ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Graduate Lab Assistant Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

St Joseph Medical Center

Laboratory Assistant

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$24.04 - $35.84/hr

... lab, organized for department distribution. Job Requirements Required * High School Graduate ... Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months Preferred * Certificate Other Lab Assistant ...

St. Joseph Medical Center

Laboratory Assistant

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$24.04 - $35.84/hr

... lab, organized for department distribution. Job Requirements Required * High School Graduate ... Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months Preferred * Certificate Other Lab Assistant ...

CommonSpirit Health

Laboratory Assistant

Lakewood, WA

... into the lab, organized for department distribution. Required * High School Graduate General ... Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months Preferred * Certificate Other Lab Assistant ...

St Joseph Medical Center

Laboratory Assistant

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$24.04 - $35.84/hr

... lab, organized for department distribution. Job Requirements Required * High School Graduate ... Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months Preferred * Certificate Other Lab Assistant ...

CommonSpirit Health

Laboratory Assistant

Federal Way, WA · On-site

... into the lab, organized for department distribution. Required * High School Graduate General ... Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months Preferred * Certificate Other Lab Assistant ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGraduate Lab JobsGraduate Lab Assistant JobsGraduate Lab Assistant Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Graduate Lab Assistant information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do graduate lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate lab assistant in Tacoma, WA is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate lab assistant?

Graduate lab assistants are graduate students who support professors and researchers in academic or research laboratories. Their responsibilities typically include preparing laboratory materials, assisting with experiments, maintaining equipment, and sometimes helping undergraduate students with lab work. They may also collect and analyze data, keep detailed records, and ensure that safety protocols are followed. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in scientific research and laboratory management, which is beneficial for their academic and career development.

What does a graduate lab assistant do?

As a Graduate Lab Assistant, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and organizational tasks each day. These often include preparing materials and equipment for experiments, assisting with data collection and analysis, maintaining laboratory cleanliness and safety standards, and supporting researchers or instructors with ongoing projects. You may also be responsible for inventory management and occasionally training new students on laboratory protocols. The role offers valuable exposure to advanced lab techniques and fosters close collaboration with faculty and research teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate lab assistant?

To thrive as a Graduate Lab Assistant, you need a solid background in laboratory techniques, scientific research methods, and relevant coursework in your field of study. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data analysis software such as Excel or specialized scientific tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, maintain lab safety, and support successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Graduate Lab Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectGraduate Lab AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, relevant courseworkUndergraduate or graduate student, relevant field of study
Work EnvironmentUniversity labs, academic settingsResearch institutions, labs, or university departments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, academic or industry research
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Graduate Lab Assistant and a Research Intern lies in their educational status and scope of work. Graduate Lab Assistants are typically enrolled graduate students working within university labs, focusing on supporting ongoing research. Research Interns may be undergraduate or graduate students gaining practical experience in research settings, often for a limited period. Both roles involve assisting with experiments and data collection but differ mainly in their educational level and specific responsibilities.

Can you get a graduate lab assistant job with no experience?

Graduate lab assistant positions often do not require extensive prior experience, as they typically provide on-the-job training. However, having relevant coursework, basic laboratory skills, or familiarity with scientific tools can improve chances of hiring. Employers may also look for strong organizational skills and the ability to follow safety protocols.

What qualifications do I need to be a graduate lab assistant?

To become a graduate lab assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in a relevant graduate program and have a strong background in the subject area, such as biology, chemistry, or engineering. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with lab equipment; some positions may also require prior research experience or certifications in safety procedures. Educational requirements usually include maintaining a minimum GPA and meeting any specific program prerequisites.
Graduate Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Lab Assistant job openings in Tacoma, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,227 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant

Lakewood, WA • On-site

St Joseph Medical Center
See more jobs at St Joseph Medical Centerexternal

$24.04 - $35.84/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As a Lab Assistant, you will play a crucial role in solving diagnostic mysteries, bringing us one step closer to effectively treating patient illnesses and injuries.
Every day you will utilize your expertise and our advanced technology to precisely collect, prepare, and process a diverse range of patient specimens (blood, urine, tissue, etc.) for various diagnostic tests.
To be successful in this role, you will possess a foundational understanding of laboratory procedures, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, and maintain an eager commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

  • Practices positive patient identification at all times, in all job functions.
  • Practices HumanKindness and courtesy with all patient and co-worker interactions.
  • Establishes and maintains good communication within the department and with other hospital departments.
  • Takes responsibility for the department workflow, assists all members of the team to maintain department workflow and efficiency.
  • Creates an atmosphere by manner, work and deed that fosters teamwork and collaboration.
  • Processes specimen into the lab, organized for department distribution.
Job Requirements

Required

  • High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or
  • High School GED General Studies, upon hire and
  • Basic Life Support (through AHA) - CPR, within 90 Days and
  • Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months


Preferred

  • Certificate Other Lab Assistant Program 6 months experience in an acute care facility, upon hire and
  • Certificate Other Phlebotomy program, upon hire
Where You'll Work

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.
Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.
Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.
We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.

Qualifications:

Required

  • High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or
  • High School GED General Studies, upon hire and
  • Basic Life Support (through AHA) - CPR, within 90 Days and
  • Medical Assistant - Phlebotomist: WA, within 6 - months


Preferred

  • Certificate Other Lab Assistant Program 6 months experience in an acute care facility, upon hire and
  • Certificate Other Phlebotomy program, upon hire
Employment Type: Part Time

Apply