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Lab Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Phenom People

Central Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

Central Lab Assistant This position is eligible for a $5,000 hiring bonus! At WHA, we're a team, passionate about humanizing healthcare. We're inspired by the diverse stories, strength and resilience ...

University Of Oregon

Innovation Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$20.19 - $30.11/hr

Innovation Lab Assistant Apply now Job no: 536911 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Portland, OR Categories: Athletics, Business Administration/Management, Education Department: Lundquist College ...

Actalent

Lab Assistant III

Happy Valley, OR

$20 - $23.50/hr

Lab Assistant III This Lab Assistant III role supports a high-volume, production-based clinical laboratory by performing essential specimen processing and data entry tasks that directly contribute to ...

New

Labcorp

Specialty Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

LabCorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team in Portland, OR. Work Schedule: 1st Shift PRN Job Responsibilities * Receive and sort clinical lab specimens * Prepare specimens for testing and ...

Labcorp

Specialty Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

LabCorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team in Portland, OR. Work Schedule: 1st Shift PRN Job Responsibilities * Receive and sort clinical lab specimens * Prepare specimens for testing and ...

Labcorp

Specialty Lab Assistant

Portland, OR

LabCorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team in Portland, OR. Work Schedule: 1st Shift PRN Job Responsibilities * Receive and sort clinical lab specimens * Prepare specimens for testing and ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Lab Assistant III

Portland, OR · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

Previous medical, lab, or production experience is preferred. * Comfortability with handling biological specimens. * Ability to accurately identify specimens. * Basic computer knowledge and data ...

Actalent

Laboratory Assistant

Happy Valley, OR

$20 - $23.50/hr

Lab Assistant III This Lab Assistant III role supports a high-volume, production-based clinical laboratory by performing essential specimen processing and data entry tasks that directly contribute to ...

New

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Lab Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Portland, OR is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.47 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.
More about Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,661 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Central Lab Assistant

Phenom People

Portland, OR • On-site

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Central Lab Assistant

This position is eligible for a $5,000 hiring bonus!

At WHA, we're a team, passionate about humanizing healthcare. We're inspired by the diverse stories, strength and resilience of our patients and the unique choices they make in pursuing health for themselves and their families. We envision a world where every person has the opportunity to achieve their optimal health and we're here to support that journey with personalized, culturally competent care and knowledge.

The Central Lab Assistant is responsible for providing technical and administrative support for laboratory operations in our Central Lab. They assist with quality control by ensuring correct specimen collection requirements, specimen stability limitations, distribution to testing departments, and document management in the Central Lab. They also assist in coordinating communications and ensure Central Lab workflows and processes operate efficiently and effectively.

This is a Monday-Friday, 40 hour/week position with an 8:00am to 4:30pm schedule.

Duties

  • Acts as a resource for site laboratory staff by answering questions, providing instruction, and giving feedback when needed; adheres to quality standards and provides excellent customer service to both internal and external customers.
  • Answers Central Lab phones, monitors incoming faxes and mail.
  • Assists Central Lab staff, site lab staff, and WHA providers with a positive and helpful attitude and promotes teamwork within WHA by fostering a spirit of cooperation.
  • Works with Central Lab staff, Lab Manager, and WHA Purchasing to monitor and maintain laboratory inventory supply, place weekly supply orders, monitor supply chain issues, and anticipate future inventory change/needs.
  • Processes and distributes all incoming lab specimens in the Central Lab for internal testing and reference lab testing.
  • Follows QI guidelines, OSHA, and CLIA requirements, company and department guidelines, policies, procedures, and protocols.
  • Assists with quality control by ensuring correct specimen collection requirements, specimen stability limitations, distribution to testing departments, and document management in the Central Lab.
  • Collaborates with Lab Manager to identify and optimize workflows at WHA site labs.
  • Takes responsibility for and demonstrates safe work practices. Utilizes Universal Precautions in job duties.
  • Maintains regular and predictable attendance.
  • Attends WHA and Central Lab meetings.
  • Maintains WHA confidentiality standards.
  • Models the Values Statement and The Patient Experience of WHA.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Certification from an accredited phlebotomy program required.
  • Prior experience with or the ability to learn practice management and laboratory software required.
  • Previous medical assisting, laboratory, or phlebotomy work experience in a medical group setting preferred.
  • Keyboarding skills and basic computer proficiency.
  • Familiar with OSHA regulations preferred.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology and coding, including ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS preferred.
  • Knowledge of basic specimen collection, selection, handling and storage activities.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a fast paced environment and effectively work with others.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow through in great detail with a high level of accuracy.
  • Ability to demonstrated The Values Statement and The Patient Experience of WHA.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job.

Women's Healthcare Associates, LLC is an equal opportunity employer.

Oregon employers are required by a number of state and federal agencies to display a variety of workplace notices and posters, including:

Federal Family and Medical Leave Act

Oregon Family Leave Act

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