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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Clinical Lab Associate information

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$11

$28

$50

How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab associate in Tennessee is $28.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $37.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Clinical Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining accuracy under time constraints, and adhering to strict regulatory standards. Effective time management, meticulous attention to detail, and consistent communication with team members are crucial in overcoming these hurdles. Many labs provide ongoing training and support to help staff stay current with best practices and emerging technologies, ensuring that associates can deliver reliable results in a fast-paced environment.

What is a clinical lab associate?

Clinical Lab Associates are healthcare professionals who assist in the preparation, processing, and analysis of laboratory specimens. They work under the supervision of laboratory technologists or scientists to ensure tests are conducted accurately and efficiently. Their responsibilities often include specimen collection, data entry, equipment maintenance, and quality control. Clinical Lab Associates play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring patient health by supporting laboratory operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical lab associate?

A Clinical Lab Associate needs a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, usually supported by a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), automated analyzers, and standard laboratory safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate test results, efficient workflow, and compliance with regulatory standards, which are critical to patient care and laboratory operations.

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

AspectClinical Lab AssociateMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology; certification usually required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, processing, basic testing, data entryPerforming complex tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Industry UsageCommonly employed in healthcare settings for sample handlingMore involved in testing procedures and analysis

While both roles support laboratory operations, Clinical Lab Associates typically focus on sample collection and basic processing, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. The choice depends on your education level and desired responsibilities within the lab environment.

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Clinical Lab Associate jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Clinical Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Associate job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,543 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


East Tennessee Children's Hospital rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

681st of 1,059 rated hospitals


Job description

BASIC PURPOSE OF THE JOB
Performs test procedures in all departments of the laboratory: blood bank, coagulation, chemistry, hematology, microbiology, special procedures, urinalysis, etc. Follows all laboratory and hospital policies and procedures related to testing, specimen collections, quality control, result verifications, reporting procedures, infection control, maintenance, lab and public safety, etc. Performs other duties as assigned.
REPORTS TO
  • Director-Laboratory

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Supervisory Responsibilities: NO
Minimum Education: Associates degree Required
Degree: Degree from an accredited college offering a NCCLS approved Medical Laboratory Technician program or completion of a clinical lab training program
License/Certification Required: Certification as an MLT by the ASCP, AMT or AAB
Minimum Work Experience: 2 years related laboratory experience preferred
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, equipment, and techniques of medical technology.
  • Skill in both verbal and written communication.
  • Is able to multitask, handle stress appropriately, and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Works well with others and consistently displays a courteous, professional attitude in all situations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Performs accurate and appropriate testing of specimens received in the laboratory, according to established laboratory protocol and procedures
  • Documents and reports test results in a timely manner and according to established laboratory protocol and procedures: Verifies accuracy of results before reporting results. Investigates and documents problems with unacceptable specimens. Follows established guidelines for resolving patient specimen problems.
  • Follows established procedures for laboratory quality control and reports discrepancies to the appropriate supervisor: Accurately analyzes and evaluates QC results obtained before accepting and reporting patient test results. Records results obtained for quality control testing as defined in test procedure.
  • Performs daily, weekly, monthly, or as needed, maintenance on instruments and equipment as appropriate. Performs calibration of equipment as required
  • Completes work assignments on time/readily accepts assignments
  • Produces consistent quality results while maintaining a large quantity of work.
  • Meets deadlines and turn-around times for test results, preventative maintenance.
  • Complies with established laboratory and hospital policies for universal precautions and safety procedures.
  • Demonstrates respect and regard for the dignity of all patients, families, visitors, and fellow employees to ensure a professional, responsible, and courteous environment
  • Assures standards are met related to calibrations, documentation, etc.
  • Demonstrates reliability and speed in reporting, spec processing, calibrations, etc.
  • Effectively manages technical aspects of work areas.
  • Promotes effective working relations and works effectively as part of a department/unit team inter- and intra-departmentally to facilitate the department's/unit's ability to meet its goals and objectives
  • Foster and encourage principles of C/FCC to include: communication, education, orientation, and implementation of C/FCC actions and projects.
  • Acts as a resource for test-related issues for technicians, phlebotomists, secretary and other medical staff, as appropriate.
  • Creates a productive work environment as related to expectations, interruptions, schedules, etc.
  • Willingly accepts any other assignment that may be requested.
  • Minimizes costs in supplies, time and training to product test results by following established procedures and taking care to "do it right the first time".
  • Minimizes costs in equipment repairs, repeat work, QC, etc. by following established procedures and taking care to "do it right the first time".
  • Utilizes hospital resources and time respectfully and accountably.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
  • Light lifting, pushing and pulling is required for 10-20 lbs occasionally and frequent moving of objects of less than 10 lbs is required. Frequent sitting with some walking, standing, squatting, bending and reaching is required. Keyboard/computer use and/or repetitive motions may be required.

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