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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Clinical Lab Associate information

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How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab associate in Raleigh, NC is $30.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $40.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical lab associate?

A clinical lab associate is a healthcare professional responsible for performing laboratory tests on patient samples to assist in diagnosis and treatment. They typically handle specimen processing, operate laboratory equipment, and follow safety protocols, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of laboratory procedures.

Where do CLS get paid the most?

Clinical Lab Associates tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare industries, such as major metropolitan areas. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the size of the employer, with larger hospitals and private labs often offering higher pay.

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 are Clinical Lab Associates?

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, and why are they important?

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a clinical lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate degree or certification in clinical laboratory science. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and knowledge of safety protocols. Certification or training may be required depending on the specific role and employer.

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

A clinical lab associate or lab assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often working in hospital or diagnostic laboratory settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Lab jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Clinical Lab jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Clinical Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Clinical Lab Associate job openings:
Immunohematology Specialist

Immunohematology Specialist

The Blood Connection

Morrisville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


The Blood Connection rating

4.3

Company rating: 4.3 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At The Blood Connection, every role plays a part in saving lives. Join our team and help make an impact in your community today!
Schedule: Thursday-Sunday, 9:00pm to 7:30am
  • 24 Days PTO! - Use it, Cash it, Roll it
  • Potential Company Bonuses
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Health Insurance (Medical, Vision, and Dental)
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care FSA
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Basic Life Insurance

Shift Differentials:
  • Extra $1.50/hr. after 7:00pm; extra $2.00/hr. on the weekend

Position Overview
  • A Testing Lab (Immunohematology) Specialist is a clinical laboratory scientist with a broad knowledge of procedures routinely performed in a medical laboratory and a working knowledge of all procedures performed in a relevant specialty area.
  • Primarily involves the application of this knowledge through the performance of analytical related tasks using blood or blood products, the correlation of test results and the solution of testing problems, and the continued development of operational skills through daily workload responsibilities.

Essential Functions
Reference Lab:
  • Performs sickle cell testing
  • Performs platelet cross-matching
  • Performs RBC cross-matching
  • Performs ABO/Rh on patients
  • Performs antigen typing
  • Performs quality control
  • Correlates laboratory test results with patient diagnosis and treatment
  • Teaches MLT students during clinical rotation
  • Performs antibody identification procedures
  • Fills blood orders
  • Maintains adequate inventory of rare frozen blood
  • Rotates on-call responsibilities

Laboratory Computer:
  • Uses the LIS to manage donor-testing information generated by automated testing equipment

Quarantining/Discarding Blood Components:
  • Identifies products that require quarantine or discard due to non-conforming test results and communicates information to the component lab

Equipment Care:
  • Performs calibration of equipment as needed
  • Performs maintenance procedures as indicated by equipment manufacturer's recommendations

Miscellaneous:
  • Other duties as assigned or required

Minimum Qualifications
  • ASCP Certification preferred, but not required
  • MLT/MT Degree strongly preferred or Associates Degree in Laboratory Science or one of the following:
    • Completion of a clinical lab training program or
    • 3 months training in each specialty in which high complexity testing is performed
    • 60 semester hours including 24 semesters of medical lab technology;
    • 60 semester hours including 24 hours of science that includes 6 hours chemistry, 6 hours biology and 12 hours chemistry, biology, or medical lab tech in any combination and laboratory training that includes either:
  • ASCP certification required either before or after employment
  • Ability to organize and prioritize workload and meet deadlines
  • Ability to communicate effectively, tactfully, and courteously to patrons, donors, sponsors, and co-workers
  • Ability to work with all levels and in a diverse work environment
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, and peers

Physical Demands
  • Lifting, carrying, pulling and/or pushing up to 50 pounds
  • Repetitive sitting to standing movement throughout a shift
  • Bending and twisting

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled

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