized clinical lab tests for use in the diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians.Collects and properly handles venous and capillary blood specimens.

Covenant Health

LAB TECHNICIAN

Knoxville, TN

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Performs routine and specialized clinical lab tests for use in the diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians.Collects and properly handles venous and capillary blood specimens. * Maintains ...

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All JobsClinical Lab JobsClinical Lab Assistant JobsClinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$25

$67

How much do clinical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $25.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $25.72 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 are popular job titles related to Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Clinical Lab Assistant job openings:
Clinical Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Assistant job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,106 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Covenant Health

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Overview
Medical Lab Assistant
Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift
Fort Sanders Regional Overview:
Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical expertise with advanced medical technology to deliver exceptional care. As a Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center, we provide leading-edge treatment for stroke recovery. Our facility also offers specialized services in bariatric surgery, robotic surgery, minimally invasive spine procedures, and advanced orthopedic care.
Fort Sanders Regional is part of Covenant Health, East Tennessee's largest nonprofit health system and a Becker's "Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare." Covenant Health includes nine hospitals and nearly 150 service locations, offering employees a comprehensive benefits package with tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, certification bonuses, and leadership development programs.
Position Summary:
The Medical Laboratory Assistant performs the pre-analytical and preparatory portion of the testing process for routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for use in diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians. The individual will perform only those processes that s/he has been trained and found competent in performing. Must also be able to perform the duties of a Sr. Laboratory Assistant.
Responsibilities
  • Performs preparatory functions necessary to complete routine and high complexity tests that the individual has been trained in. Functions include:
    • Centrifuging; pouring off blood, body fluid, and urine specimens; preparing specimens for testing; and archiving specimens
    • Checking applicable specimens for clots if needed prior to proceeding for testing
    • Performing pipetting techniques for appropriate specimen preparations
    • Preparing peripheral blood smears for staining for microscopic examination
    • Staining peripheral blood smears by automated method
    • Loading primary bar-coded clinical specimens on any trained analyzer
    • Preparing microbiology specimens for cultures and gram stains, including inoculation of microbiology culture plates from primary clinical specimens, slide preparation and staining by automated method
    • Preparing specimens for KOH examinations
    • Preparing specimens for GMS stains for pathology and track according to protocol
    • Preparing and loading blood culture specimens into appropriate incubators
    • Preparing specimens for PCR testing
    • Preparing viral culture specimens for testing by appropriate reference laboratory, and completing required regulatory documentation
    • Preparing 24-hour urine containers with preservatives
    • Receiving and tagging new reagent inventory, and sorting by lot number to separate current versus new reagent lot numbers
    • Performing required quality checks of eye wash and emergency shower stations
  • Follows the Laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, and preparatory steps.
  • Documents all corrective actions taken when the test process deviates from the Laboratory's established performance specifications. Does not submit patient specimens for testing until all corrective action has been taken.
  • Identifies problems that may adversely affect a test result and either corrects or notifies a licensed Laboratory employee to assist.
  • Utilizes the LIS in patient accessioning, and monitors incomplete and collection lists. Follows up by locating specimens and taking appropriate next steps, including loading specimens, aliquoting, or notifying a MLT/MT of issues.
  • Operates, maintains and troubleshoots applicable Laboratory equipment, e.g. centrifuges, stainers, etc, as trained to use.
  • Checks communication boards at least weekly.
  • Plans work to insure maximum productivity with minimum amount of 'carry over' work, while keeping overtime to a minimum. Responsible for communicating to the next shift and other appropriate staff needed information about patient samples or equipment performance.
  • Acts as resource person for phlebotomy if trained appropriately, including outpatients.
  • Maintains and disinfects work area.
  • Assists with coverage of the pneumatic tube system, processing and distributing specimens.
  • Handles biohazard wastes according to policy.
  • Performs any job-related duties assigned by competent authority. Helps other departments as qualifications and needs permit.
  • Assists in the orientation and training of new and existing employees.
  • Responsible for care, maintenance, trouble-shooting and notification of Manager when equipment is in need of repair or replacement (i.e. stainers, centrifuges, printers, fax/copy machines, etc.).
  • Performs pipette and glassware cleanings, timer verifications, centrifuge rpms, and thermometer verifications, and pipette verifications.
  • Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports.
  • Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
  • Local travel may be required.

Qualifications
Minimum Education:
None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED. Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.
Minimum Experience:
Basic computer skills, medical terminology, registration and phlebotomy skills or equivalent combination of clinical/clerical skills. Upon hire, must successfully complete a Covenant Health Training Program specific for the Medical Lab Assistant position within 6 months.
Licensure Requirement:
Employee must have a valid Tennessee driver's license Class D and state mandated minimum insurance coverage. Driving record must meet Covenant Health minimum standards at the date of hire and throughout employment tenure.

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