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Lab Assistant Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technical Assistant LAB-HISTOLOGY (BILLINGS CLINIC HOSPITAL) req12420 Shift: Varies Employment Status: Part-Time (.5 - .74) Hours per Pay Period: 0.50 = 40 hours every two weeks (Non-Exempt ...

Responsible to assist Laboratory Staff in accordance with established procedures for specimen ... lab availability. Also responds to non-routine questions regarding what steps need to be taken to ...

Lab Aide Phlebotomist | PRN

Whitefish, MT

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

This position will assist with coverage of our main Whitefish Hospital Lab and our Logan Health Whitefish Outpatient Draw Center. Logan Health Whitefish is a 25-bed critical access hospital located ...

Lab Aide Phlebotomist | PRN

Whitefish, MT ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

This position will assist with coverage of our main Whitefish Hospital Lab and our Logan Health Whitefish Outpatient Draw Center. Logan Health Whitefish is a 25-bed critical access hospital located ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Montana salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Montana is $18.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab assistant?

As a laboratory assistant or lab technician, you are responsible for helping scientists conduct experiments in a laboratory environment. You may be asked to prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment and log readings and results. Your responsibilities may also include performing basic analyses of samples and recording results accurately. Your responsibilities will vary based on the type of lab you work in, but compliance with protocols and commitment to safety and accuracy are critical in any lab.

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

To thrive as a Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and often an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and proper sample handling techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain lab safety standards, and support smooth laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by lab assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and ensuring the accuracy of data collection. To manage these effectively, it's important to stay organized, communicate proactively with supervisors and colleagues, and remain attentive to details when handling samples or preparing equipment. Many labs offer training on safety and procedures, so taking advantage of these resources can help new hires adapt quickly and perform confidently in their roles.

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

AspectLab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with sample collection, prepare specimens, maintain lab equipmentPerform complex tests, analyze samples, report results
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and research settingsPrimarily in medical diagnostics and healthcare

While both roles support laboratory operations, Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more advanced testing and require specialized education. Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support lab staff, making them entry-level positions in healthcare labs.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Pay can also vary based on full-time or part-time status and the complexity of tasks performed.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under the supervision of scientists or technicians and may need knowledge of lab procedures and basic scientific techniques.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework in science. Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important. Certifications such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Montana?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Montana are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Montana?

For Lab Assistant jobs in Montana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Montana look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Montana are:

What cities in Montana are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Montana with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,653 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Lab Technical Assistant

Billings, MT โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Youโ€™ll want to join Billings Clinic for our outstanding quality of care, exciting environment, interesting cases from a vast geography, advanced technology and educational opportunities. We are in the top 1% of hospitals internationally for receiving Magnetยฎ Recognition consecutively since 2006.

And youโ€™ll want to stay at Billings Clinic for the amazing teamwork, caring atmosphere, and a culture that values kindness, safety and courage. This is an incredible place to learn and grow. Billings, Montana, is a friendly, college community in the Rocky Mountains with great schools and abundant family activities. Amazing outdoor recreation is just minutes from home. Four seasons of sunshine!

You can make a difference here.

About Us

Billings Clinic is a community-owned, not-for-profit, Physician-led health system based in Billings with more than 4,700 employees, including over 550 physicians and non-physician providers. Our integrated organization consists of a multi-specialty group practice and a 304-bed hospital.Learn more (https://www.billingsclinic.com/about-us/) about Billings Clinic (our organization, history, mission, leadership and regional locations) and how we are recognized nationally for our exceptional quality.

Your Benefits

We provide a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to all full-time employees (minimum of 24 hours/week), including Medical, Dental, Vision, 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer matching, Defined Contribution Pension Plan, Paid Time Off, employee wellness program, and much more.Click here (https://www.billingsclinic.com/careers/employee-benefits/) for more information ordownload the 2021 Employee Benefits Guide (https://ncstoragemlbillings.blob.core.windows.net/public/2021%20Billings%20Clinic%20Staff%20Benefits%20Guide.pdf) .

Magnet: Commitment to Nursing Excellence

Billings Clinic is proud to be recognized for nursing excellence as a Magnetยฎ-designated organization, joining only 97 other organizations worldwide that have achieved this honor four times. The re-designation process happens every four years. Click here (https://www.billingsclinic.com/campaign-landing-pages/magnet/) to learn more!

Lab Technical Assistant

LAB-HISTOLOGY (BILLINGS CLINIC HOSPITAL)

req12420

Shift: Varies

Employment Status: Part-Time (.5 - .74)

Hours per Pay Period: 0.50 = 40 hours every two weeks (Non-Exempt)

Starting Wage DOE

Under general supervision, the incumbent in this position will work in one or more of the primary areas within the Laboratory Department to include Processing, Cytology, Histology, Microbiology, Blood Bank, Hematology, Chemistry and/or Inventory Control. Responsible to assist Laboratory Staff in accordance with established procedures for specimen receipt and testing. Performs laboratory duties as instructed by Laboratory Leadership. ## Additional characteristics for the Lead Role: Acts as a lead for an assigned area of department, including assisting with the day to day operations of the department, responsible for quality control and regulatory readiness of department.

Essential Job Functions

โ€ขSupports and models behaviors consistent with Billings Clinicโ€™s mission, vision, values, code of business conduct and service expectations. Meets all mandatory organizational and departmental requirements. Maintains competency in all organizational, departmental and outside agency standards as it relates to the environment, employee, patient safety or job performance.

โ€ขProcesses and accessions samples according to established policies and procedures.

โ€ขAssists with inventory management including stocking, ordering and monitoring to ensure adequate supplies to meet business needs within the assigned section of the laboratory (Cytology, Histology, Processing, Sendouts, Hematology, Microbiology, Blood Bank, etc.)

โ€ขPerforms waived laboratory testing and specimen processing within scope of practice.

โ€ขProvides administrative/clerical support for the departments including maintaining accurate record systems, requisitions, quality control data, patient results, and workflow documentation. Understands and demonstrates appropriate communication of Private Health Information.

โ€ขAssist pathologists and physicians, including collecting and transporting specimens, preparation of bone marrow specimens and/or fine needle aspiration/fine needle biopsies, preparing slides, maintaining integrity of specimens, and disposal of specimens according to procedure.

โ€ขAnswers multi-line telephones and responds to the majority of all incoming calls before transferring to alternate resources. Responds to questions from patients, physicians and other reference labs and provides routine information, collection and testing procedures, specimen processing, turn around times, result reporting and reference lab availability. Also responds to non-routine questions regarding what steps need to be taken to rectify a situation when the integrity of a sample/specimen has been compromised.

โ€ขFacilitates result reporting. Results may be called to physicianโ€™s office, faxed or mailed depending on orders and situation.

โ€ขMonitors all label printers and fax machines for incoming orders. Responsible for ensuring printers and faxes are maintained in good working order due to the critical nature of information being received. Acts as a resource in resolving printer and fax related function problems, maintenance and form loading.

โ€ขResponsible for checking and verifying the integrity/quality of the specimens to ensure appropriate specimen volumes, packaging, etc. Assumes responsibility for initiating follow-up action necessary to prevent and/or resolve problem scenarios and coordinates as appropriate with other departments, management, etc.

โ€ขCoordinates specimen mail-outs to reference laboratories. Duties include decisions regarding how to draw sample/specimen, timing of draw, appropriate preparation of the sample/specimen, timing of mailing, selecting appropriate reference lab for processing as outlined in laboratory policies and procedures and tracking and planning the appropriate transportation mode.

โ€ขMaintains inventory management including order entry in Lawson, stocking and monitoring to ensure adequate supplies to meet the business needs for all areas within the Laboratory department and reference laboratory. Uses the correct cost center and General Ledger numbers.

โ€ขDispatches and monitors the phlebotomy staff to maintain efficient response and turnaround times on hospital specimen orders.

โ€ขReceives specimens from the laboratory runners, phlebotomy staff, pneumatic tube system and external clients. Utilizes judgment to determine if sample/specimen is appropriate for testing according to established guidelines or if a redraw will be necessary. Initiates specimen preparation and processing. Utilizes appropriate equipment (i.e. track system, centrifuge), prepares spin-offs, aliquots, cassettes, blocks and slides and distributes to the appropriate area of the laboratory for final processing. Monitors printers for STAT orders from the nursing units.

โ€ขResponsible for set-up, basic maintenance and records of work stations; filling staining stations, imagers, cleaning work areas, emptying garbage, cleaning of track, checking temperatures of refrigerators and freezers, cleaning of centrifuges, monitoring courier contact points, creating cassettes, changing fluids and paraffin, etc.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

โ€ขHigh school graduate or equivalent

โ€ขAdvanced education in areas of science, chemistry and mathematics normally acquired through college level courses preferred

Experience

โ€ข Prior laboratory or health care experience preferred

โ€ข Or an equivalent combination of education and experience relating to the above, tasks, knowledge, skills or abilities will be considered

Billings Clinic is Montanaโ€™s largest health system serving Montana, Wyoming and the western Dakotas. A not-for-profit organization led by a physician CEO, the health system is governed by a board of community members, nurses and physicians. Billings Clinic includes an integrated multi-specialty group practice, tertiary care hospital and trauma center, based in Billings, Montana. Learn more atwww.billingsclinic.com/aboutus (https://www.billingsclinic.com/about-us/)

Billings Clinic is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity. All policies and processes are designed toward achieving fair and equitable treatment of all employees and job applicants. Employees are encouraged to discuss any concerns they have in this regard with their immediate supervisor and/or the Vice President People Resources. All employees and job applicants will be provided the same treatment in all aspects of the employment relationship, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, genetic information or disability.