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Lab Assistant Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 Inova Blood Donor Services, located in Sterling, VA, is looking ... Previous lab processing experience preferred * 6 months' experience We are Inova, Northern Virginia ...

... Assistant 1 to join the team! This role will be Part-time (3 days a week) Night Shift: Monday ... Previous lab processing experience preferred * 6 months' experience We are Inova, Northern Virginia ...

Laboratory Technician Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$17.72 - $30.06/hr

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 and Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 We are looking for dedicated Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 and Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 in the Fairfax area to ...

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 and Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 We are looking for dedicated Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 and Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 in the Fairfax area to ...

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 Inova Fair Oak Hospital is looking for a dedicated Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 to join the team! This role will be PRN (shift varies: but prefer someone ...

Lab Technician

Frederick, MD · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Complete routine review of records, such as sample chain of custody forms, processing logs, logbooks, and other documentation generated within QC Lab Support. Assist with deviation and investigation ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Assistant information

See Gaithersburg, MD salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Gaithersburg, MD is $21.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $24.95 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 postsecondary education or relevant coursework in science. Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important. Certifications in safety or specific techniques can enhance job prospects.

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 the supervision of scientists or technicians and may need knowledge of lab procedures and basic scientific techniques.

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 Gaithersburg, MD? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Gaithersburg, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Gaithersburg, MD? For Lab Assistant jobs in Gaithersburg, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Gaithersburg, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Gaithersburg, MD are:
What cities near Gaithersburg, MD are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Gaithersburg, MD with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Gaithersburg, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Temporary, and 51% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,501 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1

Inova

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 260 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1

Inova Blood Donor Services, located in Sterling, VA, is looking for a dedicated Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 to join the team! This role will be Full-time Night Shift: Monday-Friday, Every Other Weekend, 8:00pm-4:30am or 2000 0430 or 8:00pm -0530am. The primary responsibilities for this position include receiving, processing, labeling, and shipping blood products. Additionally, the role involves performing thorough visual inspections to ensure all blood products meet rigorous quality standards prior to distribution, as well as operating and maintaining laboratory equipment.

Training period will be in the afternoons from 1:00pm-8:30pm

Inova is consistently ranked as national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Featured Benefits: 

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement:  Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, and more. 

Laboratory Technician Assistant 1 Job Responsibilities

  • Adheres to CGMP for processing products, assessing product suitability, component creation, labeling and/or distribution of products; Evaluates specimens for acceptability per policy (i.e. volume, labeling, proper documentation for quality analysis).
  • Demonstrates proper techniques to provide excellent standards of care such as proper preparation (site selection, order of draw), proper technique following standard precautions and proper disposal of supplies according to facility policy; Demonstrates knowledge of special procedures (i.e. Bleeding Times, Lactic Acid, Legal Alcohol, Glucose Tolerances, etc).
  • Processes referred tests and/or miscellaneous tests per facility policy; Reviews system pending reports (e.g. WCP, WQS, PLR, PTR, etc.) for reference Laboratory tests and resolves problems.
  • Prioritizes STATs and routine specimens as they arrive in the Laboratory or on pending lists per facility standard operating procedures and handles workload efficiently.
  • Accurately enters patient demographics into HIS/LIS according to written, oral or faxed prescription; Confirms completeness of prescription (i.e. name, signatures). 
  • Additional duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications: 

  • Minimum Education: High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Years of Experience: No experience required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous lab processing experience preferred
  • 6 months' experience

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.


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