1

Clinical Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Under direct supervision* of a certified clinician, assist certified and/or licensed practitioners ... Hand skills necessary to use laboratory tools safely and effectively. * Knowledge of biomechanical ...

Under direct supervision* of a certified clinician, assist certified and/or licensed practitioners ... Hand skills necessary to use laboratory tools safely and effectively. * Knowledge of biomechanical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Clinical Laboratory Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$13

$24

$66

How much do clinical laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical laboratory assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Clinical Laboratory Assistants?

Clinical Laboratory Assistants are healthcare professionals who support laboratory technologists and technicians by preparing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and performing basic tests. They help ensure accurate and efficient processing of specimens such as blood, urine, and tissue. Their work is essential in aiding doctors to diagnose and treat patients by providing reliable laboratory results. Clinical Laboratory Assistants often work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic laboratories, following strict safety and quality protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Laboratory Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and a high school diploma or equivalent—often supplemented by a relevant certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help you work efficiently and accurately in a team environment. These competencies are crucial to ensure precise test results, maintain safety standards, and support the smooth operation of clinical laboratories.

What is the difference between Clinical Laboratory Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Laboratory AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingPost-secondary diploma or certificate in medical laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job DutiesPrepare specimens, maintain lab equipment, assist with testsPerform laboratory tests, analyze samples, record results

While both roles support laboratory operations, Medical Laboratory Technicians typically have formal post-secondary training and perform more complex testing, whereas Clinical Laboratory Assistants focus on specimen preparation and support tasks with less formal education.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a clinical laboratory assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, 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 is the role of a clinical lab assistant?

A clinical laboratory assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing specimens, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data. They work under the supervision of medical technologists or laboratory managers and often handle tasks such as labeling samples and ensuring proper storage. Attention to detail and basic knowledge of laboratory procedures are essential for this role.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

The average salary for a clinical laboratory assistant typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salaries are often complemented by benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What are the typical interactions between a Clinical Laboratory Assistant and other healthcare professionals during a workday?

Clinical Laboratory Assistants regularly collaborate with medical technologists, laboratory managers, and sometimes directly with nurses or physicians. Their day often involves receiving and labeling specimens, communicating with phlebotomists about sample collection, and ensuring that test results are accurately relayed to the appropriate clinical staff. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential, as errors in specimen handling can impact patient care. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps Clinical Laboratory Assistants support the broader healthcare team in delivering accurate diagnostic information.

What is the highest salary for a lab assistant?

The highest salary for a clinical laboratory assistant typically ranges up to $40,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Advanced skills, specialized training, and working in high-cost areas can lead to higher compensation.
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Clinical Laboratory Assistant jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Clinical Laboratory Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Laboratory Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,264 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Laboratory Scientist - PRN - SRMC, (990)

Laboratory Scientist - PRN - SRMC, (990)

TriCore Reference Laboratories

Rio Rancho, NM • On-site

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Schedule: Days and shifts as needed.
Location: SRMC
Salary/Hourly: Hourly Position
Job Summary: Under general supervision, performs waived, moderate or high complexity laboratory tests for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment of disease. Performs maintenance, basic troubleshooting and repairs of laboratory equipment. Runs and evaluates quality control testing to ensure equipment is functional prior to patient testing. May assist with the implementation and oversight of waived point of care testing. Staff in this job description meet the qualifications for designation as "Testing Personnel" for moderate and high complexity testing under CLIA regulations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Performs/results and documents clinical laboratory testing exercising independent judgment and responsibility.
2. Notes abnormal patient results and informs supervisor, pathologist, or principal investigator as appropriate.
3. Operates laboratory equipment, interfaces and instruments, performs and documents basic maintenance procedures.
4. Performs routine logging for QC/QA purposes. Collects and compiles QA data as directed. Monitors QC for trends and takes and documents corrective action as needed or directed.
5. Performs troubleshooting procedures. Identifies testing problems and recommends appropriate solutions using defined guidelines.
6. Actively participates in regulatory inspections.
7. Takes inventory as needed or appropriate. Orders supplies for the Section/Department as directed.
8. Assists with training of new staff and/or students.
9. Serves as a liaison with internal and external customers/employees/clients.
10. Depending on the site or department, may participate in the POCT oversight program including but not limited to;
a) training lab and non-lab personnel in the use of waived testing.
b) Troubleshoot the performance of waived testing, including IT connectivity issues.
c) Review the quality performance of waived testing.
d) Participate in the implementation, including validation, if necessary, of waived testing.
11. Depending on the site or department, may collect specimens such as blood, urine, sputum and other body fluids and prepare for analysis.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.
Minimum Qualifications:
Selected candidates for the TriCore Laboratory Scientist position will be placed into LS I, LS II, LS III, or LS IV based on education and experience as follows:
Laboratory Scientist I:
Must meet one of the following per CLIA regulations:
• Bachelor's degree in biological, or chemical science from an accredited institution. Note- Candidate may qualify with a Bachelor's degree in physical sciences through December 31, 2024, or
• Associate's degree in laboratory science (biology or chemistry) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution, or
• Have education and training equivalent to an associate degree in a laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution that includes -
At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, include either:
(1) 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses; or
(2) 24 semester hours of science courses that include -
(i) Six semester hours of chemistry.
(ii) Six semester hours of biology; and
(iii) Twelve semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination, or
• Have previously qualified or could have qualified as a technologist under CLIA regulations on or before February 28, 1992
No experience required.
Laboratory Scientist II:
Must meet one of the following:
• Bachelor's degree in clinical laboratory science, medical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited Institution. No experience required, or
• Bachelor's degree in biology, or chemistry science from an accredited institution AND two years' direct clinical laboratory experience, Note: bachelor's degree in physical science acceptable if completed prior to December 31, 2024, or
• Associate's degree in laboratory science (biology or chemistry) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution AND two years' direct clinical laboratory experience, or • Two years' direct clinical laboratory experience AND have education and training equivalent to an associate degree in a laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution that includes -
At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, include either -
(1) 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses; or
(2) 24 semester hours of science courses that include -
(i) Six semester hours of chemistry.
(ii) Six semester hours of biology; and
(iii) Twelve semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination, or
• Two years' direct clinical laboratory experience AND have previously qualified or could have qualified as a technologist under CLIA regulations on or before February 28, 1992, or
• Successful completion of a U.S. military medical laboratory training course AND bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry AND one year of direct clinical laboratory testing experience.
Laboratory Scientist III:
Must meet one of the following:
• Two years of Laboratory Scientist II at TriCore, or
• Bachelor's degree in biology, or chemistry science from an accredited institution AND four years' direct clinical laboratory experience, Note bachelor's degree in physical science is acceptable if completed prior to December 31, 2024 or
• Bachelor's degree in clinical laboratory science, medical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited Institution, AND two years' direct clinical laboratory experience, or
• Successful completion of a U.S. military medical laboratory training course AND bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry AND three years of direct clinical laboratory testing experience, or
• Associate's degree in laboratory science (biology or chemistry) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution AND four years' direct clinical laboratory experience, or
• Four year's direct clinical laboratory experience AND have education and training equivalent to an associate degree in a laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution that includes -
At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, include either -
(1) 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses; or
(2) 24 semester hours of science courses that include -
(i) Six semester hours of chemistry.
(ii) Six semester hours of biology; and
(iii) Twelve semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination, or
• Four years' direct clinical laboratory experience AND have previously qualified or could have qualified as a technologist under CLIA regulations on or before February 28, 1992
Laboratory Scientist IV:
Must meet one of the following:
• Bachelor's degree in clinical laboratory science, medical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited Institution, AND four years' direct clinical laboratory experience, or
• Bachelor's degree in biology, or chemistry science from an accredited institution AND four years' direct clinical laboratory experience.
PREFERENCES*: ASCP or AMT certification as a BB, C, CG, H, M, MB, MLT, MLS, SBB, SC, SCYM, SH, SM, or SMB, or ADLM Certification in POCT, or ACHI certification as CHA,CHT or CHS, or NRCC Certification as a Toxicological Chemist or Toxicological Technologist
*Certification required for LS IV placement
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS: Prove immunity to Hepatitis B or be immunized or sign a waiver refusing hepatitis immunization. Provide documentation of a tuberculosis (TB) test conducted not more than 90 days prior to date of hire or have a TB test conducted.
IN DEPARTMENTS/LOCATIONS WITH DIRECT PATIENT CONTACT: Prove immunity or be eligible to receive rubella, rubeola and varicella immunization.
TriCore is New Mexico's largest laboratory, employing more than 1,400 individuals who serve in a broad range of positions. We are dedicated to improving the quality of care for our communities, and also our employees. We foster a culture of integrity, are dedicated to excellence, and are looking for passionate individuals with a desire to have an impact in patient care, the core of our strategy. We offer excellent benefits including, medical, dental, vision and life insurances, 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching, PTO, and paid holidays, as well as opportunities for continuous learning, education assistance, wellness programs, career advancement, and the ability to share in our genuine commitment to the health of our communities. We offer a variety of shifts at multiple locations.