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Lab Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

PRN Healthcare

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$2.1K - $2.9K/wk

Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 07/13/2026 * Duration ... CARDIAC CATH CARDIAC CATH TECH About PRN Healthcare Our story starts with a 21-year-old CNA named ...

Standard Nuclear, Inc.

Lab Technician

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES Laboratory & Characterization Support * Assist with laboratory operations in the characterization area, including basic sample preparation and handling. * Support operation of ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$8

$17

$25

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $17.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $20.00 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.

More about Lab Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Clinical Laboratory Technologist - Core Lab

Clinical Laboratory Technologist - Core Lab

Labcorp

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Labcorp rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 1,108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

***$6,000 Sign on Bonus (external candidates only)***
Are you an experienced Clinical Lab Professional? Are you looking to embark on a new challenge in your career, or start your career in Clinical Lab Science? If so, Labcorp wants to speak with you about exciting opportunities to join our team as a Technologist at UT-Knoxville Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. In this position you will work in a fast paced, customer focused, and challenging environment, and will be a part of our overall mission at Labcorp: "Improving Health, Improving Lives".
Work Schedule: Rotating 2 week scheduled - Week 1: Mon/Tues & Fri/Sat/Sun (2:30am - 3:00pm) & Week 2: Wed/Thurs (2:30am- 3:00pm)
Benefits: Employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week are eligible for comprehensive benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD/LTD, 401(k), Paid Time Off (PTO) or Flexible Time Off (FTO), Tuition Reimbursement and Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Casual, PRN & Part Time employees regularly scheduled to work less than 20 hours are eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan only. For more detailed information, please click here
Job Responsibilities
  • Determine the acceptability of specimens for testing according to established criteria
  • Perform routine and complex technical procedures and functions according to departmental Standard Operating Procedures
  • Monitor, operate and troubleshoot instrumentation to ensure proper functionality
  • Demonstrate the ability to make technical decisions regarding testing and problem solving
  • Prepare, test and evaluate new reagents or controls
  • Report accurate and timely test results in order to deliver quality patient care
  • Perform and document preventative maintenance and quality control procedures
  • Identify and replenish testing bench supplies as necessary
  • Assist with processing of specimens when needed
  • Maintain a safe work environment and wear appropriate personal protective equipment

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Biological science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology or a non-traditional Bachelor's degree that meets local regulatory (CLIA & State) requirements
  • Minimum 1 year of clinical laboratory testing experience is required OR a MLS degree
  • ASCP or AMT certification is preferred
  • Ability to work independently and within a team environment
  • Proficient with computers; Familiarity with laboratory information systems is a plus
  • High level of attention to detail along with strong communication and organizational skills
  • Must be able to pass a standardized color vision screen
  • Flexibility to work overtime or other shifts depending on business needs

If you're looking for a career that offers opportunities for growth, continual development, professional challenge and the chance to make a real difference, apply today!
Labcorp is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer:
Labcorp strives for inclusion and belonging in the workforce and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. We make employment decisions based on the needs of our business and the qualifications and merit of the individual. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), family or parental status, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, personal appearance, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic. Additionally, all qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable law.
We encourage all to apply
If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance using our online tools to search and apply for jobs, or needs an accommodation, please visit our accessibility site or contact us at Labcorp Accessibility. For more information about how we collect and store your personal data, please see our Privacy Statement.

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