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Lab Assistant Jobs in Charlottesville, VA (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 15, 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 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.

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 51% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,779 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Phlebotomist-Clinical Lab Assistant

Sentara Healthcare

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Sentara Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 412 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

530th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

City/State
Charlottesville, VA
Work Shift
First (Days)
Overview:
Sentara Health is hiring a Phlebotomist - Clinical Lab Assistant to work part time days in the central testing department in Charlottesville, VA.
Locations:
  • Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital
  • Sentara Martha Jefferson Outpatient Care Center

Overview
As a phlebotomist-clinical lab assistant the duties are to perform patient phlebotomy while maintaining the highest level of customer service. Collects, labels, and processes patient specimens for testing. Responsible for registration and test data entry. Monitors supply levels.
Education
  • High School Grad or Equivalent (required)
  • Phlebotomy course (preferred)

Certification/Licensure
  • Phlebotomy certification (Preferred)
  • BLS required within 90 days of hire

Experience
  • 1 year of experience (preferred)

Keyword: laboratory services; phlebotomy, Talroo-Allied Health, phlebotomist
Benefits: Caring For Your Family and Your Career
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Adoption, Fertility and Surrogacy Reimbursement up to 10,000
• Paid Time Off and Sick Leave
• Paid Parental & Family Caregiver Leave
• Emergency Backup Care
• Long-Term, Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans
• Life Insurance
• 401k/403B with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance - 5,250/year and discounted educational opportunities through Guild Education
• Student Debt Pay Down - 10,000
• Reimbursement for certifications and free access to complete CEUs and professional development
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Colleagues may have the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus if established system and employee eligibility criteria is met
Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, located in Charlottesville, VA, is a Magnet status, 176-bed facility featuring all patient-friendly private rooms. Since its founding more than 100 years ago, Sentara Martha Jefferson has constantly evolved to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the patients who trust us with their care.
Today, our vision is as clear as it was to our founders. We will continue to set the standard for clinical quality and personalized healthcare services. Our hospital offers specialized care in Cancer Care, Heart and Vascular, Neurology and Neurosurgery (including a Primary Stroke Center), Orthopedics, and Maternity.
Sentara Health is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself on the diversity and inclusiveness of its close to an almost 30,000-member workforce. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging is a guiding principle of the organization to ensure its workforce reflects the communities it serves.
In support of our mission "to improve health every day," this is a tobacco-free environment.
For positions that are available as remote work, Sentara Health employs associates in the following states:
Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

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