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Lab Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Nova Analytic Labs

Lab Technologist

Portland, ME

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 ...

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 ...

Nova Analytic Labs LLC

Lab Technologist

Portland, ME

$20 - $24/hr

... 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 experienced roles is highly encouraged. The ...

Maine Medical Center

Specimen Processor

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Technical training as a Medical Lab Assistant preferred. * Additional Skills/Requirements Required: N/A * Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A Hiring Scam Alert MaineHealth will never ...

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Lab Assistant information

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,100 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Radiographer/Lab Assistant - Windham

Radiographer/Lab Assistant - Windham

Northern Light Health

Windham, ME • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Northern Light Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 157 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

593rd of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Northern Light Mercy Hospital
Department: Imaging - Off-site
Position is located: Mercy Windham
Work Type: Full Time
Hours Per Week: 30.00
Work Schedule: Variable
*Sign On Bonus for Eligible Candidates*
Summary:
Under the supervision of the State Street Radiology Supervisor and/or FRH Radiology Supervisor with oversight supervision/competency assessment of laboratory duties by laboratory management, the Radiologic Technologist administers roentgen rays to neonatal through geriatric patients for diagnostic purposes. Laboratory Assistant responsibilities will include performing phlebotomy functions on all patient populations. The incumbent performs duties and tasks in accordance with performance standards established for the job. The incumbent may have access to highly confidential patient, employee and/or Organizational proprietary information, and must handle and protect the information in accordance with hospital and system policies, HIPAA requirements and the highest level of ethical standards. The incumbent is responsible for reporting all security events, potential events, or other security risks to the organization. The incumbent is responsible for participation in and completion of all patient safety initiatives appropriate to the position. Primary emphasis is on direct patient care with minimization of adverse patient reactions. In addition, the incumbent conducts all job responsibilities according to the Mission and Values of the Hospital.
Responsibilities:
  • Demonstrates mastery of technical skills needed to operate all equipment and to perform all exams for all ages.
  • Participates in QA program and meets QA department standards.
  • Demonstrates the ability to perform exams in variable environments.
  • Works with and instructs student technologists in a positive manner.
  • "0"patient identification errors that result in wrong patient processing.
  • "0"documented variances from Standard Precautions.
  • "0"documented variances from Mandatory Safe Work Practices.
  • Ten or fewer avoidable redraws.
  • Technique adjusted for patient age.
  • Minimum blood volume depletion on pediatric and geriatric patients.
  • Provides instruction and assistance to patients and other care givers regarding proper collection of laboratory specimens.
  • Follows established test protocols and/or Reference Lab Manuals to determine specimen requirements.
  • Provides collection instructions and information to assure adequate specimen quality on submitted specimens.
  • Provides patient assistance when necessitated by patient status.
  • Demonstrates and maintains basic centrifuge operational skills.
  • Distributes processed specimens to appropriate workstations based on test orders.
  • Performs work with thoroughness and timeliness while maintaining department standards for safety, quality, and quantity.
  • Completes scheduled work within shift.
  • Displays flexibility when caseload changes.
  • Assures that all necessary documentation and charges are completed.
  • Coordinates the necessary documentation/personnel and resources to complete procedure in a timely manner.
  • Continually strives to improve and streamline the exam processes
  • Demonstrates the ability to responsibly develop and maintain positive relationships with manager, co-workers, and patients.
  • Acts in a professional manner.
  • Supports and assists others during stressful situations
  • Manages stressful situations without negatively affecting patients and co-workers.
  • Communicates with the floor supervisor to ensure smooth workflow and priorities.
  • Communicates lab or lab sample issues with laboratory management.
  • Maintains an awareness of how behavior impacts others and how decisions impact others both within the department and hospital-wide.
  • Displays open attitude to feedback.
  • Takes responsibility to deal honestly with conflicts.
  • Actively supports goals and mission of hospital and department.
  • Actively integrates with other department areas to ensure that inter-departmental impact is minimized.
  • Observes hospital, State, and NRC safety requirements.
  • Identifies safety issues.
  • Participates in yearly safety instruction.
  • Instructs others in safety practices.
  • When performing cases in a radiation area, consistently practices appropriate radiation safety by wearing protective devices correctly and wearing/caring fore the personal radiation control badges correctly.
  • Ensures OSHA compliance for area.
  • Follows all applicable lab safety policies.
  • Explains procedures to patient.
  • Provides information to patient.
  • Obtains complete pertinent medical history.
  • Demonstrates the ability to correlate history to appropriate exam.
  • Produces positive outcome based on patient's ability and condition.
  • Improvises appropriate steps/techniques in order to complete exam in non-routine situations.
  • Involves additional support personnel when appropriate.
  • Ensures all staff and physicians working in the area practice aseptic technique.
  • Ensures appropriate sample technique and preparation.
  • Ability to recognize that a problem exists and can assess situation for appropriate action.
  • Ensures that the equipment and room are maintained in a neat and orderly condition.
  • Maintains the appropriate stocking level of supplies and linens without overstocking or understocking resulting in rush orders.
  • Maintains a clean room with properly stored equipment, such as IV poles, monitors, equipment tables, sponges, etc.
  • Performs additional duties as required or assigned.

Other Information:
  • Licensed as Radiologic Technologist Required.

Competencies and Skills
  • Behaves with Integrity and Builds Trust: Acts consistently in line with the core values, commitments and rules of conduct. Leads by example and tells the truth. Does what they say they will, when and how they say they will, or communicates an alternate plan.
  • Cultivates Respect: Treats others fairly, embraces and values differences, and contributes to a culture of belonging, empowerment, and cooperation.
  • Fosters Accountability: Creates and participates in a work environment where people hold themselves and others accountable for processes, results and behaviors. Takes appropriate ownership not only of successes but also mistakes and works to correct them in a timely manner. Demonstrates understanding that we all work as a team and the quality and timeliness of work impacts everyone involved.
  • Practices Compassion: Exhibits genuine care for people and is available and ready to help; displays a deep awareness of and strong willingness to relieve the suffering of others.

Credentials
  • Required Radiologic Tech-Radiographer

Education
  • Required No Minimum Requirement

Working Conditions
  • Potential exposure to abusive and/or aggressive people.
  • Potential exposure to diseases or infections.
  • Potential exposure to hazardous materials.
  • Potential exposure to noise levels being uncomfortable.
  • Potential exposure to noxious odors.
  • Potential exposure to very hot or cold temperatures.
  • Work with computers, typing, reading or writing.
  • Lifting, moving and loading 20 to 30 pounds.
  • Prolonged periods of sitting.

Northern Light Mercy Hospital is a nonprofit acute care hospital in Portland, Maine, and a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. Our work is grounded in compassion, dignity, and service, with a commitment to caring for every member of our community, especially those most in need. At Mercy, people come to work knowing their role matters. Whether at the bedside, in support services, administration, or clinical care, every team member contributes to a culture built on respect, collaboration, and purpose.
We provide a broad range of medical and surgical services, along with multiple primary and specialty care offerings and community-based programs that extend our impact beyond the hospital walls. As a member of Northern Light Health, an integrated statewide health delivery system, employees benefit from the stability, resource, and career pathways of a larger organization while working in a hospital that feels personal and connected. Team members have opportunities to grow professionally, explore new roles, and build long-term careers in an environment focused on quality, innovation, and the well-being of our workforce.
Mercy Hospital is located in Portland, Maine's largest and most vibrant city, offering an exceptional quality of life that attracts people from across the country. Portland is nationally recognized for its food scene, arts and culture, vibrant neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. Within minutes of the city, you can reach beaches, islands, lakes, and mountain trails, with easy access to hiking, skiing, boating, and cycling. The region also offers excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy travel connections through Portland International Jetport and nearby rail service to Boston. Southern Maine blends career opportunity with a lifestyle centered on balance, outdoor recreation, and coastal living, making it an ideal place to live and build a career.
Questions? Contact Talent Acquisition:
phone: 207-973-7100
email: talentacquisition@northernlight.org
Portland, Maine, Catholic, Sisters of Mercy, Level 2 NeoNatal Nursery

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