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Lab Assistant Jobs in Mercedes, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Assistant information

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Mercedes, TX is $18.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.63 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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Mercedes, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Mercedes, TX are:
What cities near Mercedes, TX are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Mercedes, TX with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Mercedes, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,506 per year, or $19 per hour.

Medical Lab Scientist II - FT - Nights -Varies- Lab

DHR Health

Edinburg, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


DHR Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

DHR Health - US:TX:Edinburg - Days
Summary:
Provide services to meet the needs of patients as ordered by medical staff and performed in accordance with accepted standards and practices. This individual will perform technical functions and activities in the laboratory including, maintenance, quality control and training for highly sophisticated instrumentation and laboratory equipment use of chemicals and related supplies used in the testing process. Collects and collates data for Quality Assurance studies. Coordinates/leads work team. Sets up new equipment and/or writes procedures. Oversees work of, Lab Assistants and Phlebotomists.
POSITION EDUCATION/ QUALIFICATIONS:
    • Bachelor's degree in Clinical Laboratory Science or Applied Sciences (required)
    • Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or equivalent specialty certification within one year of hiring date (required)
    • Minimum of two years' experience required

Responsibilities:
  • Promotes the facility mission, vision and values by effectively communicating them to others. Considers mission, vision and values in developing services, standards and practices.
  • Develop and establish procedures for collecting, processing, and analyzing biological specimens and other substances.
  • Perform analytical tests of body fluids, blood, serum, plasma, cells, and other substances Integrate and relate data generated by various clinical laboratories while making decisions regarding possible discrepancies.
  • Performs routine and complex laboratory procedures recognizing deviation from expected results, and analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles
  • Confirm abnormal results, verify and execute quality control procedures, and solve problems concerning the generation of laboratory data.
  • Make decisions concerning the results of quality control and quality assurance measures and institute proper procedures to maintain accuracy and precision.
  • Establish and perform preventive and corrective maintenance of equipment and instruments as well as identify appropriate sources for repairs.
  • Develop, evaluate, and select new techniques, instruments, and methods in terms of their usefulness and practicality within the context of a given laboratory's personnel, equipment, space, and budgetary resources.
  • Assists and/or instructs personnel with complex procedures
  • Participate in continuing education for growth and maintenance of professional competence.
  • Instructs new employees, section personnel, and students in new and established clinical laboratory responsibility
  • Evaluates new test procedures
  • Assists and/or instructs personnel with complex procedures
  • Follows training program for new hires
  • Provide leadership in educating other health personnel and the community.
  • Exercise principles of management, safety, and supervision.
  • Insures compliance with federal and state regulations
  • Use principles of current information systems.
  • Other duties as assigned

Other information:
JOB KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE:
  • Proficient knowledge of clinical laboratory process, testing and analytical procedures and techniques, and various specialized laboratory equipment of the assigned laboratory unit.
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Knowledge of directing the work of Medical Technologists and lower level laboratory staff.
  • Computer skills required with knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills required.
  • Bilingual - English/Spanish.

LINES OF REPSONSIBILITES:
(Chain-of-command)
1. Vice President of Laboratory 2. Assistant Vice President of Laboratory 3. Laboratory Supervisor
CUSTOMER SERVICE:
Provide excellent customer service to all DHR customers. All employees are required to attend the DHR C.A.R.E.S program which outlines the Customer Service Principals including: Commitment, Accountability, Respect, Excellence and Service.
AGE SPECIFIC:
Employees must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served in his/her assigned unit. The individual must demonstrate knowledge of principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirement relative to his or her age.

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About DHR Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DHR Health, located in Edinburg, Texas, is a major player in the healthcare industry, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. Launched in 1997 by Dr. Carlos J. Cardenas and Dr. Manish Singh, the enterprise was established with the emblematic pursuit of raising the healthcare standards of the Rio Grande Valley. Today, it serves as a full-service health system providing advanced specialty care to individuals irrespective of their ability to pay, emphasizing its commitment to the community. In line with its mission statement, DHR Health focuses on the development of a comprehensive health system devoted to ensuring superior health services, education, and financial solvency. With significant contributions to the medical field, like the installation of South Texas's first da Vinci Xi Surgical System, DHR has effectively notched distinct achievements.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Edinburg, TX, US

Year founded

1997

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