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Lab Assistant Jobs in O Fallon, IL (NOW HIRING)

The assistant laboratory I processes patients, specimens, orders, reports, requests; assists ... Handles general lab issues as indicated, always exercising sound and professional judgment in ...

The assistant laboratory I processes patients, specimens, orders, reports, requests; assists ... Handles general lab issues as indicated, always exercising sound and professional judgment in ...

The assistant laboratory I processes patients, specimens, orders, reports, requests; assists ... Handles general lab issues as indicated, always exercising sound and professional judgment in ...

Lab Technician

Creve Coeur, MO · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Job Title: Lab Technician (Entry) Location: Creve Coeur, MO Zip Code: 63167 Keyword ... Immediate POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist in operating laboratory equipment to generate ...

Lab Technician

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Job Title: Lab Technician (Entry) Location: Creve Coeur, MO Zip Code: 63167 Keyword ... Immediate POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist in operating laboratory equipment to generate ...

Lab Technician

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Job Title: Lab Technician (Entry) Location: Creve Coeur, MO Zip Code: 63167 Keyword ... Immediate POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist in operating laboratory equipment to generate ...

Support existing products through testing and investigation in a timely manner. Assist with ... lab (e.g., open card pouches, label cards for setups) Perform microbial testing using the VITEK 2 ...

Lab Technician (Entry) Location: Creve Coeur, MO, 63167 Duration: 3 Months Job Type: Temporary ... POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: * Assist in operating laboratory equipment to generate accurate ...

Lab Associate II - Core Lab

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.75 - $25.56/hr

Additional Information About the Role Are you looking for a career as a Lab Associate II? Look no further than BJC! This position is in processing. Join our Core Laboratory team to be an integral ...

Lab Technician Compensation: $17.00 per hour Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM The salary for this position reflects a variety of factors. Compensation will be determined based on the ...

Lab Associate II - (Nights)

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.75 - $25.56/hr

This position is in processing & lab clerical tasks. Minimal phlebotomy as needed . Join our Laboratory team at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital to be an integral part of delivering precise and ...

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Lab Assistant information

See O Fallon, IL salary details

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in O'Fallon, IL is $18.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.54 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.

What are lab assistants?

Lab assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or instructors by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting routine experiments, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. They may also be responsible for recording data, managing supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Lab assistants work in various settings, including educational institutions, research facilities, hospitals, and private laboratories.

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced lab assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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?

Lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures or safety. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some roles may also require familiarity with specific tools or software used in labs.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, or extensive experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level lab assistant 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in O'Fallon, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in O'Fallon, IL are:
What cities near O'Fallon, IL are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near O'Fallon, IL with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in O'Fallon, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,283 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Laboratory Assistant I

Laboratory Assistant I

SSM Health

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$15.96/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


SSM Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 536 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

495th of 886 rated healthcare providers


Job description

It's more than a career, it's a calling.
MO-SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital 1201 Grand
Worker Type:
Regular
Job Highlights:
Additional Job Description
SSM Health - St. Louis University Hospital is hiring a Full-Time Evening-Shift Phlebotomist to join our care team. This position works five 8-hour shifts per week schedule 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM with rotating holidays and weekends.
Starting pay is $15.96 per hour with the opportunity to increase based on experience. Qualified external candidates are eligible for a $2,000 sign-on bonus. Preferred candidates will have at least one year of phlebotomy experience.
Sign-on bonuses are for qualified external candidates. Internal candidates should check with their recruiter to discuss available options.
Job Summary:
All the duties and standards of this position will be performed according to established policies, procedures and guidelines within the department and the health system. These examples of work are not all-encompassing or restrictive and are expected to vary with changing needs and priorities. The duties for a specific position with this title will be defined and assigned by the immediate department director/manager.
Job Responsibilities and Requirements:
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
Performs duties in Phlebotomy, Processing, Transporting, Posting and/or Billing, Ancillary testing, Anatomical Pathology, Blood Bank, Special Testing and Microbiology, or other departments with the Pathology laboratory following prescribed procedures. The assistant laboratory I processes patients, specimens, orders, reports, requests; assists pathologists and residents in the performance of autopsies, collects and transports specimens in a courteous, timely and accurate manner. Refers unusual problems to appropriate superior. Sets priorities with changing workload to insure the final reporting of test results are within prescribed time limits.
POSTION ACCOUNTABILITIES AND PERFORMANCE CRITERIA (% of Time)
Essential Functions: The following are essential job accountabilities and performance criteria. These functions are measured by: supervisory observation, quality assurance findings, written documentation, results of accreditation inspections and as reported by others.
"*" Denotes the essential job functions according to ADA guidelines.
*1. Accurately and precisely performs duties following clinical procedures and standards. Ensures that patient identification information matches test request information consistently. Performs routine, timed, and STAT venipuncture or capillary sticks from any patient. Correctly labels tubes and requisitions consistently. Processes patients, specimens, orders, reports, requests; collects and transports specimens in a courteous, timely and accurate manner. (1,3,5,6,7)
Criteria
A) Responds to STAT orders immediately and meets turnaround times for routine and STAT specimens consistently.
B) Records appropriate comments in the Hospital Information System when applicable.
C) Collects and enters charges in a timely manner.
D) Records test volumes accurately.
E) Handles equipment as trained.
F) Recognizes and reports computer malfunctions to supervisory personnel.
G) Responsible for specimen collection and adheres to laboratory phlebotomy policies and procedures.
H) Identifies patient correctly consistently.
I) Prepare phlebotomy trays/properly disposes of used equipment.
J) Obtains specimens without assistance consistently.
K) Coordinates drawing so the patients do not have to be stuck unnecessarily.
L) Uses correct labeling procedures consistently.
M) Has less than three patient complaints per year concerning treatment or technique.
N) Responsible for proper specimen processing, follows procedures for reference work and billing of patients.
O) Determines suitability of submitted specimens, checks for proper labeling, receives specimen in the hospital information system with no more than five errors per year and re-labels specimen tubes by laboratory procedures consistently.
P) Centrifuges samples, prepares aliquots and properly stores specimens according to test instructions consistently.
Q) Distributes processed specimens to the appropriate departments in a timely basis, processes routine specimens correctly within one hour, stats within one half hour and has no more than five complaints per year.
R) Prepares specimens and requisitions from reference laboratories accurately and files reports according to procedure consistently.
S) Records results from reference laboratories accurately and files reports according to hospital procedures, with no more than three errors per year.
T) Credits/charges in the hospital information system or prepares batches for Data Processing.
U) Responsible for scheduled hospital rounds and STAT transporting within 15 minutes with no more than three complaints per year.
V) Follows established procedures for the basic operation of the tube system.
W) Performs and documents Preventive Maintenance and Quality Control in a timely manner, when necessary
X) Issue units (RBC, FFP, Platelets, and Cry) per departmental procedure.
Y) Able to use Compliance Checker: knows software, when and how to use it accurately
Z) Accessions specimens accurately. Recognizes and resolves discrepancies.
AA) Labels blocks properly.
BB) Maintains department supplies.
CC) Performs diener duties according to department procedures.
DD) Files blocks/slides tissues accurately and in a timely fashion.
EE) Prepares paperwork for registration and does follow-up.
FF) Demonstrates the ability to assess a situation, consider alternatives and choose the appropriate course of action.
GG) Works well under pressure, remaining calm and organized.
HH) Ensures competency according to laboratory competency and education guidelines by completing training checklists and annual competency.
II) Demonstrate ability to relate to coworkers in a professional and respectful manner, in order to assure and promote a culture of safety.
*2. Provides good customer service with an accurate, prompt, and courteous response for inquiries from patients, physicians and other hospital staff, answering telephones calls by the third ring and identifying oneself ACCORDING TO THE SCRIPTED MESSAGE ON THE TELEPHONE.
Criteria
A) Uses a tone of voice, which demonstrates a caring attitude and a willingness to help.
B) Displays courtesy with other staff, physicians, students and volunteers as internal customers
C) Recognizes the needs and expectations of those people SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital serves
D) Answers the telephones by responding to requests in a caring and timely fashion. Courteously answers the telephone utilizing the approved script (Department, Name and "How May I Help You?" and in closing "Is there anything else I can do for you today?") keeps noise to a minimum.
E) Extends apologies as appropriate when service fails and endeavors to take corrective action. Explains delays.
F) Explains rationale and offers alternatives when unable to fulfill a request.
G) Presents employee identification to customers by properly wearing identification badges and extends a personal introduction. Wears badge on person in the appropriate position face out above the waist.
H) Solicits customer feedback to improve service.
I) Displays understanding of how job relates to others.
J) Is able to work independently when necessary without direct supervision
K) Keeps personal phone calls to a minimum so they don't interfere with work.
*3. Utilizes problem-solving skills in a variety of situations, which require corrective actions, consistently. Handles general lab issues as indicated, always exercising sound and professional judgment in determining items that require referral. Informs immediate supervisor in a timely and accurate manner of all decisions made.
Criteria
A) Identifies viability of specimens and communicates problems to appropriate personnel.
B) Correctly locates and fills in patient or other information when missing.
C) Is able to recognize inappropriate specimens and specimens with collection and/or labeling errors and takes appropriate action to obtain a new specimen and record problems in hospital information system.
D) Assumes initiative to resolve problems.
E) Assumes responsibility and ownership in solving problems and helps to resolve complaints.
*4) PEOPLE: Apply high-quality management and leadership principles to foster continued employee development. Treat each other and our patients with respect and dignity. Hold integrity and honesty as our most important principle and perform at the highest ethical standard at all times.
Criteria
A) Able to work with diverse populations (patient, staff, physicians) under difficult and stressful situations. Supports the team approach. Committed to Target 100 values.
B) Utilizes positive and constructive criticism to improve overall practice. Has a positive attitude.
C) Teamwork: Understands and supports the needs of individuals in other departments, works as a team to achieve mutual goals. Aids and promptly responds to requests (patient, physician, manager and others).
D) Works well under pressure, remaining calm and organized.
E) Communicates and follows the organizational chain of command for notification of patient care/service issues when appropriate.
F) Uses complaints as opportunities by being supportive and addressing concerns promptly with courtesy and respect. Avoids blaming others.
5) GROWTH: Maintains professional growth, development, competency and education through reading, seminars, workshops, conferences, and professional affiliations, always selecting activities which are relative to current/upcoming issues and concerns in area of responsibility and which will maximize benefits to the department and health system.
Criteria
A) Offers opinion and information that reflect positively on SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital .
B) Understands how individual job performance affects department and hospital growth.
C) Establishes yearly personal goals that enhance job skill & performance.
D) Maintains quality of work with the up and down of the department workload.
E) Maintains high productivity levels.
6) Accepts, follows up, and completes all additional duties that will need to be performed to maintain quality work and provide excellent service to our customers.
Criteria
A) Is a change agent to accomplish additional duties
B) Willingly accepts new tasks in the daily shift routine
C) Proactively can reprioritize tasks to accomplish all requirements in time allotted
D) Responsible for the supervision and teaching of students
E) Trains new employees and identifies and refers training needs to manager in a timely manner with verification of checklists, tests and evaluations.
7) QUALITY: Achieve standards of excellence that become the benchmark of industry practices. Strive for daily improvement in everything we do. Use innovation and creativity to identify and solve problems.
Criteria
A) Policies/Procedures: Is aware of and follows all hospital and departmental policies and procedures.
B) Punctuality: Clocks in by the scheduled start time of the shift & is ready for work. Continues working until scheduled departure time. Leaves as scheduled unless overtime or leaving early is approved by supervisor.
C) Work Habits: Readily accepts work assignments in a positive manner. Performs work that is accurate, neat, and consistent. Documentation is legible.
D) Ensures that the right of all patients is respected and maintained by allowing for privacy, culture diversity and dignity in the provision of care.
E) Avoids use of work time for personal business.
F) Returns from lunch and breaks promptly.
G) Willingness to adjust personal schedule in case of emergency department need.
8) COST: Demonstrates ongoing fiscal accountability, using both time and supplies efficiently and effectively to minimize waste or overtime and maximize productivity.
Criteria
A) Ensures that personnel and supplies of the organization are used in a cost-effective manner.
B) Identifies cost saving strategies for department/hospital.
C) Submits accurate hospital charges.
D) Responds to changes in workload using time to departmental advantage.
E) Minimizes overtime as approved.
9) Safety/Infection Control: Practices according to safety and infection control policies. (1,2,3,4,5) 5%
Criteria
A) Practices universal precautions and disposes of hazardous wastes per established guidelines.
B) Maintains a safe, clean, comfortable and therapeutic environment for patients/families/employees in accordance with hospital standards.
1. Maintains clutter free environment.
2. Keeps conversations and background noise to a minimum
3. Adheres to dress code.
C) Reports risk management concerns.
D) Assumes responsibility for completing all annual mandatory requirements:
1. Safety/Fire
2. Blood Borne Pathogen
3. Hazardous Communication
4. TB
5. Department Specific
6. Age Appropriate Care (if appropriate)
E) Consistently uses personal protective equipment (PPE) as mandated.
F) Work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
10) SERVICE: Demonstrates Target 100 service always to department customers; patients, physicians, each other, visitors, other departments, and University employees. Meet the needs of each patient, whose care is our primary purpose and mission. (1,2,3,4,5) 10%
Criteria
A) Demonstrates courteous, polite, friendly and cooperative behavior toward others.
B) Supports and participates in activities that promote customer satisfaction.
C) Utilizes approved hospital scripts. Courteously answer the telephone utilizing the approved script (D

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