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Lab Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$16.60/hr

Lab Assistant I - Marlborough, MA, Monday to Friday, 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, with rotational weekends Pay range: $19.20 - $21.47 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for ...

Quest Diagnostics

Prep Lab Assistant

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$21.09/hr

Prep Lab Assistant - Marlborough, MA (Evening Shift) Tuesday - Saturday 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM Department: Special Chemistry Pay range: $21.09 - $23.09 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$16.60/hr

Lab Assistant I - Marlborough, MA, Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM Pre-Analytical Assistant I is responsible for general support functions within the Technical Operations Department. Pay ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$16.60/hr

Lab Assistant I - Marlborough, MA, Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM Pre-Analytical Assistant I is responsible for general support functions within the Technical Operations Department. Pay ...

Massgeneralbrigham

Lab Assistant Generalist

Boston, MA · On-site

$18.99 - $28.21/hr

No Licenses and Credentials Medical Laboratory Assistant [MLA(ASCP)] - American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC) preferred Experience Experience in a hospital ...

Teradyne

Engineering Lab Assistant

Reading, MA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Opportunity Overview We are looking for an Engineering Lab Assistant to integrate with our mechanical engineering design teams and machine shop. Responsibilities include working with the engineers to:

Massgeneralbrigham

Histology Lab Assistant

Boston, MA

$18.58 - $26.58/hr

Site: The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc. Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts ...

Emerson Hospital

Clinical Lab Assistant

Concord, MA · On-site

Position Summary Under the direction of the Pathology/Cytology Supervisor and Director of Laboratory Services, the Clinical Laboratory Assistant provides essential support to the Pathology and ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant I Lab

Boston, MA · On-site

The Kruse lab in the Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at Harvard Medical School seeks a Research Assistant to perform routine laboratory experiments, including molecular ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant I Lab

Boston, MA · On-site

We invite applicants for a Research Assistant position in the Brugge lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. The Brugge lab has identified populations of breast epithelial cells that ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant I Lab

Boston, MA · On-site

$52/hr

We invite applicants for a Research Assistant position in the Brugge lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. The Brugge lab has identified populations of breast epithelial cells that ...

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All JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA

Lab Assistant information

See Boston, MA salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Boston, MA is $22.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $25.05 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Boston, MA? For Lab Assistant jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,752 per year, or $22 per hour.
Lab Assistant I

Lab Assistant I

Quest Diagnostics

Marlborough, MA • On-site

$16.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description


Lab Assistant I - Marlborough, MA, Monday to Friday, 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, with rotational weekends
Pay range: $19.20 - $21.47 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Pre-Analytical Assistant I is responsible for general support functions within the Technical Operations Department.
Responsibilities
  • Demonstrates an ability to learn the job duties assigned to the Pre-Analytical Assistant I, and develops an understanding of how all the functions in Tech Ops and Specimen Processing work together and how they impact Technical departments and result quality.
  • Identifies problems with specimen types, missing information, etc., with regard to sorting, racking, centrifuging, delivery, and storage of specimens; is able to resolve or forward information in support of timely problem resolution.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of compliance policies related to test ordering, which requires developing ability to research test order information on translation tables, computer systems, and the directory of services.
  • Meets quality and production standards within 6 months of completing training.
  • Completes all required written documentation such that it is understandable to others, legible and within the assigned time frame.
  • Reports to work on time, and follows attendance guidelines; supports the department's performance in the event of coworker absences.
  • Learns additional functions within Tech Ops and Specimen Processing to allow timely progression to the next level.
  • Performs other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.

Qualifications
"
Preferred Work Experience:
Previous experience in a production environment
Knowledge:
Medical background preferred which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory.
Skills:
Minimal data entry skills
Education
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Required)

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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