ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Assistant Jobs in Olney, MD (NOW HIRING)

Patient First

Lab Assistant

Landover Hills, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Providing quality and rapid lab results involving knowledge of laboratory analyses, proper procedures, work equipment, and safety procedures; * Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen ...

Patient First

Lab Assistant

Columbia, MD

$21.50 - $24/hr

Providing quality and rapid lab results involving knowledge of laboratory analyses, proper procedures, work equipment, and safety procedures; * Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen ...

PatientFirst

Lab Assistant

Columbia, MD · On-site

$21.50 - $24/hr

Providing quality and rapid lab results involving knowledge of laboratory analyses, proper procedures, work equipment, and safety procedures; * Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen ...

Seven Healthcare

RN - Cardiac Cath Lab

Reston, VA · On-site

$2.9K/wk

Weekly pay - prompt and reliable payments every week Key Responsibilities of the RN - Cardiac Cath Lab * Assist with heart catheterizations and pacemaker insertions * Provide pre and post-procedure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Olney, MD

Lab Assistant information

See Olney, MD salary details

$10

$20

$30

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Olney, MD is $20.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.61 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 Olney, MD? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Olney, MD are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Olney, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Olney, MD are:
What cities near Olney, MD are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Olney, MD with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Olney, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,103 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Lab Assistant

Lab Assistant

Patient First

Landover Hills, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Patient First rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

334th of 890 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Providing quality and rapid lab results involving knowledge of laboratory analyses, proper procedures, work equipment, and safety procedures;
  • Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen collection, handling, and processing, as well as for test analyses, reporting, and record maintenance of test results;
  • Adhering to the laboratory's quality control policies and documenting all quality control activities and maintenance under the supervision of the Lab Technician on duty;
  • Electronically ordering lab, x-ray, and medical supplies as directed;
  • Notifying the Nurse and/or Physician when patient is ready for exam while communicating symptoms and relaying questions about lab or x-ray needs;
  • Adhering to the established corrective action policies and procedures of the laboratory whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance and documenting those actions;
  • Identifying and troubleshooting problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results either by correcting the problem or notifying the Lab Technician on duty, Lab Supervisor, or Lab Consultant;
  • Receiving and distributing lab supplies as needed;
  • Adhering to safety policies as defined by Patient First and OSHA;
  • Assisting Nurses and Physicians with various forms of patient treatment and care;
  • Handling Physician and Nurse requests with respect and in a timely manner;
  • Fostering teamwork and ensuring a positive and professional atmosphere;
  • Providing positive, warm, and friendly service in all interactions;
  • Understanding and performing all duties as assigned.

Minimum education and professional requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Employee must be 18 years of age or older;
  • High school graduate or equivalent. Must have knowledge of laboratory principles, concepts, and methodologies sufficient to perform waived testing;
  • Ability to produce rapid, reliable, quality laboratory results during periods of high volume (100 or more patients per day);
  • Ability to multitask, prioritize work, and take initiative based on varying volume and dynamic situations;
  • Knowledge and skill sufficient to use and maintain laboratory instrumentation;
  • Proficiency in performing venipuncture, finger stick collections, and drug screens;
  • Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for long periods of time (possibly 4-7 hours at a time);
  • Must be able to lift moderately heavy to heavy items (20 to 50 pounds);
  • Willingness to work at any center due to a staffing or center emergency or reduction of work.
Salary Range: $22.00 - $25.00, depending on experience.

Benefits and Other Compensation:

Health, Dental and Vision insurance for employees and dependents

Disability, Life and Long Term care insurance

Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending accounts, 401(k) Retirement Plan (with employer match)

Paid Annual Leave, Volunteer Time Off Pay, Bereavement Leave, Emergency Leave Bank

Overtime Pay, Holiday Pay, Double time compensation for all holidays worked

Discounted medical treatment at any Patient First location for employees and immediate family

Bonuses include:

- Recruitment bonus

- Patient Care Performance bonus (center employees only)

- Weekend bonus (center employees only)

What Patient First employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply