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Lab Assistant Jobs in Bridgeton, MO (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Prep Lab Assistant

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.20/hr

Prep Lab Assistant - Maryland Heights, MO, Monday to Friday, 11:30 PM to 8:00 AM, with rotational weekends Department: Microbiology Position provides a wide variety of support for assigned lab ...

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Bridgeton, MO is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $21.92 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.
More about Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Bridgeton, MO?

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

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

What cities near Bridgeton, MO are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Bridgeton, MO with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Bridgeton, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,014 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Prep Lab Assistant

Quest Diagnostics

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$17.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description


Prep Lab Assistant - Maryland Heights, MO, Monday to Friday, 11:30 PM to 8:00 AM, with rotational weekends
Department: Microbiology
Position provides a wide variety of support for assigned lab department.
Pay range: $17.20+ per 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!

Responsibilities
  • Picks up samples from accessioning and sorts samples into appropriate racks.
  • Answers phone and directs calls appropriately
  • Unpacks and stores reagents and supplies
  • Inventories and orders warehouse supply items
  • Sorts samples and distributes them to the appropriate setup hood. Manages specimen library within established time frames.
  • Decontaminates work areas as designated.
  • Performs waived tests under supervision
  • Seeks specimens as needed
  • Maintains work area in clean and organized condition.
  • Follows all PPE requirements.
  • Maintains designated laboratory equipment.
  • Performs QA/QC duties as assigned (eyewash checks, temperature readings etc...)
  • Loads urines onto Atlas for urinalysis.
  • Resolves unverified pending list for occult bloods and urinalysis.
  • Inoculates appropriate microbiology media based on site given.
  • Prepares samples for processing i.e. tissue grinders, centrifuging.
  • Credits unacceptable / duplicate test requests, knows what sites and specimens are acceptable for testing.
  • Places anaerobic culture plates in appropriate bags.
  • Loads blood bottles into Bactec machine.
  • Prints and separates worksheets.
  • Puts culture plates in incubators.
  • Prepares concentrates and trichrome slides for ova and parasites.
  • Prepares samples for DNA probes.
  • Prepares malaria smears.
  • Prepares tubes for Giardia antigens and cryptosporidium EIA.
  • Performs and finalizes occult blood results.
  • Uses various laboratory computer systems for labeling, inquiry, crediting, and resulting as needed. 28. Disposes of biohazardous and chemical waste.
  • Completes PAL forms appropriately.
  • Provides input regarding procedures, training manual, and checklists.
  • Assists with department quality and process improvement projects.
  • Sets up media and supplies for assigned work area.
  • Completes training checklists and competency testing appropriately.
  • Discards specimens weekly.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Physical and Mental Requirements:
Ability to stand for long periods of time
Skills:
  • Accurate worker, detail-oriented
  • Flexible with respect to department scheduling needs.
  • Flexible to work in other departments as needed.

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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