ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$15.53/hr

Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00 AM to 9:30 AM Department: Auto Chem Tech Operations Support Are you intrigued by the science of the human body? Curious about state-of-the-art ...

Synectics Inc

Lab Assistant

Clifton, NJ

$17.20 - $22/hr

* Perform various routine laboratory functions in a precise and accurate fashion to assist the laboratory professional staff and to facilitate production. * Sorting, and receiving specimens in the ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Lab Assistant

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Medical assistant training helpful. Math and science courses preferred. Work Experience: * None required. Special Requirements: * Must have the ability to establish work priorities and to handle ...

Lancesoft

Lab Assistant - 1st shift

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$17.20 - $22/hr

Lab Assistant Location: Clifton NJ 07012 Duration: 5/12/2026 - 8/31/2026 Shift/Time Zone: 10pm-6: 30am OB Summary: * Perform the daily activities as described below. * Basic Purpose: Perform various ...

Msk

Medical Lab Assistant - Cytology Lab

New York, NY · On-site

$23.49 - $32.46/hr

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is seeking a Medical Lab Assistant for the Cytology Lab. The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Lab Assistant information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$10

$20

$30

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Rutherford, NJ is $20.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.51 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 job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,932 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Lab Assistant I

Lab Assistant I

Quest Diagnostics

Clifton, NJ • On-site

$15.53/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Job Description
Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Department: Auto Chem Tech Operations Support
Are you intrigued by the science of the human body? Curious about state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation? Looking to join a Fortune 500 company leading the world in providing diagnostic information services? Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to experienced, with a wide range of benefits and training!
Pay range: $17.20 - $24.08 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Responsibilities
Job Responsibilities:
  • Provides a wide variety of support for assigned lab department.
  • Picks up samples from accessioning and sorts samples into appropriate racks.
  • Answers phone and directs calls appropriately
  • Unpacks and stores reagents and supplies
  • Inventories and orders warehouse supply items
  • Sorts samples and distributes them to the appropriate setup hood. Manages specimen library within established time frames.
  • Performs waived tests under supervision
  • All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education:
High School Diploma or Equivalent (Required)
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

Apply