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Lab Assistant Jobs in Ocala, FL (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Assistant information

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$9

$17

$25

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Ocala, FL is $17.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $20.10 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 an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with safety protocols are important. Certification in laboratory safety or related areas can be beneficial but is not always required.

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.

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Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Ocala, FL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 83% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,716 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Medical Lab Assistant - Per Diem

Select Medical

Oxford, FL

$24/hr

Per diem

Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position: Medical Lab Assistant

Location: Select Specialty Hospital- The Villages

Schedule: Per Diem/ PRN - must have every other weekend availability

Compensation: $24.00/hr.

Our hospital is a critical illness recovery hospital committed to providing world-class inpatient post-ICU services to chronic, critically ill patients who require extended healing and recovery. Each employee plays a vital role in doing that by living our cultural behaviors - celebrating success, owning the future, being patient-centered, creating change, thinking first and building trust.

Why Join Us:

  • Start Strong: Extensive orientation program to ensure a smooth transition into our setting.
  • Opportunity for Advancement: Demonstrate your skills and dedication which could lead to potential full-time opportunities
  • Foster Well-being: We offer benefits which support the financial, work/life and emotional well-being of you and your family members.  Part time/Per Diem positions are eligible for 401k based on reaching 1,000 hours within their first anniversary or subsequent calendar year. We also offer our employee assistance program to part time employees.
  • Your Impact Matters: Join a team of over 44,000 committed to providing exceptional patient care

Under the general supervision of the Laboratory Manager, the Laboratory Assistant will be responsible for having a working knowledge of all pre-analytical processes of laboratory services provided by Select Medical, which may include, but is not limited to specimen processing and phlebotomy services.

  • Follows laboratory protocols for pre-analytical processes.
  • Adequately prepares specimens for send-out to reference lab testing.
  • Advises Lab Manager of malfunctioning equipment, LIS issues, and any unusual situations, occurrences, conditions, or reactions.
  • Performs venipuncture when necessary
  • Monitors venipuncture inventory and reports inadequacies to the Lab Manager.
  • Performs phlebotomist duties according to established standards, practices and procedures, while utilizing proper techniques and equipment in the performance of duties.
  • Follows appropriate PPE requirements while performing duties, gathers supplies and assembles equipment according to standards of practice, and assures equipment is clean and functioning properly.
  • Confirms patient identification using two identifiers, performs phlebotomy and collects appropriate specimens as indicated on the test requisition.
  • Properly identifies and labels specimen(s) at the patient’s bedside after matching patient label on the wristband to the patient label being affixed to the specimen.
  • Notifies the nursing staff regarding any issues or concerns noted prior to, during, and/or following the procedure, as well as any patient refusal and/or inability to obtain patient sample and documents accordingly.
  • Verifies specimen collection, centrifuges and processes specimens as needed.

Minimum requirements:

  • High School graduation or equivalent. 
  • BLS required.
  • Current certification from one of the following: the National Phlebotomy Association, American Medical Technologists, American Society for Clinical Pathology National Healthcareer Association, National Center for Competeny Testing, or other approved agencies.

Preferred qualifications that will make you successful:

  • One (1) year of clinical laboratory experience preferred.

Equal Opportunity Employer/including Disabled/Veterans

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