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Lab Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Brown University

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The secondary duties will entail providing technical support for the lab's research in human ... Research Assistant Department: Department of Neuroscience Grade: Grade 7 Worker Type: Employee ...

Brown University

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The lab of Dr. Sendurai Mani is dedicated to investigating the biology of Epithelial-Mesenchymal ... Research Assistant Department: Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Grade: Grade 7 ...

NIC Johnston LLC

Dental Assistant

Johnston, RI

$24 - $30/hr

Nuvia Dental Implant Center is rapidly expanding and looking for enthusiastic Dental Assistants to ... Meet lab deadlines: Work efficiently and strategically to meet tight deadlines, ensuring patients ...

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All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Lab Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Rhode Island is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are lab assistants?

Lab assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or instructors by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting routine experiments, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. They may also be responsible for recording data, managing supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Lab assistants work in various settings, including educational institutions, research facilities, hospitals, and private laboratories.

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced lab assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures or safety. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some roles may also require familiarity with specific tools or software used in labs.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, or extensive experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level lab assistant 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.

More about Lab Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Rhode Island are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,242 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Laboratory Testing Assistant

Laboratory Testing Assistant

Rhode Island Blood Center

Providence, RI • On-site

$17.91/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities

Position Summary:

This position is responsible for providing support in the Testing laboratory. Responsibilities include sample receiving and preparation, testing setup, quality control procedures and general support tasks.

This position reports to the Laboratory Supervisor, Testing.

Essential Functions:

Receive and prepare samples for testing Receive and store laboratory supplies Assist in sample transport throughout the laboratories Assist in Equipment Maintenance procedures

Non-Essential Functions:

Follow the policies of the Rhode Island Blood Center Maintain professional ethics concerning confidentiality of donor information Label products after lot release Generate daily reports as required. Read and follow official communications via policy memos and Laboratory Log Book. Read and have familiarity with pertinent sections of the Rhode Island Blood Center Laboratory Procedures Manual and Standard Operating Procedures. Maintain a clean and orderly working environment. Preparation of biohazardous waste for shipment, (some lifting included) Carry out all procedures in a reasonable time frame as determined by supervisory personnel. Responsible for certain programs and/or projects as may be assigned. Participate in evaluation on new equipment and techniques. Successful participation on annual competency assessment program. The previous statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of competence of work performed by people assigned to this job classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties           performed by the personnel so classified.

Qualifications

Education:

High School Diploma required.

Requirements:

Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds. Must also be able to stand for long periods and sit, stand, walk and lift alternately throughout the duration of the shift.

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and data entry skills required.

Schedule:

Full-Time: Mon. - Fri. 7am to 3:30pm; includes every other weekend and holiday.

The proposed pay rate for this position is $17.91/hr.

Overview

Founded in 1979, Rhode Island Blood Center (RIBC) has served Rhode Island and the New England area for more than 45 years, delivering more than 90,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 50+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. RIBC is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biopharmaceutical organizations. NYBCe's Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. RIBC serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit ribc.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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