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Lab Aide Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Lab Aide information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$10

$15

$23

How much do lab aide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab aide in Oak Ridge, TN is $15.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $17.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab aide?

Lab aides are support staff who assist in laboratories by preparing materials, cleaning equipment, maintaining inventories, and sometimes helping with basic experiments or data entry. They work under the supervision of scientists, lab technicians, or instructors to ensure that the laboratory remains organized and safe. Lab aides play a crucial role in keeping daily operations running smoothly, allowing researchers and students to focus on more complex tasks.

What are the typical responsibilities of a lab aide?

Lab Aides play a crucial support role by assisting with routine tasks such as preparing equipment, cleaning glassware, maintaining supplies, and sometimes recording basic data. They help ensure that the laboratory runs smoothly and efficiently, allowing scientists and technicians to focus on more specialized tasks. This role often involves collaborating closely with lab staff, following strict safety protocols, and being adaptable to changing priorities. By maintaining an organized and well-stocked environment, Lab Aides significantly contribute to the productivity and safety of the entire laboratory team.

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

To thrive as a Lab Aide, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional coursework in science being advantageous. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and basic safety protocols is typically required. Strong organization, teamwork, and communication skills help a Lab Aide efficiently support researchers and maintain a safe work environment. These competencies ensure accurate results, compliance with safety standards, and smooth lab operations.

What is the difference between Lab Aide vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AideLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentPost-secondary education, often a certificate or associate degree
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsMedical labs, research facilities, hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample collection, preparing specimens, cleaning equipmentPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment

While both roles support laboratory operations, Lab Aides typically handle basic tasks and sample preparation, requiring minimal formal education. Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often requiring specialized training or certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How do I become a lab aide?

To become a lab aide, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete relevant coursework in biology or chemistry. Some positions prefer prior experience or training in laboratory procedures, and strong attention to detail and basic computer skills are often necessary. Certification is not usually mandatory but can enhance job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Lab Aide jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Lab Aide job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Aide job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,440 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Assistant Teacher for Childcare

Emory Valley Center Inc

Oak Ridge, TN

$15 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Emory Valley Center rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

Assistant Teacher 
  • Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour (based on experience)
  • Hours: Full-time (Mon - Fri)
  • Benefits Include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off (PTO), Retirement Plan, and more!
The Early Learning Center/Little Learning Lab

The Early Learning Center and Little Learning Lab at Emory Valley Center in Oak Ridge, TN, provide a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where young children of all abilities can grow, explore, and thrive. Designed to support early development through hands-on learning, individualized attention, and evidence-based practices, our programs help build a strong foundation for lifelong success. With passionate, highly trained staff and a focus on both education and social-emotional growth, families can feel confident their children are receiving the highest quality care. Whether you're seeking a supportive preschool, early intervention services, or a safe and engaging place for your child to learn and play, Emory Valley Center is the ideal choice-where every child is valued, and every family is welcomed.

The Emory Valley Center

At the Emory Valley Center in Oak Ridge, TN, everything we do is about the people we support-adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who deserve the chance to live full, meaningful lives. For over 70 years, we've walked alongside these incredible individuals, helping them achieve greater independence, connect with their communities, and reach their personal goals. Whether it's supporting someone in their first job, helping a child find their voice through therapy, or creating a safe, welcoming home, our team plays a vital role in life-changing moments every day. If you're looking for more than just a job-if you want to be inspired, uplifted, and part of something truly special-we'd love for you to join us.

Responsibilities

As an Assistant Teacher, your day-to-day responsibilities would include supporting lead teachers in planning and implementing classroom activities, supervising children to ensure safety, assisting with personal care needs like diapering, feeding, and toileting, maintaining a clean and engaging learning environment, encouraging positive behaviors, and documenting each child's daily experiences and developmental progress. You'll play an essential role in creating a nurturing, inclusive space where every child is supported and celebrated.

Requirements

Benefits

  • Attractive Compensation: Enjoy the flexibility of Pay on Demand (NetSpend) along with a comprehensive benefits package for our full-time team members, featuring a 401(k) plan.
  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy generous paid time off along with holiday pay to rejuvenate, ensuring you bring your best self to work each day.
  • A Strong Support System: Our supervisors are genuinely invested in the well-being of both our individuals and you!
  • Job Security: Enjoy peace of mind with a position at a well-established and thriving company that actively encourages internal mobility and career advancement.
  • Learning and Development: We are committed to your growth and equip you with the essential tools and training to build a rewarding career.
  • Wellness & Benefit Program: Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Referral Program, Gym Membership, and more!

If you're eager to create a positive impact in an Assistant Teacher and Floater position, or if you're simply curious about what Emory Valley Center has to offer, we invite you to apply using the links provided or reach out to HR@evcmail.org.


Emory Valley is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the Center to provide equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

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