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Lab Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Talent4Health

Radiology - Cath Lab Tech

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.1K/wk

Prepare the cardiac catheterization lab and ensure all equipment is functional and sterilized. Assist cardiologists during invasive procedures such as coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary ...

LanceSoft

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.4K - $3.2K/wk

LanceSoft is seeking a travel Cath Lab Technologist for a travel job in Portland, Oregon ... Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing ...

Immunology Consultants Laboratory, Inc.

Be Seen First

Lab Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

We are looking for a Lab Technician - AP Lab to join our Portland, OR, location. Established in 1975, Immunology Consultants Laboratory, Inc. (ICL) is a local, family-owned lab that has grown from R& ...

Urgent

Panasonic

Lab Technician IV

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$29 - $45/hr

This role owns lab setup and upkeep, coordinates equipment procurement and facilities changes, and supports hands-on electronics builds/modifications while administering lab computing and network ...

ProKatchers

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.4K - $3.2K/wk

... and ready. * Assist cardiologists during procedures by operating imaging equipment, passing ... Cath Lab Technologist About ProKatchers Founded in 2016, ProKatchers Inc. is a JCC-certified ...

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Lab Assistant information

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$10

$21

$31

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.

Specimen Processing Specialist

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview
OHSU is Oregon's only public academic health center. We are a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and southwest Washington. We are an institution of higher learning, with schools of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry and public health - and with a network of campuses and partners throughout Oregon. We are a national research hub, with thousands of scientists developing lifesaving therapies and deeper understanding. We are a statewide economic engine and Portland's largest employer. And as a public organization, we provide services for the most vulnerable Oregonians, and outreach to improve health in communities across the state.
The purpose of this position is to provide technical support for patient care activities in the laboratory by
performing data entry, billing, client services, sample processing, resulting, filing, and laboratory procedures. The major duty is to prepare patient specimens for laboratory testing, which includes determining specimen acceptability, answering telephone inquires, and multi-tasking while working quickly and accurately. The person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude which will best serve the clients of the department, OHSU, and outside the organization.
Function/Duties of Position
Specimen receipt and processing
  • Loads specimens onto automation line for processing.
  • Centrifuges samples and transfers to appropriately labeled containers.
  • Accurately measures specimens, records volumes, and determines if sample quality and quantity is sufficient for testing.
  • Directs samples to technologists and testing areas either manually or using the automation lines, or stores samples for future testing.
  • Makes slides for staining.
  • Notifies technologists or appropriate lab when priority work is received.
  • Determines acceptability of specimens received and calls ward or physician to clarify orders or advise of unacceptable samples.
Performs data entry for samples received for testing
  • Checks accuracy of specimens, requisitions, labels.
  • Performs computer entry in Epic HIS system.
  • Handles and processes samples for many labs on and off campus.
  • Accurately labels samples, requisitions, and appropriate specimen containers.
  • Is responsible to see that all samples are logged in to the lab and triaged in a timely manner.
Coordinates and prepares samples to be shipped to outside labs for patient care and drug study testing
  • Enters test requests into dedicated referral lab computer.
  • Fills out paperwork carefully and thoroughly to ensure accurate testing.
  • Packs infectious shipping samples per IATA standards.
  • Utilizes electronic systems provided by referral labs to transmit orders
Other Duties as Assigned
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma and at least two years of college lab science courses, plus one year of college math or computer courses OR
  • High school diploma and two years of clinical lab experience OR
  • High school diploma and successful completion of a Lab Assistant Training program including clinical lab experience
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Two years in a clinical laboratory including sample receipt, sample processing, customer service, multi-line phone use.
  • Training or experience demonstrating proficiency with healthcare/lab information systems.

Additional Details
Positions in the laboratory and environments may require working flexible schedules including nights
weekends and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation; working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature fluctuations in building.
Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

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