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Lab Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Decatur, AL

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

The Lab Technician follows all policies and procedures to ensure that performed work exceeds the requirements ofGood Laboratory Practicesand to maintain the positive image of a reliable and efficient ...

Lab Technician

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

The Lab Technician follows all policies and procedures to ensure that performed work exceeds the requirements of "Good Laboratory Practices" and to maintain the positive image of a reliable and ...

Lab Technician

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

The Lab Technician follows all policies and procedures to ensure that performed work exceeds the requirements of "Good Laboratory Practices" and to maintain the positive image of a reliable and ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Decatur, AL is $18.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $21.63 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.

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 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 Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Decatur, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,479 per year, or $19 per hour.
Natural Science Lab Assistant

Natural Science Lab Assistant

Alabama Community College System

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : CCC - Huntsville - 102-B Wynn Drive, Huntsville, AL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 07963
College/Division: CCC-207000-Science
Opening Date: 06/15/2026
Closing Date: 6/29/2026 4:00 PM Central
Campus Location: Calhoun Community College
Position Summary
Prepare and administer laboratory assignments which provide practical experiences for students.
Salary: Appropriate placement on E2, Grade 3: $45,220 - $62,710
(Salary placement within this range is determined by your documented years of full-time related work experience)
Work Hours: Monday through Thursday, 7:45 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.; Friday 7:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications and must submit a complete application packet to be considered. A complete application consists of the following:
  • Online application
  • Current rรฉsumรฉ
  • Copy of college transcripts (Transcript of college work verifying degree requirement; must include degree awarded and date confirmed. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted before the deadline, but official transcripts must be received if employed.)
Application materials must provide documentation that the applicant meets all minimum qualifications.
Applicants must provide information from previous employers documenting full-time related work experience if an offer is made.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Prepare materials and assemble, disassemble, clean and store equipment needed for individual and group laboratory experiments in freshman and sophomore-level biology and chemistry labs.
  2. Schedule preparation of lab experiments.
  3. Store and dispose of hazardous wastes using safety procedures.
  4. Assist in informing faculty and staff of proper hazardous waste disposal procedures
  5. Maintain Material Safety Data Sheets in an organized, accessible fashion.
  6. Enforce lab safety codes in all science lab areas to assure student and employee safety.
  7. Communicate with science faculty regarding special needs and maintenance of laboratory facilities.
  8. Maintain inventory system of all science supplies and special equipment.
  9. Coordinate purchasing of all science supplies and special equipment with department chair.
  10. Make appropriate recommendations for cost effective utilization of allocated resources.
  11. Maintain a reference library of scientific catalogs, instruction manuals, keys, troubleshooting guides, and operation and parts manuals for laboratory equipment and models as requested.
  12. Work with full-time and part-time lab assistant(s) to coordinate shared responsibilities in both the biology and chemistry labs.
  13. Perform assigned responsibilities, duties, and tasks according to established practices, procedures, techniques, and standards in a safe manner and with minimal supervision.
  14. Become familiar with and follow institutional policies and procedures as outlined in the College Catalog, Personnel Handbook, and Alabama Community College System Policy Manual.
  15. Perform all duties with professionalism.
  16. Perform related work as assigned.
  17. Perform other appropriate professional duties and responsibilities as may be assigned.

Qualifications
A minimum of an Associate degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field from an accredited institution is required.
Preference will be given to candidates who can demonstrate through their experiences and accomplishments:
  1. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  2. Competency in the use of current educational technologies in a laboratory setting.
  3. Experience making solutions for biology and/or chemistry procedures, including those used in microbiology.
  4. Willingness to work directly with students in a lab setting.
  5. Sensitivity and commitment to cultural diversity.
  6. Ability to work with minimal supervision/ work independently.
  7. Effective organizational skills.
  8. Ability to operate in a professional manner at all times.
  9. A commitment to all students. including those of diverse ages. cultures. genders. and ethnic backgrounds.
  10. Documented successful work experience in an instructional laboratory setting and/or teaching experience in a scientific discipline.
  11. Ability to provide assistance to individuals and groups in problem solving for biology and chemistry.
  12. Competency in the use of current educational technologies.
  13. A knowledge of safety precautions in first aid.
  14. Ability to operate in high pressure situations and respond to issues in a calm manner.
  15. Conscientious- care about how work is done and wanting to do a good job.
  16. Initiative- respond to downtime by taking responsibility to do other work.
  17. A focus on detail.
  18. A focus on being friendly and patient in responding to student needs.
  19. Willingness and desire to learn new things and apply that learning.
  20. Willingness to maintain flexibility in order to meet student needs.
  21. A positive attitude regardless of circumstances at hand.
  22. Confidence in decision making and communication skills.
  23. Willingness to enthusiastically learn all/most aspects of the operation.
  24. An understanding of and commitment to the philosophy and mission of a community college.

Application Procedures/Additional Information
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications as indicated on this vacancy notice and must submit a completed application packet in order to be considered for this position. Complete application files must be received no later than the application deadline. Applicants who fail to submit all required information will be disqualified. Only applications received during the period of this announcement will be considered. Applicants must travel at their own expense. Finalist will be required to provide official transcripts that are mailed directly to the Office of Human Resources at Calhoun Community College from the institution(s) granting the credits. More than one position in the same job classification may be filled from the applicants for this position should another vacancy occur during the search process.
BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT:
In accordance with Alabama Community College System Policy and guidelines, the applicant chosen for employment will be required to sign a consent form. Employment will be contingent upon the receipt of a clearance notification from the criminal background check.
Calhoun Community College is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the Alabama Community College System, including all post secondary community and technical colleges under the control of the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees, that no employee or applicant for employment or promotion, on the basis of any impermissible criterion or characteristic including, without limitation, race, color, national origin, religion, marital status, disability, sex, age, or any other protected class as defined by federal and state law, shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program, activity, or employment. Calhoun Community College will make reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled applicants or employees. The college reserves the right to withdraw this job announcement at any time prior to the awarding. Calhoun Community College participates in the E-Verify system to verify employment eligibility for all newly-hired employees.
Calhoun Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Calhoun Community College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website (www.sacscoc.org). Specific questions regarding Calhoun's educational programs, admissions, and other matters related specifically to the College should be forwarded directly to the college.
APPLICATIONS MAY BE FILED ONLINE AT:
http://www.calhoun.edu
P.O. Box 2216
Decatur, AL 35609
256-306-2590
256-306-2591
Sick Leave
All regular full-time non-instructional staff earns one day of sick leave which is the equivalent of 8 hours of sick leave per month. Unused sick leave is rolled over to the following year. Upon retirement, employees are allowed to convert unused sick time into service time for the purpose of retirement. Further retirement benefits may be found on this page under Alabama Teacher's Retirement.
8 hours per month
(may accumulate an unlimited number)
Annual Leave
All regular full-time non-instructional staff earn annual leave per month. A complete description of leave benefits can be found with the Human Resources office.
0-4 years 8 hours per month
5-9 years 10 hours per month
10-14 years 12 hours per month
15-19 years 14 hours per month
20+ 16 hours per month
(may accumulate up to 480 hours)
Personal Leave
All regular full-time non-instructional staff earns up to two (2) regularly scheduled workdays of personal leave per leave year.
Unused Personal Leave converts to sick leave if not used.
(converts to sick leave at the end of August each year if not used)
Professional Leave
Up to 10 days a year of professional development leave with pay may be granted by the President.
Holidays
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King/Robert E. Lee Birthday
National Memorial Day
Juneteenth
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veterans Day
Thanksgiving Day
Day after Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Eve
Christmas Day
16 (5 locally assigned)
Contracted Work Days
260
Retirement
The TRS was established in 1939 to provide benefits to qualified persons employed by state-supported educational institutions. Responsibility for the management and administration of the TRS is vested in its Board of Control. The Boards of Control elect the Secretary-Treasurer who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the RSA and is responsible for the day-to-day management of the RSA. The TRS is a defined benefit plan qualified under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. For more information visit All regular full-time and part-time employees (non-temporary and non- student) who work at least 20 hours per week are required to participate in The Teachers' Retirement System of Alabama.
Tier I - Pays 7.50% monthly. State matches 14.57% (effective 10/01/25)
Tier II - Pays 6.20% monthly. State matches 13.61% (effective 10/01/25)
Law Enforcement Officers:
Tier I-Pays 8.50% monthly. State matches 14.57% (effective 10/01/25)
Tier II- Pays 7.20% monthly. State matches 13.61% (effective 10/01/25)
Health Insurance
PEEHIP, established in 1983, provides health insurance benefits for active and retired education employees and is governed by the PEEHIP Board of Control. The Boards of Control elect the Secretary-Treasurer who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the RSA and is responsible for the day-to-day management of the RSA. For more information visit
Premium amounts:
  • Single $ 30
  • Family (without Spouse but with dependents) $ 207
  • Employee + Spouse (no dependents) $ 282
  • Family (with Spouse and dependents*) $ 307
*Includes $100 per month spousal surcharge Note: The spousal surcharge does not apply to spouses who are independently eligible for PEEHIP.
Tobacco Usage Premium
  • Member $ 50
  • Spouse $ 50
The tobacco premium applies only to the PEEHIP Hospital Medical and VIVA Health plans. Refer to the section to learn how you and/or your spouse can receive the non-tobacco user discount.
Wellness Premium
  • Member $ 50
  • Spouse $ 50
The wellness premium applies only to the Blue Cross Blue Shield Hospital Medical Group #14000 plan for non-Medicare eligible active and retired members, non-Medicare-eligible members on LOA or COBRA, and non-Medicare-eligible spouses on active or retired contracts. Refer to the section to learn how you and/or your spouse can receive a wellness premium waiver.
If desired, the employee may elect four options rather than health insurance options to include hospital indemnity, cancer, dental, and vision.
Optional Coverage Plan Premiums
  • Cancer, Indemnity, and Vision Single or Family (cost per plan) $ 38
  • Dental Single $ 38 Dental Family $ 50
Institution matches $800 monthly (effective 10/01/17).
Duty Hours
(hours vary by campus and needs of the student)
Tuition Assistance
This tuition waiver program is designed for all full-time instructional and non-instructional employees of The Alabama College System and the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education and their dependents as defined under by policy. The program will be coordinated by each institution for employees within The Alabama College System and the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education. An application form for the tuition assistance program is available in the Human Resources office and should be completed prior to registration for classes.
Employees/Dependents at two-year colleges:
  • 1/3 waived after 1st year
  • 2/3 waived after 2nd year
  • 3/3 waived after 3rd year
Note: Employee is vested after 10 years in Retirement System. Additional information regarding retirement may be obtained from the Retirement System Web site at www.rsa.al.gov.