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Lab Assistant Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

LAB TECH

Moncks Corner, SC · On-site

$33.35 - $41.65/hr

Maintains documentation for compliance audits and participates in lab certification audits. * Prepares required compliance reports, such as the Monthly Operating Report. * Submits reports for review ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Assistant information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Charleston, SC is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $21.59 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 Charleston, SC?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC?

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

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,410 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant

HCA Healthcare Trident Hospital

North Charleston, SC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


HCA Healthcare rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 2,308 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

614th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Do you want to join an organization that invests in you as a(an) Laboratory Assistant? At HCA Healthcare Trident Hospital, you come first. HCA Healthcare has committed up to $300 million in programs to support our incredible team members over the course of three years.

Job Summary and Qualifications

Assists in the technical and clerical aspects of the Laboratory department. Manages collection, acceptance, receipt and processing of all specimens into the Laboratory department(s). Attend to samples received through pneumatic tube stations. Performs specimen collection (i.e. venipuncture, capillary puncture). Complete computerized registration of patient samples using Laboratory Information System (LIS). Performs waived testing as trained. Processes samples to be sent to reference laboratories for test completion following specific guidelines for packaging and shipment as outlined by each recipient. Process microbiological samples for culture applying sample to appropriate medium and placing in appropriate temperature controlled environment. Assist technical staff by organizing and preparing samples for testing, such as centrifugation, preparation of smears for staining, and placing samples on analyzers for testing that do not require programming. Prepare samples for long term storage after testing is complete. Contact external facilities to report stat and critical results. Complete basic quality control steps (i.e. sterility testing, new lot qualification). Perform reagent and disposable inventory management tasks. Assemble requested supplies for specimen collection at external facilities.

What qualifications you will need:

Familiarity with a hospital laboratory is desired.

Medical terminology preferred. 

Benefits

HCA Healthcare Trident Hospital, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include:

  • Comprehensive benefits for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health and telemedicine services
  • Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services
  • Time away from work programs for paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence
  • Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships, retirement readiness tools, rollover support and financial wellbeing counseling
  • Education support through tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing
  • Additional benefits for fertility and family building, adoption assistance, life insurance, supplemental health protection plans, auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection and consumer discounts

Learn more about Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

Trident Medical Center – Facility Overview

Founded in 1975, Trident Medical Center has been serving patients and families throughout Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester Counties for 50 years. As a 320+ bed Level II Trauma Center, Trident provides comprehensive healthcare services, advanced specialty care, and 24/7 emergency treatment, earning recognition as the #1 Trauma Center in the Lowcountry.

Key Highlights

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  • Award-winning Heart Center
  • Home to the South Carolina Institute for Robotic Surgery
  • Comprehensive breast health services through the Trident Breast Care Center
  • Features the Joseph M. Still Burn Clinic, the region’s only outpatient burn clinic for patients of all ages
  • Provides 24/7 Hospitalist and Intensivist coverage
  • Healthgrades Five-Star recipient for cardiovascular care, neurosciences, critical care, and patient safety outcomes

Expanded Emergency Access
In addition to emergency departments at Trident Medical Center and Summerville Medical Center, the health system operates four freestanding emergency rooms (FSERs) offering 24/7 emergency care:

  • Brighton Park Emergency (Summerville)
  • Centre Pointe Emergency (North Charleston)
  • James Island Emergency (Charleston)
  • Moncks Corner Medical Center (Berkeley County)
  • Long Point Free Standing ED coming soon!

Together, these facilities provide convenient, around-the-clock access to emergency services across the greater Charleston region.


"Good people beget good people."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.
HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

We are a family 270,000 dedicated professionals! Our Talent Acquisition team is reviewing applications for our Laboratory Assistant opening. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. Submit your resume today to join our community of caring!

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.


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