ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Assistant Jobs in Charlottesville, VA (NOW HIRING)

ECS Ltd

Assistant Lab Manager

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Responsibilities ECS Limited is offering a unique opportunity for a talented and certified Assistant Lab Manager to join our Charlottesville team. We offer opportunities for professional development ...

ECS Ltd

Assistant Lab Manager

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Responsibilities ECS Limited is offering a unique opportunity for a talented and certified Assistant Lab Manager to join our Charlottesvilleteam. We offer opportunities for professional development ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Charlottesville, VA

Lab Assistant information

See Charlottesville, VA salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Charlottesville, VA is $20.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.88 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 Charlottesville, VA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Charlottesville, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Charlottesville, VA?

For Lab Assistant jobs in Charlottesville, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Charlottesville, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Charlottesville, VA are:

What cities near Charlottesville, VA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Charlottesville, VA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Charlottesville, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,779 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Senior Lab Research Assistant

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$38K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 630 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Sonoda Lab in the Department of Biology at the University of Virginia's College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences is seeking applications for a full-time Senior Lab Research Assistant. The Sonoda Lab studies information processing and plasticity in the rodent visual system using a combination of optogenetics, electrophysiology, imaging, and behavioral assays. The position will play an important role in supporting the launch and day-to-day operation of a new research laboratory. This position will include both general laboratory support and hands-on involvement in research projects examining how visual information is processed by neural circuits in the retina, thalamus, and cortex. More information about the lab can be found at www.sonodalab.com .
This position will provide technical and operational support for establishing and maintaining an active research program in the Department of Biology. The Senior Lab Research Assistant will help ensure that routine laboratory operations and animal colonies run efficiently while also directly contributing to experiments that will increase our understanding of how the brain works.
The individual will initially work under close supervision and receive training in laboratory procedures and research techniques. As experience is gained and demonstrate proficiency, they will be expected to work increasingly independently in routine laboratory operations, mouse colony management, and established experimental procedures.
The Senior Laboratory Research Assistant will be expected to perform the following duties:
  • Assist with ordering, inventory, and basic budget tracking
  • Support mouse colony management
  • Assist with animal procedures, including microinjections into the mouse eye and brain
  • Assist with in vivo electrophysiological recordings
  • Support lab members with data collection, organization, and analysis

Minimum Requirements:
  • Education: Associate's degree required; may accept equivalent combination of experience, education, certification in lieu of degree.
  • Experience: 2+ years of lab experience which may include student experience.

Preferred knowledge, skills, abilities:
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills
  • Background in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical engineering, or related field
  • Basic laboratory experience, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow established protocols and maintain accurate records.
  • Prior experience working with rodents, neuroscience techniques, electrophysiology, imaging, behavioral assays, programming, or data analysis would be beneficial but is not required.
  • Experience with functional measurements of nervous system function (i.e. electrophysiology, imaging, behavior
  • Because the position involves both laboratory operations and hands-on research, the ideal candidate should be comfortable balancing multiple responsibilities and working both independently and collaboratively.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $18.56 to $23.20/hour ($38,604.80 - $48,256 annually), commensurate with education and experience.
Physical Demands: This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. Also requires keyboarding and other bench work and animal procedures requiring finer finger manipulation.
Position Type & Work Location:
  • This is a full-time non-exempt benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits .
  • This position is a restricted position and is dependent upon project need, availability of funding and performance.
  • This position will not sponsor applicants for work visas.
  • The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
  • This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .
Application Process:
Please apply online , and search for R0086933. Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website . Complete an application online with the following documents:
  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter (optional)

Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission. Applications that do not contain all the required documents will not receive full consideration.
References will be completed via UVA's standardized process SkillSurvey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three are required.
For information regarding the position or the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter, js9rk@virginia.edu.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

What University Of Virginia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

University of Virginia logo

About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

View All University of Virginia Jobs

Apply