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Lab Assistant Jobs in Colchester, VT (NOW HIRING)

Twincraft Skincare

Skincare Lab Coordinator

Williston, VT · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

The Skincare Lab Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the essential operational functions of our skincare development lab. This role is centered around maintaining seamless workflows, managing ...

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Lab Assistant information

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$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Colchester, VT is $20.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $22.98 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 Colchester, VT?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Colchester, VT are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Colchester, VT look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Colchester, VT are:

What cities near Colchester, VT are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Colchester, VT with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Colchester, VT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,972 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant / Phlebotomist, Full-Time, Primarily Day Shift

Northwestern Medical Center

Saint Albans, VT • On-site

$17.50 - $24.88/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

NMC is currently recruiting a Laboratory Assistant. The position is full-time (80 hours bi-weekly), primarily days 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., up to two weekends a month. Northwestern Medical Center's mission is to provide exceptional health care to our community. Join our high reliability team! With "people" as one of our core values, valuing our employees is a top priority for Northwestern. We care about our employees, their families, and their overall health & well-being. We are proud to offer a generous benefits package, with recognized national carriers, designed to help our people stay healthy, balance work & life responsibilities, protect your assets & plan for a secure financial future.
Hiring Range
$17.50 to $24.88 USD rate based on experience. Eligible for shift differentials
Laboratory Assistant I
JOB SUMMARY:
  • The Lab Assistant I performs three roles in the function of the Laboratory: 1) Lab customer service and charge entry, 2) phlebotomy and specimen collection, 3) order entry/specimen processing. Adheres to hospital policies and procedures including but not limited to safety, fire, disaster plans, and infection control

PRE-REQUISITES:
  • Education: High school graduate or equivalent required.
    Experience: Clerical experience in medical setting, knowledge of medical terminology, and phlebotomy experience preferred.
    Other: The Lab Assistant must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Certifications: BLS required

RELATIONSHIPS:
  • Reports To:
    • Laboratory Office Coordinator, Assistant Laboratory Manager, Laboratory Director
  • Supervises:
    • None specified
  • Other Contacts:
    • Public, physicians and their staff, other employees and computer services.

SCOPE:
  • Machinery or Equipment Used:
    • VDT and keyboard, syringes and related blood draw VDT and keyboard, syringes and related blood draw devices, carts, lab transport buckets, centrifuge, clerical office equipment (fax, copier, phone, etc.), buggies (bins/baskets on wheels).
  • Physical Demands:
    • Occasional- Physical exertion of 20-30 lbs to assist in re-positioning of inpatients for blood draw. Sitting for computer charge and order entry, tracking of supplies and making labels for specimens. Reaching in all directions to re-stock supplies in blood collection lab, sanitize patient contact areas as indicated, maintain refrigerator supplies and cleanliness and collect specimens. Stooping/bending to retrieve parts needed to collect specimen(s) and perform actual blood draw (bedside or in reclining chair). Frequent - Fine motor coordination to perform duties directly related to blood draws, such as changing tubes, for blood collection, tearing tape, compressing blood vessels, holding and guiding needles. Walking and/or standing. Frequent neck flexion and rotation while taking specimens. Constant - Use of the hands/fingers to perform phlebotomy duties, reception duties of charge and order entry. Must have good gross and fine motor dexterity and tactile sensation of the digits. Requires both red/green and blue/violet color discrimination.
  • Working Conditions:
    • Potential for exposure to blood-borne pathogens and infectious diseases. Educates and interacts with patient and family members as needed. May encounter slippery/wet floors when walking halls to patient rooms to perform inpatient draws.
  • Required Protective Equipment:
    • Lab Coat, gloves, mask, gown and booties. Routine Standard Precautions PPE as indicated by protocol.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Provides exceptional customer service to all stakeholders in a manner that supports the mission, vision and values of the Laboratory and NMC:
    • Promptly answers telephones and greets customers in a professional and courteous manner, demonstrating Studor techniques such as AIDET
    • Works collaboratively with clients to improve quality and to resolve discrepancies such as unclear orders or sample integrity issues
    • Provides guidance to client inquiries including tube selection, collection techniques, test names, and in providing information from reference laboratories.
  • Obtains specimens for testing according to policies, procedures and regulatory requirements:
    • Performs specimen collection for inpatients, outpatients, and off-site locations
    • Consistently interacts with patients and families using Studor techniques such as AIDET
    • Recognizes age specific needs of the patient and makes appropriate adjustments to ensure safety and quality of specimen collection
    • Performs proper patient and sample identification, immediately resolving any discrepancies prior to performing a procedure
    • Follows procedures to obtain quality venous and capillary specimens using appropriate venipuncture techniques including dermal puncture, vacuum tube, syringe, and butterfly venipuncture techniques. Phlebotomy is performed in a manner to minimize patient discomfort, the need for additional attempts, and the potential for bruising
    • Follows specimen collection procedures to obtain specimens from other sources including urine and swab techniques. Instructs outpatients in the proper method of obtaining special clinical specimens
    • Maintains specimen integrity by using aseptic technique and complying with applicable precaution procedures
    • Keeps collection sites organized, restocked, and disinfected throughout the shift and also prior to the next shift
    • Consistently documents relevant and required information on appropriate forms and in the computer system(s)
    • Ensures that requisition binders are maintained in a timely manner and that all orders are clear and compliant.
  • Processes specimens prior to testing, ensuring quality and adhering to established policies and procedures:
    • Uses available resources to resolve unusual test orders. Contacts the Provider or Charge Nurse to clarify any unclear orders. Refers unresolved orders back to the originator for further clarification. Consults with supervisor for additional guidance
    • Specimen and patient identity are verified and maintained throughout processing and testing
    • Performs pre-analytical specimen processing including aliquotting, transferring, or repackaging of samples for additional testing
    • Processes specimens with accuracy including demographics and tests ordered
    • Assesses and maintains sample integrity throughout processing
    • Adheres to special handling instructions and forwards to testing personnel when appropriate
    • Processes specimens and delivers to testing areas in a timely manner
    • Maintains adequate levels of supplies and keeps work area organized and disinfected
    • Recognizes potential errors or deficiencies that could compromise sample integrity and takes steps to proactively resolve.
  • Performs administrative duties to meet the needs of the laboratory department and the customers served by the laboratory:
    • Performs proper charging and filing of lab work/records
    • Assists technologists and supervisors with general administrative functions
    • Performs and documents routine Quality Maintenance, Preventative Maintenance, and Quality Assurance. Discrepancies are identified and resolved. Medical Tech II or supervisors are notified.
  • Works collaboratively with coworkers, Technologists, and other staff within department and in other departments throughout the organization:
    • Demonstrated flexibility in working all shifts including days, evenings, and swing-shifts
    • Seeks opportunities to assist others
    • Provides logistical support to technologists
    • Demonstrates willingness to assist non-laboratorians throughout the entire organization
  • Uses a variety of communication skills to meet the needs of the laboratory department and the customers served by the laboratory:
    • Communicates at shift change to ensure smooth processing transitions
    • Maintains good relations with patients, medical staff, co-workers and other contacts
    • Works collaboratively with coworkers to resolve potential conflicts
    • Keeps abreast of all procedural changes through effective use of verbal communication
    • Completes all policy/procedure updates within 30 days of posting.
  • Participates in continuing education and departmental development functions to support professional growth and departmental initiatives:
    • Participates in continuing education opportunities and acquires sufficient annual CME credits
    • Demonstrates a willingness to learn and perform new procedures
    • Willingly shares technical knowledge and experience with coworkers and customers
    • Participates in committees and workgroups
    • Demonstrates active and supportive efforts with Performance Improvement initiatives
    • Supports and participates in departmental initiatives and goals
    • Actively Participates in the teaching and training of new employees (including technologists, Lab Assistants, support staff, and staff from other departments), students, and house staff

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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About Northwestern Medical Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Northwestern Medical Center (NMC) is located in Saint Albans, VT, United States and is a vital player in the healthcare industry. This not-for-profit, primary and specialty care hospital strives to offer exceptional healthcare services to the local community. As per their website, NMC was established due to the hard work and dedication of community members driven to create a place of healing back in the 19th century. Their continued pursuit of excellence is grounded in their core values of Quality, Respect, Community, Learning, and Stewardship.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Albans, VT, US

Year founded

1883

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