ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Assistant Jobs in Halifax, NS (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Halifax, NS

Lab Assistant information

See Halifax, NS salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Halifax, NS is $17.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.95 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 Halifax, NS?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Halifax, NS are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Halifax, NS?

For Lab Assistant jobs in Halifax, NS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Halifax, NS are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Halifax, NS with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Halifax, NS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,929 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Assistant, CSTMST

Halifax, NS

Nova Scotia Health and IWK Health
See more jobs at Nova Scotia Health and IWK Healthexternal

CA$24.97 - CA$29.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Click here to apply as an internal applicant.
Company : IWK Health

Req ID: 225044 
Department/Program: Pre/Post Analysis, Diagnostic Services & Maritime Medical Genetics 
Location: Halifax  
Type of Employment: Permanent Hourly FT (100% FTE)  x 1 position(s)
Start Date: September 2026
Union Status: NSGEU Hlthcare, Healthcare Bargaining Unit
Compensation: $24.9695 - $29.7178 /hour
Closing Date: August 25, 2026 (Applications are accepted until 23:59 Atlantic Time)

 

IWK Health is a respected academic health sciences centre located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, providing tertiary and primary care for two million children, youth, adults and families each year across the Atlantic region. We have a team of approximately 4000 employees, physicians, volunteers and learners at sites across Nova Scotia. People build careers with IWK Health with our focus on training and mentorship opportunities. We recognize each other's talent and celebrate our successes. We collaborate in modern facilities or virtually from home, align our work to our values, and enjoy access to enhanced benefits and wellness programs. We are proud to support our patients, families and communities and are grateful for the generous donor support we receive.

 

Promoting an anti-racist environment, and calling out discrimination as we work and provide care, is important to us. We are located in Mi'kma'ki, the unceded and ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaq people. Working in Mi'kma'ki and providing care to those across Atlantic Canada is a shared privilege with the original inhabitants who have lived here for many thousands of years prior to colonization. There are 13 First Nation communities across Nova Scotia, and more than 50 historic African Nova Scotian communities who also have a long, deep, and complex history dating back over 400 years. We have the highest percentage of people with disabilities in the country. Nova Scotia has the highest proportions of transgender and non-binary people than any other province or territory in the country. We are active in our work to eliminate discrimination, but have more work to do to build that trust, acknowledge our biases and reduce the barriers our diverse communities face. We want IWK Health to be a safe and supportive space of equity and belonging in the care we provide and the employment we offer. We welcome all interested persons who self-identify as Indigenous, Black/African Nova Scotians, Persons of Colour, Immigrants/Newcomers, Persons with Disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ to apply to support our goal for our workforce to be representative of the patients, families, and communities that we care for at all job levels.

The Opportunity

The Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) performs a wide variety of laboratory functions to meet operational requirements.  Responsibilities include: performing venous and capillary blood collections; using MEDITECH for order/entry; cleaning and sterilizing work area and equipment; blood specimen processing; preparing reagents and performs other related duties as required.

Hours of Work

7.5 hour shifts; Monday-Friday, Weekends, Nights, Evenings, Holidays

Your Qualifications
  • Minimum High School Diploma or G.E.D. required, with English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or acceptable equivalents.
  • Completion of a certified Medical Lab Assistant course is required.
  • Certification, or eligible for certification, as an MLA with the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) required.
  • Licensed or eligible for licensure with the Nova Scotia Regulator of Medical Laboratory Sciences (NSRMLS) required.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of principles, methods, and techniques related to procurement of specimens and a sound knowledge of Phlebotomy required.
  • Willingness to apply, perform and learn computer functions required for the position.
  • Demonstrated tact, the ability to work with others and the ability to work as a member of a team.
  • Demonstrated strong planning, organizational, analytical and communication skills.
  • Experience in a similar lab environment an asset.
  • MEDITECH experience an asset.
  • Competency in other languages considered an asset
     

** Internal applicants currently employed as Medical Laboratory Assistants who do not hold certification will be considered

Thank you for your interest in IWK Health.

Please note that we only contact applicants selected for interview/testing. If we invite you to participate in an assessment process (such as an interview or testing) you have the right to request accommodation. Please discuss your needs when invited to the assessment process.

This is a Healthcare  bargaining  unit position. Preference is given to bargaining unit employees for unionized positions. Successful applicants changing unions, bargaining units or employment status, are advised to seek clarification regarding their seniority, benefits, and vacation entitlement and/or usage, prior to accepting the position.

An offer of employment is conditional upon the completion and satisfactory results of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials.

 

If you are an employee of IWK Health, please apply through the internal careers page to ensure you are flagged as an internal applicant. 

Apply