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Lab Assistant Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Medical Assistant

Statesville, NC · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Free uniforms Any Lab Test Now is a leading provider of direct-access lab testing services ... Certified Medical Assistant * Must be able to pass a Background check and Drug Screen DESIRED:

Cath Lab Technician

Hickory, NC · On-site

$2.0K - $2.7K/wk

Key Responsibilities: * Assist physicians during cardiac catheterization procedures, including angiography, angioplasty, and pacemaker insertions. * Operate cath lab equipment, such as fluoroscopy ...

Lab Technician (FinishWorks)

Hudson, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

The Lab technician will work primarily within a designated development group, preparing customer samples, color-match products, and producing laboratory formulations. PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND ...

Cath Lab Technician

Hickory, NC · On-site

$2.0K - $2.7K/wk

Cath Lab Technician We're hiring a Cath Lab Technician to support a high-performing cardiovascular ... In this role, you'll assist with diagnostic and interventional cardiac procedures, ensuring the ...

WWTP Lab Tech

Kings Mountain, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WWTP Lab Tech Location: Kings Mountain, North Carolina Department: Water Resources Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Reports To: Wastewater Supervisor/ORC --- General Statement of Duties: The ...

WWTP Lab Tech

Kings Mountain, NC

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WWTP Lab Tech Location: Kings Mountain, North Carolina Department: Water Resources Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Reports To: Wastewater Supervisor/ORC --- General Statement of Duties: The ...

WWTP Lab Tech

Kings Mountain, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WWTP Lab Tech Location: Kings Mountain, North Carolina Department: Water Resources Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Reports To: Wastewater Supervisor/ORC General Statement of Duties: The Wastewater ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Hickory, NC is $18.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $20.67 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 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.

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 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.

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 in safety or specific techniques can enhance job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Hickory, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,705 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Clinical Lab Assistant I - Atrium Health Lincoln PRN

Advocate Aurora Health

Lincolnton, NC • On-site

$19.80 - $29.70/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Advocate Aurora Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 779 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Department:

60901 Atrium Health Lincoln - Lab

Status:

Part time

Benefits Eligible:

No

Hours Per Week:

0

Schedule Details/Additional Information:

Variable

Pay Range:

$19.80 - $29.70

Job Summary

Performs duties that support the efficient workflow of the laboratory. Duties may include obtaining patient specimens, processing laboratory specimens, patient registration and/or performing CLIA waived patient testing within the laboratory.
Essential Functions

  • Collects and/or processes patient blood obtained by venipuncture and/or capillary puncture timely and accurate.
  • Processes nonblood patient specimens in a timely and accurate fashion.
  • Assists in specimen preparation, receipt, and transport of patient specimens.
  • Performs patient registration.
  • Provides phone support for patient care areas in a polite and supportive manner.
  • Maintains competency with hospital and laboratory information systems as needed to perform job duties.
  • Trains new team members and/or students in the department including any standard work processes applicable to the work area.

Physical Requirements

Works in a fast-paced clinical environment. Works in an area that contains biohazardous (infectious) materials along with chemical, fire, and mechanical hazards. Duties may involve standing, walking, stretching, stooping, bending, and lifting light (20 pound) to moderately heavy (50 pound) loads. Some latex exposure may be expected. Wears appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times while working with patient specimens.
Education, Experience and Certifications

High School Diploma or GED required; Certification in phlebotomy preferred for facilities where phlebotomy is an assigned duty.

Our CommitmenttoYou:

Advocate Health offers a comprehensive suite of Total Rewards: benefits and well-being programs, competitive compensation, generous retirement offerings, programs that invest in your career development and so much more - so you can live fully at and away from work, including:

Compensation

  • Base compensation listed within the listed pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training

  • Premium pay such as shift, on call, and more based on a teammate's job

  • Incentive pay for select positions

  • Opportunity for annual increases based on performance

Benefits and more

  • Paid Time Off programs

  • Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, andShort- and Long-Term Disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses

  • Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave

  • Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs

  • Educational Assistance Program

Note: Eligibility for programs listed above may depend on your FTE or status (e.g., full-time, part-time, per diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview.


About Advocate Health

Advocate Health is the third-largest nonprofit, integrated health system in the United States, created from the combination of Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. Providing care under the names Advocate Health Care in Illinois; Atrium Health in the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama; and Aurora Health Care in Wisconsin, Advocate Health is a national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Advocate Health services nearly 6 million patients and is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine serving as the academic core of the enterprise. It is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics and rehabilitation, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Advocate Health employs 155,000 teammates across 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations, and offers one of the nation's largest graduate medical education programs with over 2,000 residents and fellows across more than 200 programs. Committed to providing equitable care for all, Advocate Health provides more than $6 billion in annual community benefits.


What Advocate Aurora Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Advocate Health logo

About Advocate Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Advocate Healthcare, based in Oak Lawn, Illinois, United States, is a leading figure in the health care industry. Accessible via their official website, 'advocatehealth.com', this organization provides a wide variety of medical services and treatment options. Founded in 1995 through a merger of Evangelical Health Systems Corporation and Lutheran General HealthSystem, Advocate Healthcare has grown exponentially over the years. Now, it operates more than 400 sites of care, including 12 hospitals that encompass 11 acute care hospitals, the state’s largest integrated children’s network, five Level I trauma centers, and three Level II trauma centers. Upholding their values of equality, compassion, excellence, partnership and stewardship, Advocate Healthcare's mission is centered on building lifelong relationships with patients by delivering the best health outcomes and highest level of service through an integrated approach to care and wellness.

Industry

Hospitals and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US