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Lab Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Northern Light Health

Medical Assistant I

Portland, ME · On-site

$23 - $30.51/hr

The Medical Assistant works in collaboration with all members of the care team providing high ... Report lab and diagnostic results per guidelines * Documentation of patient encounters (including ...

Northern Light Health

Medical Assistant I

Portland, ME · On-site

$23 - $30.51/hr

The Medical Assistant works in collaboration with all members of the care team providing high ... Report lab and diagnostic results per guidelines * Documentation of patient encounters (including ...

Northern Light Health

Medical Assistant I

Falmouth, ME · On-site

$22 - $30.51/hr

The Medical Assistant works in collaboration with all members of the care team providing high ... Report lab and diagnostic results per guidelines * Documentation of patient encounters (including ...

baymark

Certified Medical Assistant

Portland, ME · On-site

$20 - $20.51/hr

File lab results into appropriate binders and distribute lab results to counselors * Attend weekly ... Medical Assistant must be certified or registered * Phlebotomy is involved in the position and is a ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Portland, ME salary details

$10

$20

$30

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 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.

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 supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Temporary, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,100 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Medical Assistant I

Northern Light Health

Portland, ME • On-site

$23 - $30.51/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Northern Light Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

531st of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The compensation range listed reflects the range Northern Light Health anticipates relying on in setting the wages for the position. The range may not necessarily include all additional compensation elements available, such as differentials, incentive programs and benefits.
Northern Light Mercy Hospital
Department: Ear Nose and Throat Clinic
Position is located: Mercy Medical Office Building
Work Type: Full Time
Hours Per Week: 40.00
Work Schedule: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Exempt: No
Summary:
The Medical Assistant works in collaboration with all members of the care team providing high quality compassionate care consistent with the Mission and Values of Northern Light Health. This is accomplished by being primarily responsible for ensuring efficient patient flow, working to actively enhance patient relationships and loyalty, pre-planning for patient visits, managing visit cycle time, office workflows, and patient access (phone, scheduling), assisting assigned provider and care team with rooming and patient care procedures, including electronic and written documentation, and coordinating patient activities that support managing the targeted population's health. The incumbent performs duties and tasks in accordance with standards established for the job. The incumbent may have access to highly confidential patient, employee and/or hospital 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, and conducts all job responsibilities according to the Mission and Values of Hospital.
Responsibilities:
  • Identify necessary equipment and materials for patient visits
  • Room patients in accordance with established guidelines and visit purpose/types (including but not limited to: Document chief complaint; Document accurate vital signs; Confirm med list with patient; Confirm pharmacy; Document smoking status; Document depression screening; Document fall risk; Assess and administer appropriate immunizations.
  • Communicates pertinent patient medical information and findings in a timely manner to the patient and/or appropriate staff person in a respectful clear, concise manner
  • Accurately performs office procedures
  • Schedule patient appointments
  • Proper preparation of lab specimens
  • Set up prescription refill per guidelines
  • Report lab and diagnostic results per guidelines
  • Documentation of patient encounters (including face to face, phone and patient portal) into multiple systems, including EMR, to comply with organizational initiatives including: PCMH, Meaningful Use, and the Beacon ACO measures.
  • Assist and/or chaperone patient procedures
  • Manage provider paper documents as applicable
  • Respond to patient phone calls in a timely manner
  • Prepare and conduct EKGs, eye and auditory screening, phlebotomy and ear lavage
  • Assist with casting and splinting
  • Prepare patient health information via electronic records (pre-visit prep) for all scheduled appointments
  • Perform and document immunizations (including IMMPACT as applicable) and injections
  • Facilitates patient-centered visit by ensuring proper screening, documentation, and/or testing has been completed
  • Ensures all consults and charts are prepared or scanned, downloaded and communicated in preparation for patient contact
  • With provider supervision, work in provider tasks, review and assist in other population health management functions
  • Coordinates and manages provider's tasks activity (i.e., lab result reporting, phone calls, order entry, Rx processing, and outreach efforts) following standard processes and guidelines in oversight of meeting provider and patient needs
  • Collect clinical information and communicates to provider
  • Performs direct patient care services in accordance with clinical guidelines in a patient-centered manner.
  • Ensure provider schedule meets the needs of patients (visit and non-visit)
  • Ensures patients are roomed and ready for provider within 7 minutes of appointment time
  • Participates in daily huddles and weekly team meetings to improve workflows and contribute to improving patient population outcomes.
  • Performs and documents necessary ancillary tests such as EKGs, PFTs, Peak Flow Rates, Rapid Strep, HCG's, Glucose Checks, and FOBT's. May perform various CLIA waived lab tests as ordered by provider. Competent in following process of recording waived testing quality requirements. Performs and documents lab specimen collection/processing, eye screening and audiology screening in accordance with current guidelines and policies. (If applicable)
  • Administer immunizations and medications in accordance with current guidelines ensuring level and scope of practice standards. (If applicable)
  • Ensure exam rooms are prepared for patient visits, including equipment operability, supply inventory, and utilizing standard infection control guides and stocking procedures
  • Ensure patient care equipment operates in accordance with quality standards
  • Provides patient education in support of patient visit and ongoing care as directed by provider.
  • Assist with orientation and training of new staff members
  • Maintain clinical/technical skills and knowledge through ongoing development and continuing education.
  • Demonstrates age-specific competencies: communicate with each patient in a way that is appropriate to his or her particular age, capabilities or disabilities, temporary impairments, emotions, stresses, culture, and individual station
  • Set up follow up letters and reminders for service
  • All other duties as assigned

Other Information:
  • BLS for Healthcare professional certification is required at time of hire

Competencies and Skills
  • Demonstrates Emotional Intelligence: Exhibits a high level of self-awareness, self-management, other awareness and relationship management. Conducts themselves in an empathic, appropriate way, with a sense of humor and stimulates a collaborative work environment. Is respectful of the attitudes, feelings, or circumstances of others and aware of the influence of their own behavior on them. Is aware of relevant social, political, system, and professional trends and developments and uses this information for the organization's benefit.
  • Effectively Communicates: Listens, speaks and writes appropriately, using clear language. Communication methods are fitting to the message(s), audience, and situation and follow-ups are regular and timely. Shows that important (non-) verbal information is absorbed and understood and asks further questions to clarify when necessary. Expresses ideas and views clearly to others and has ability to adjust use of language to the audiences' level.
  • 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.

Education
  • Required High School Diploma/General Educational Development (GED) • Associates Degree strongly preferred • Completion of medical assistant program enabling incumbent the ability to sit for Medical Assistant certification exam within 6 months of hire, or minimum of four years of relevant work experience and certification as a medical assistant

Working Conditions
  • Potential exposure to abusive and/or aggressive people.
  • Potential exposure to diseases or infections.
  • 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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