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Lab Assistant 1 Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.4K - $3.2K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Travel Years of Experience:1 year(s) ACLS, ARRT R, BLS Day 1 Dental, Health, Vision insurance ... Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing ...

Travel Medical Lab Scientist

Newberg, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Travel Day 1 Dental, Health, Vision insurance. Referral bonus and extension bonus. LanceSoft Job ID ... Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing ...

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Lab Assistant 1 information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do lab assistant 1 jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant 1 in Portland, OR is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab assistant 1?

Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or educators in laboratory settings. Their responsibilities typically include preparing experiments, maintaining lab equipment, recording data, and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of the lab environment. They may also assist in analyzing samples and managing inventory. Lab Assistants play a crucial role in helping research and educational labs run efficiently. Entry-level lab assistants usually have a high school diploma or associate degree, often with coursework in science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab assistant 1, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Assistant 1, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or an associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with common lab equipment, data entry systems, and possibly certifications in laboratory safety or handling hazardous materials is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and teamwork are important soft skills that help ensure accuracy and efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining reliable lab operations, supporting scientific research, and ensuring a safe work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by lab assistant 1s and how can they be managed?

Lab Assistant 1s often face challenges such as balancing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining accuracy when handling samples, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and follow established procedures closely. Many labs provide on-the-job training and supervision, so don't hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification from senior staff when needed. Over time, developing strong attention to detail and time management skills will help you excel in this role.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant 1 vs Lab Assistant 2?

AspectLab Assistant 1Lab Assistant 2
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; additional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesSimilar environments, often with increased responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, research labsSame as Lab Assistant 1, often with more complex tasks
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Lab Assistant 1 typically performs basic laboratory tasks under supervision, while Lab Assistant 2 handles more complex procedures and may require additional experience or certifications. The roles are similar in work environment and industry usage, with Lab Assistant 2 often taking on greater responsibilities.

Can you get a lab assistant 1 job with no experience?

Lab Assistant 1 positions often require minimal prior experience and may be suitable for entry-level candidates. Employers typically look for basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols; some roles may provide on-the-job training. Certifications or coursework in relevant sciences can improve chances but are not always mandatory for this role.

How much does a lab assistant 1 get paid?

A Lab Assistant 1 typically earns between $25,000 and $35,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, with opportunities for pay increases with additional skills or certifications in laboratory procedures and safety protocols.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant 1?

To qualify as a Lab Assistant 1, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to operate laboratory equipment; relevant certifications are not usually mandatory but can be advantageous.

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant 1 jobs in Portland, OR?

For Lab Assistant 1 jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant 1 job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,661 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Specimen Processing Specialist

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

OHSU is Oregon’s only public academic health center. We are a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and southwest Washington. We are an institution of higher learning, with schools of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry and public health – and with a network of campuses and partners throughout Oregon. We are a national research hub, with thousands of scientists developing lifesaving therapies and deeper understanding. We are a statewide economic engine and Portland’s largest employer. And as a public organization, we provide services for the most vulnerable Oregonians, and outreach to improve health in communities across the state.

The purpose of this position is to provide technical support for patient care activities in the laboratory by

performing data entry, billing, client services, sample processing, resulting, filing, and laboratory procedures. The major duty is to prepare patient specimens for laboratory testing, which includes determining specimen acceptability, answering telephone inquires, and multi-tasking while working quickly and accurately. The person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude which will best serve the clients of the department, OHSU, and outside the organization.



Specimen receipt and processing

  • Loads specimens onto automation line for processing.
  • Centrifuges samples and transfers to appropriately labeled containers.
  • Accurately measures specimens, records volumes, and determines if sample quality and quantity is sufficient for testing.
  • Directs samples to technologists and testing areas either manually or using the automation lines, or stores samples for future testing.
  • Makes slides for staining.
  • Notifies technologists or appropriate lab when priority work is received.
  • Determines acceptability of specimens received and calls ward or physician to clarify orders or advise of unacceptable samples.

Performs data entry for samples received for testing

  • Checks accuracy of specimens, requisitions, labels.
  • Performs computer entry in Epic HIS system.
  • Handles and processes samples for many labs on and off campus.
  • Accurately labels samples, requisitions, and appropriate specimen containers.
  • Is responsible to see that all samples are logged in to the lab and triaged in a timely manner.

Coordinates and prepares samples to be shipped to outside labs for patient care and drug study testing

  • Enters test requests into dedicated referral lab computer.
  • Fills out paperwork carefully and thoroughly to ensure accurate testing.
  • Packs infectious shipping samples per IATA standards.
  • Utilizes electronic systems provided by referral labs to transmit orders

Other Duties as Assigned


  • High school diploma and at least two years of college lab science courses, plus one year of college math or computer courses OR

  • High school diploma and two years of clinical lab experience OR

  • High school diploma and successful completion of a Lab Assistant Training program including clinical lab experience


  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Two years in a clinical laboratory including sample receipt, sample processing, customer service, multi-line phone use.
  • Training or experience demonstrating proficiency with healthcare/lab information systems.

Positions in the laboratory and environments may require working flexible schedules including nights

weekends and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation; working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature fluctuations in building.


We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887