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Lab Assistant Jobs in Ketchikan, AK (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Assistant information

See Ketchikan, AK salary details

$10

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Ketchikan, AK is $21.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $24.52 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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Ketchikan, AK look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Ketchikan, AK are:

What cities near Ketchikan, AK are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Ketchikan, AK with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Ketchikan, AK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,782 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
Incumbent in this position will be responsible for the coordination and continued evaluation of patient care across the health care continuum.  This care includes planning, coordinating, tracking, and evaluation of the care of patient populations identified by the clinical staff as being at high risk, of high volume, or requiring special care coordination.

May be occasionally asked to assist in clinical patient care as needed.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 
The Case Manager, clinic team and Director of Nursing will identify:

1.    Patient populations known to be at high risk due or in need of close monitoring:

a.    Elders;

b.    Hypertension (HTN) patients;

c.    Diabetes (DM) patients;

d.    Cancer related chemotherapy; 

e.    HIV / AIDS 

f.    Asthma

g.    Hepatitis

h.    Chronically-ill and at-risk pediatric patients;

i.     Others as deemed appropriate

2.    Patients who could benefit from case management assistance, such as

a.    Team Conferences

b.    Care Planning

c.    Patient Contracting

d.    Family Meetings

3.    Assists the team in the development, implementation, and evaluation of tracking systems to assure continuity of care and follow-up according to KIC, American Association of Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) accreditation, State, Federal, and Indian Health Service (IHS) standards of care.

4.    Serve as team liaison within KICTHC and outside agencies to assist in communication and collaboration of health care, including disease screening referral processes.

5.    Participates in Case Management related Quality Improvement activities upholding AAAHC standards.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Knowledge of professional nursing principles, practices, and procedures for age appropriate basic to the ambulatory setting;
  • Knowledge of a wide variety of medical disorders, their normal course, anticipated complications and therapeutic interventions for patients of all ages;
  • Knowledge of clinical / technical skills such as cognitive, psychomotor, and technical understanding;
  • Knowledge of critical thinking skills as needed for the position such as problem solving, time management, priority setting, planning, creativity, ethics, resource allocation, clinical reasoning, reflective practice, learning, and change management.
  • Knowledge of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA);
  • Skill in administering, implementing, and documenting therapeutic measurers in a correct and safe manner;
  • Skill to operate software programs and specialized medical equipment;
  • Ability to perform routine treatments such as inhalation therapy, catheterization, dressing changes, venipuncture, IV therapy, CLIA waived point-of-care (POC) lab testing, and other procedures within the scope of nursing practice and as ordered by the practitioner.
  • Ability to conduct an age-appropriate patient assessment to determine nursing diagnosis, plan of care, and ongoing data reflecting patient outcome and changing conditions;
  • Ability to communicate professionally over the telephone and in person in a positive and clear manner;
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, including telephone, computer operations and in-person visits simultaneously;
  • Ability to take verbal instruction and complete assigned project by established deadline;
  • Ability to be flexible in order to perform at the highest level as a team player;
  • Ability to utilize maximum degree of professionalism and diplomacy with those who may be experiencing a high degree of stress both mentally and/or physically (both patients and co-workers);
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and able to prioritize assignments;
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of all KIC operations and staff.

Physical Activities
Must be able to work in an office environment in a stationary position the majority of the workday. This position needs to occasionally move about inside the office environment to access office equipment, attend face-to-face meetings on / off site as needed, zoom meetings, teleconference calls, videoconferencing, e-mail, and similar activities. etc.  Routinely lifting and carrying items and boxes up to ten (10) pounds.

Large portion of time will be spent in front of computer screen, researching and reviewing various documents for final disposition to internal / external customers. Writing by hand and using a personal computer. Traveling occasionally, to out-of-town meetings and functions.

Working Conditions
The environment involves the usual risks and stress of an office environment within a public service facility.  The employee may be exposed to communicable diseases.  Safety precautions for employees such as blood drawing for screening of various diseases such as hepatitis, required immunizations, etc. are necessary.  The employee is occasionally subject to verbal abuse, threats, and physical violence from angry, hostile, or disgruntled patients and/or family members. 

KIC COMPETENCIES
Cultural Competency: To be respectful and responsive to the health beliefs, practices, and cultural and linguistic needs of KIC Tribal Members. Developing cultural competence is an evolving, dynamic process that takes time and occurs along a continuum.

Commitment: To serve Tribal Members and set a high standard for yourself in your performance; strive for results and success; convey a sense of urgency and bring issues to closure; and stay persistent despite obstacles and opposition.  

Customer Service: Meet/exceed the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers; identify, understand, and monitor the needs of both internal and external customers, always talk and act with customers in mind; and recognize working colleagues as customers. 

Effective Communication: Ensure important information is passed to those who need to know; convey necessary information with respect, clearly and effectively orally or in writing.

Responsiveness and Accountability: Demonstrate a high level of conscientiousness; hold oneself personally responsible for one's own work; and do the required fair share of work.

Licensure
Possess current valid State of Alaska driver's license with a record acceptable to KIC’s Insurance carrier.

Registered Nurse in the State of Alaska or eligible to practice in the United States as a commissioned officer of the U. S. Public Health Service.

Must have current BLS certification and able to obtain ACLS / PALS certification

Education
Graduate Degree in nursing, from an accredited school of Nursing, Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing preferred.