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Lab Aide Jobs in Prairie Home, MO (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Lab Assistant II

Columbia, MO · On-site

$20.58 - $32.49/hr

Either: --Six (6) months of laboratory experience in one of the following areas: phlebotomy, processing specimens, laboratory aide, or completion of comparable medical training program; or --60 ...

Either: --Six (6) months of laboratory experience in one of the following areas: phlebotomy, processing specimens, laboratory aide, or completion of comparable medical training program; or --60 ...

Lab Aide information

See Prairie Home, MO salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do lab aide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab aide in Prairie Home, MO is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $19.13 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 Prairie Home, MO?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Prairie Home, MO are:

What cities near Prairie Home, MO are hiring for Lab Aide jobs?

Cities near Prairie Home, MO with the most Lab Aide job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Aide job openings in Prairie Home, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,435 per year, or $17 per hour.

Clinical Lab Assistant II

MU Health

Columbia, MO • On-site

$20.58 - $32.49/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


University Of Missouri Health Care rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 895 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Shift: Monday-Friday 4am - 8am (Holiday & weekend rotation)
Department: Labs - University Hospital Blood Draw
Compensation:
Base Pay Range: $20.58 - $32.49 per hour, based on experience
ABOUT THE JOB
MU Health Care is looking for a Clinical Laboratory Assistant II who embodies precision, collaboration, and dedication to quality healthcare. You'll play a crucial role in our team, ensuring the seamless collection, processing, and distribution of samples for analysis. Ideal candidates will thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance. As a valued member of our healthcare community, you'll contribute to our mission of delivering outstanding patient care while fostering positive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders. Join us in making a difference every day at MU Health Care.
ABOUT MU HEALTH CARE
At MU Health Care, we have an inspired, hard-working and collaborative environment driven by our mission to save and improve lives. We believe anything is possible and rally around solutions. We celebrate innovation and offer opportunities to be a part of something bigger - to have a voice and role in the work that is serving our community and changing the field of medicine.
Our academic health system - the only in mid-Missouri - is home to multiple hospitals, including the region's only Level 1 Trauma Center and region's only Children's Hospital as well as over 90 specialty clinics. Here, you can define your career among our many clinical and nonclinical positions - with growth, opportunity and support every step of the way.
Learn more about MU Health Care.
Learn more about living in mid-Missouri.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
• Health, vision and dental insurance coverage starting day one
• Generous paid leave and paid time off, including nine holidays
• Multiple retirement options, including 100% matching up to 8% and full vesting in three years
• Tuition assistance for employees (75%) and immediate family members (50%)
• Discounts on cell phone plans, rental cars, gyms, hotels and more
• See a comprehensive list of benefits here.
DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION
Follow all established specimen collection, labeling, transportation, and
handling procedures. Adhere to CAP, CLIA, and DNV standards.
Perform venipuncture, capillary collections, urine, and other body fluid
collection types, utilizing the proper supplies and equipment.
Contribute positively to department quality measures and goals.
Process and deliver specimens to the appropriate location. Prepare and package samples for shipment to the reference laboratory.
Order the requested test in the laboratory computer system, back order the test as needed, and acquire appropriate ICD-10 codes. Assist health care providers with ordering and utilizing the resources available.
Manage communication with a variety of stakeholders in and outside the hospital setting. Serve as a resource for new staff.
Perform waived testing according to the procedure. Perform and document quality control results as needed.
Ability to take call as assigned, provide weekend and holiday shift coverage, and assist with staffing multiple laboratory sites as needed.
May complete unit/department specific duties and expectations as outlined in department documents.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities can be acquired.
Either:
--Six (6) months of laboratory experience in one of the following areas:
phlebotomy, processing specimens, laboratory aide, or completion of comparable medical training program; or
--60 college equivalent hours including 24 chemistry hours or 24 science hours (6 chemistry, 6 biology, and 12 additional combination of: chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Some college coursework in a science related field.
Chauffeur driver license; class E or higher for Missouri residents.
Additional license/certification requirements as determined by the hiring
department.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met with or without reasonable accommodation. The performance of these physical demands is an essential function of the job. The employee may be required ambulate, remain in a stationary position, and position self to reach and/or move objects above the shoulders and below the knees. The employee may be required to move objects up to 10 lbs.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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