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Lab Assistant Jobs in Jackson, MO (NOW HIRING)

Physician Assistant

Cape Girardeau, MO · On-site

$96K - $130K/yr

The Physician Assistant will perform comprehensive patient evaluations, review medical histories ... Strong skills in patient assessment, ordering and interpreting lab work, and developing ...

New

IL Lab Aide - Student

Anna, IL · On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Join our laboratory team as a Laboratory Assistant/Phlebotomist and play an essential role in helping physicians diagnose and treat patients through accurate specimen collection, processing, and ...

IL Medical Lab Technician - MLT

Anna, IL · On-site

$23.88 - $35.82/hr

Document and report laboratory findings promptly and accurately. * Assist with specimen collection, processing, and preparation as needed. * Follow all laboratory safety, infection control, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Assistant information

See Jackson, MO salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Jackson, MO is $17.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $20.14 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.

What cities near Jackson, MO are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Jackson, MO with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Jackson, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,773 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Registered Nurse - GI Lab (FT, Days)

Mercy

Cape Girardeau, MO • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

614th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy! Overview:
Utilizes the nursing process to provide patient care. Maintains professional accountability for provision of patient care for the assigned patients. Evaluates the overall effectiveness of care provided by other direct care givers. Coordinates the patient care in conjunction with other departments. Maintains patient rights and confidentiality of patient information. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Registered Nurse

Location: Mercy Hospital Southeast, Cape Girardeau, MO

Department: GI Lab

Status: Full-Time - 40 hours/weekShift: Days + Additional call hours to include evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Experienced RN Incentives:
  • Up to $10,000 Sign-On Bonus
  • No Contract Required!
  • ASN to BSN Bridging Program to assist in obtaining your BSN (up to $16,000).

  • BSN to MSN Bridging Program to assist in obtaining your MSN (up to $16,000).

New RN Incentives:
  • Up to $7,500 Sign-On Bonus
  • No Contract Required
  • RN Loan Forgiveness Program to aide in paying off your RN student loan debt. (Must start with Mercy within 12-months of graduation.)

Qualifications:
  • Required Education: Graduated from a school of nursing (BSN, Associate's Degree, or Diploma Program).

  • Licensure: Is personally responsible for obtaining, and maintaining, a current Missouri RN license and/or compact licensure in which nursing duties are performed. Must meet all state board of nursing requirements.

  • Certifications: Basic Life Support certification through the American Heart Association or successful completion of course within 30 days of hire. Other unit specific certifications such as ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) as required. 

  • Other: Physical requirements/demands:

    • Position requires individuals to push, pull, and/or lift 50 pounds on a regular basis.

    • Position requires prolonged standing and walking each shift.

    • Position requires the ability to grip, reach, bend, kneel, twist, and squat to perform duties.

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


keyword(s): RN, Registered Nurse, Digestive Health, GI Lab

What Mercy employees say

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About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827