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Lab Assistant Jobs in Plains, MT (NOW HIRING)

Medical Lab tech

Plains, MT · On-site

$2.2K/wk

Job Details: Start Date : Flexible Position Location Contract Shift Pay MLT Plains, MT 59859 13 weeks Days 8 hrs. shift Gross weekly - $2200/hr. for 40 hrs. Please let me know you best time so that ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Plains, MT salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Plains, MT is $21.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Pay can also vary based on full-time or part-time status and the complexity of tasks performed.

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 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 such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

What cities near Plains, MT are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Plains, MT with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Plains, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,715 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Lab Medical Tech (MLS/CLS/CLT), Full Time

Cabinet Peaks Medical Center

Libby, MT • On-site

$28.17 - $39.44/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Cabinet Peaks Medical Center rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

682nd of 1,064 rated hospitals


Job description

Cabinet Peaks Medical Center is looking for a Medical Laboratory Technician to join the Laboratory Department!
The Medical Technologist implements the hospital's primary mission, goals, and objectives by exemplifying the short and long term vision, values, and goals of the department by providing professional clinical laboratory science services in the all clinical areas of the department. These duties may include but are not all inclusive such things as clinical testing, proficiency testing, quality control, professional consultation, instrument maintenance and validation, testing validation, testing management and all associated functions toward the attainment of these processes.
Major Job Duties & Responsibilities
Assist the Lab Manager in the daily operation in any and or all of the Laboratory areas, Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology, Serology, Toxicology, Urinalysis, Transfusion Medicine, Molecular Diagnostics, and Phlebotomy as assigned.
Practices Clinical Laboratory Medicine in all disciplines of study which means is responsible for the examination of materials and or specimens taken from the human body to provide the information or materials for use in the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of a disease or a the assessment of a medical condition. This includes the pre-analytic, analytic, and post analytic phases of such examinations.
Performs clinical examinations on body fluids and exudates utilizing quantitative, qualitative, or automated methods. Performs any type of testing for which competency has been validated to obtain data for use in diagnosis and treatment of disease. Performs and interprets intradermal antigen skin tests.
Provides informed consent for all testing required by law to all patients and provides appropriate consultation to laboratory or hospital as may be necessary
Receives written or electronic requests from physicians for routine or special laboratory analysis.
Performs necessary studies to validate and full make functional by sound clinical mean all testing systems within the Laboratory.
Interact and perform clinical laboratory examinations on patients of all ages. Obtains specimens for clinical laboratory examination directly from patients of any age, to include infants.
After proper instruction, operate any and all scientific instruments and perform any required scientific procedure.
May be required to oversee work and instruct non-independent practitioners and trainees as well as all student rotations that apply.
Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities
Must possess technical reading skills in order to be able to read and comprehend in depth technical manuals.
Able to examine materials and or specimens to provide the information or materials for use in the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of a disease or the assessment of a medical condition. This includes the pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic phases of such examinations. Will consult with MLS for high complexity testing.
Near visual acuity with no form of colorblindness is required to read detailed testing kits and to examine specimens.
Ability to interact and perform clinical laboratory examinations on patients of all ages. Obtains specimens for clinical laboratory examination directly from patients of any age, to include infants.
Must possess sufficient academic, technical, and clinical skills and knowledge to evaluate, trouble shoot, research, and resolve day to day problems that arise or special projects as assigned by the Laboratory Manager.
Knowledge of all scientific instruments and ability to perform any required scientific procedure.
Able to solve most problems and handle difficult situations with little or no supervision.
Has written and oral communication abilities adequate to comprehend technical material and communicate with other medical professionals.
Education Requirements
Licensure by the Montana State Board of Clinical Laboratory personnel as a medical laboratory technologist.
Associates Degree in Clinical Laboratory science, or one of the chemical or biological sciences.
Successful licensure by a National Accrediting Agency such as NCA, AAB, or ASCP.
Experience
One (1) year of experience preferred.
Schedule
Based on the needs of the department.
Benefits Package Available.
Part-time benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, long-term disability (LTD), and life & accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance for you and your eligible family members, plus a 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
Cabinet Peaks Medical Center is committed to providing a safe, efficient, and productive work environment for all employees. To help ensure a safe and healthful working environment, each applicant to whom an offer of employment has been made will be required as a condition of employment to undergo a substance test. Additional pre-employment items may be required. Please contact Human Resources for details.

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