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Lab Assistant Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Assistant Lead

Silverdale, WA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

As a Lab Assistant Lead, you will play a crucial role in solving diagnostic mysteries, bringing us one step closer to effectively treating patient illnesses and injuries. Every day you will utilize ...

Lead Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist United WestLabs, Inc. ("UWL") is a health care service company that implements and manages turn-key hospital-based, laboratory outreach Programs. UWL partners with ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Renton, WA salary details

$11

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Renton, WA is $22.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $25.96 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Renton, WA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Renton, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Renton, WA? For Lab Assistant jobs in Renton, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Renton, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Renton, WA are:
What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Renton, WA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Renton, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,370 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant Technical

St Michael Medical Center

Silverdale, WA • On-site

$23.35 - $32.99/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As a Laboratory Assistant (Technical), you will play a crucial role in primarily working with the lab technical departments. Assisting with technical procedures within regulatory guidelines. Assists with telephone calls and other departmental clerical duties. If allowed by local and state regulations, may perform CLIA-waived and moderate complex testing as necessary for the dept organization. May also perform phlebotomy support.


Every day you will utilize your expertise and our advanced technology to precisely assist with technical procedures within regulatory guidelines.


To be successful in this role, you will possess a foundational understanding of laboratory procedures, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, and maintain an eager commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

  • Practices positive patient identification at all times, in all job functions.
  • Performs department specimen intake, processing and organization for the technical testing area.
  • Performs department support functions, ie culture plating, histology staining, specimen loading on instruments depending upon department needs and organization.
  • Reviews pending test lists to assist with department turnaround time.
  • Assists in solving problems, investigates specimen issues and customer inquiries. Provides information regarding specimen and testing status as appropriate.
  • Monitors and stocks department supplies and reagents. Logs reagents and supplies, following department protocols.
Job Requirements

Required

  • High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or
  • High School GED General Studies, upon hire and
  • Certificate Other Lab Assistant Program - upon hire 

Preferred

  • 6 months experience in an acute care facility, upon hire and
  • Certificate Other Phlebotomy program, upon hire
Where You'll Work

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.
Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.
Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.
We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.

Qualifications:

Required

  • High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or
  • High School GED General Studies, upon hire and
  • Certificate Other Lab Assistant Program - upon hire 

Preferred

  • 6 months experience in an acute care facility, upon hire and
  • Certificate Other Phlebotomy program, upon hire
Employment Type: Full Time