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Lab Assistant Jobs in Chester, VA (NOW HIRING)

Nights (United States of America) Night shift PRN St Mary's Hospital 5801 Bremo Rd, Richmond, VA 23226 Summary of Primary Function/General Purpose of Position The Lab Tech Assistant prepares ...

Laboratory Asst II PRN

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.02 - $22.43/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... Asst II PRN opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be ...

Laboratory Asst II PRN

Tuckahoe, VA · On-site

$16.02 - $22.43/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... Asst II PRN opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be ...

Laboratory Assistant PRN

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$16.02 - $22.43/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... Assistant PRN opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be ...

Laboratory Assistant PRN

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.02 - $22.43/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... Assistant PRN opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be ...

Laboratory Assistant II

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.02 - $22.43/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... Assistant opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be ...

Laboratory Assistant PRN

Tuckahoe, VA · On-site

$16.02 - $22.43/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... Assistant PRN opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be ...

Laboratory Assistant II

Tuckahoe, VA · On-site

$16.02 - $22.43/hr

Knows, understands, and puts into practice general lab policies/procedures as well as department ... Assistant opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Chester, VA salary details

$9

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$27

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Chester, VA is $18.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.25 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.

What are lab assistants?

Lab assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or instructors by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting routine experiments, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. They may also be responsible for recording data, managing supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Lab assistants work in various settings, including educational institutions, research facilities, hospitals, and private laboratories.

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced lab assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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?

Lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures or safety. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some roles may also require familiarity with specific tools or software used in labs.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, 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.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, or extensive experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level lab assistant 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.

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Chester, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Chester, VA are:
What cities near Chester, VA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Chester, VA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Chester, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,753 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
SE Sculpture Lab Assistant

SE Sculpture Lab Assistant

University of Richmond

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


University Of Richmond rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

362nd of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Sculpture Lab Assistant

Assist the faculty, staff, and students in the use and upkeep of the Sculpture lab spaces. This is a safety monitoring position; lab assistants do not give instruction on the use of machines in lab spaces.

Monitor open shop hours on a schedule.

Help maintain the cleanliness of the space.

Monitor the space and oversee correct machine use procedures.

Help build small items, or process materials for Lab spaces.

Ability to work without direct supervision.

Restock and dispose of supplies as needed.

No prior skills necessary.

Shop experience and ability to use machinery like a table saw, welder, or laser cutter is a plus but not a requirement.

Interest in making and learning new craft skills. Shop technician will teach lab assistants how to use machinery and specific processes including but not limited to woodworking, metalworking, and digital fabrication


What University Of Richmond employees say

Pay

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Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About University of Richmond

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Richmond is a private university located just a short drive from downtown Richmond, Virginia. Through its five schools and wide array of campus programming, the University combines the best qualities of a small liberal arts college and a large university. With nearly 4,000 students, an 8:1 student-faculty ratio, and more than 90% of traditional undergraduate students living on campus, the University is remarkably student-centered, focused on preparing students "to live lives of purpose, thoughtful inquiry, and responsible leadership in a global and pluralistic society."

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, VA, US

Year founded

1830