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Lab Assistant Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Assistant information

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Charleston, SC is $19.23, 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 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.

Is it hard to become a lab assistant?

Becoming a lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with some knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in relevant fields, and strong attention to detail and organizational skills are important for success in the role.

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 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 an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with safety protocols are important. Certification in laboratory safety or related areas can be beneficial but is not always required.

What are the duties of a lab assistant?

A lab assistant is responsible for preparing laboratory equipment and samples, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, and assisting scientists or technicians with experiments and data collection. They may also handle inventory management, record keeping, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Proficiency with lab tools and attention to detail are essential for this role.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

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 supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

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.

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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC 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 49% Temporary, and 51% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,997 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant

HCA Healthcare Trident Hospital

North Charleston, SC โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Introduction

Are you passionate about the patient experience? At HCA Healthcare, we are committed to caring for patients with purpose and integrity. We care like family! Jump-start your career as a Laboratory Assistant today with HCA Healthcare Trident Hospital.

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 medical coverage that covers many common services at no cost or for a low copay. Plans include prescription drug and behavioral health coverage as well as free telemedicine services and free AirMed medical transportation.
  • Additional options for dental and vision benefits, life and disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, supplemental health protection plans (accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity), auto and home insurance, identity theft protection, legal counseling, long-term care coverage, moving assistance, pet insurance and more.
  • Free counseling services and resources for emotional, physical and financial wellbeing
  • 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service)
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 10% off HCA Healthcare stock
  • Family support through fertility and family building benefits with Progyny and adoption assistance.
  • Referral services for child, elder and pet care, home and auto repair, event planning and more
  • Consumer discounts through Abenity and Consumer Discounts
  • Retirement readiness, rollover assistance services and preferred banking partnerships
  • Education assistance (tuition, student loan, certification support, dependent scholarships)
  • Colleague recognition program
  • Time Away From Work Program (paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence)
  • Employee Health Assistance Fund that offers free employee-only coverage to full-time and part-time colleagues based on income.

Learn more about Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

Come join our team as a Laboratory Assistant. We care for our community! Just last year, HCA Healthcare and our colleagues donated $13.8 million dollars to charitable organizations. Apply Today!

This position is for PRN, as needed. 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. 


  Trident Health is a 445-bed HCA Healthcare hospital system comprised of two acute care hospitals, Trident Medical Center and Summerville Medical Center and three freestanding emergency departments, Brighton Park Emergency, Moncks Corner Medical Center and Centre Pointe Emergency.

We provide care to nearly 375,000 South Carolina Low country residents each year. Every day Trident Health's more than 2,600 employees, more than 500 physicians and more than 130 volunteers are dedicated to fulfilling our mission.


"The great hospitals will always put the patient and the patient's family first, and the really great institutions will provide care with warmth, compassion, and dignity for the individual."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.
HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

If you are looking for an opportunity that provides satisfaction and personal growth, we encourage you to apply for our Laboratory Assistant opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. Unlock the possibilities and apply today!

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.