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Lab Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Nova Analytic Labs

Lab Technologist

Portland, ME · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

This is an entry level job opportunity to assist with daily lab tasks, sample pickup, sample receipt, and testing. On the job training will be provided and the opportunity to grow into more ...

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Lab Assistant information

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Portland, ME 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 Portland, ME? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Portland, ME are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, ME? For Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, ME look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, ME are:
What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, ME with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Portland, ME as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,100 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Lab Assistant | Per-Diem | South Portland, ME

Lab Assistant | Per-Diem | South Portland, ME

InterMed

South Portland, ME

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

InterMed (Maine) rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Lab Assistant puts patients at ease with a pleasant and professional manner while obtaining specimens for lab processing.  He/she is responsible for preparing specimens for transport to the main laboratory and the reference laboratories and performing proper requisition processes within EMR and LIS.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Understands all specimen requirements and can perform phlebotomy for both adult patients and pediatric patients
  • Always identify patients with two unique identifiers
  • Understands LIS and EMR systems to accession and process all lab samples, including outside orders
    • Transfer orders from EMR to LIS and enter appropriate information
  • Knows and instructs patients on proper procedure for urine/stool/sputum collection
  • Knows what vacutainer tubes to draw for which tests and ensures that all specimens are labeled properly
  • Checks send-out log to be sure all reports have been received, call performing lab if copies of report still pending
  • Ensures all supply levels are maintained and adequate
    • Orders supplies as instructed by supervisor
  • Performs other clinical or administrative office tasks as necessary (if applicable to site)
  • Prepares samples for transport and knows all specimen processing procedures
  • Adheres to site-specific workflows
  • Keeps work area clean, stocked and organized
  • Packages Biohazardous Waste to prepare for scheduled pick up
  • Understands and can perform all POCT including Quick Strep, Urine hCG, Urine Dip, Quick Flu, Occult Blood, and Urine Drug Screen
    • Perform and document QC when necessary
  • Knows and abides by personnel policies and procedures
  • Maintains excellent customer service with patients, staff, and physicians
  • Assists in training new employees as directed
  • Work on quality improvement initiatives with manager, as directed
  • Follows all OSHA and CLIA regulations as applied to InterMed
    • Performs and documents on OSHA Log:
  1. Disinfect counters with 10% bleach daily
  2. Disinfect phlebotomy chairs/area with 10% bleach daily
  3. Check surrounding offices for samples daily
  4. Empty Confidential Trash daily
  5. Clean Centrifuge weekly
  6. Disinfect large waste buckets weekly
  7. Change sharps containers as needed
  8. Monitor and document temperatures
  • As directed, consistently performs all the following tasks:
    • “Scanned Lab Composite” workflow daily
    • Scrub lab schedules to check for orders ahead of appointment times
    • Perform “no-show” workflow from lab schedules
    • Ability to work in the processing area independently and without performance concerns
    • Audits the POCT office logs
  • If applicable, assists the technologists in the following areas:
    • Understands and can plant all in-house cultures, including urine cultures, strep cultures (throat and vaginal)
    • Builds and checks Micro work lists for Urine Cultures, Strep Cultures, and Vaginal Cultures
  • Disassembles and cleans urinalysis analyzer daily
  • Orders processing supplies as needed from various vendors and companies
    • Processing and distributing sample to the appropriate performing departments
    • Performing QC on waived platforms
    • Processing urine samples on the automated platform and prepare for microscopic examination
    • Plating microbiology cultures
    • Capping and storing samples
    • Processing Urgent Care samples STAT
    • Any additional projects within the scope of position, as directed

 

JOB RESPONSIBILTIES:

         

  • Successful completion of a phlebotomy or lab assistant training course required
  • 1 year of phlebotomy experience with all types of patients and processing preferred
  • Excellent professional judgment, phone skills and decision-making ability
  • Must be able to implement universal precautions always
  • Ability to calm anxious patients
  • Teamwork and cooperation
  • Ability to multi-task with little to no guidance
  • Concern for order, quality, and accuracy
  • Ability to prioritize, organize and plan work independently
  • Flexible as assignments and locations change
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Perform the N-95 Fit testing, unless medically excused

 

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