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Lab Assistant Jobs in Schenectady, NY (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant

Albany, NY

$18/hr

  • Retirement

The Laboratory Assistant's role is to perform operations which aid in maximizing the research ... Wipe down lab benches, lab surfaces, and lab shelving, sweep and mop lab floors in accordance with ...

Lab Assistant

Albany, NY · On-site

$18/hr

  • Retirement

The Laboratory Assistant's role is to perform operations which aid in maximizing the research ... Wipe down lab benches, lab surfaces, and lab shelving, sweep and mop lab floors in accordance with ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Schenectady, NY salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Schenectady, NY is $19.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.31 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Schenectady, NY?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Schenectady, NY are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Schenectady, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Schenectady, NY are:

What cities near Schenectady, NY are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Schenectady, NY with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Schenectady, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,746 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

$18/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Laboratory Assistant in Albany, NY

Build your future at Curia, where our work has the power to save lives.

The Laboratory Assistant's role is to perform operations which aid in maximizing the research productivity of the laboratory staff. Day-to-day functions include cleaning chemistry glassware, laboratory and supply areas, as well as maintaining and updating the chemical inventory.

Curia is a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) with over 30 years of experience partnering with pharmaceutical and biotech companies to provide life-saving treatments to patients. At Curia, we are on a mission to advance our customers' therapies from curiosity to cure and ultimately to improve patients' lives.

We proudly offer

  • Generous benefit options (eligible first day of employment) 
  • Paid training, vacation and holidays (vacation accrual begins on first day of employment)
  • Career advancement opportunities 
  • Education reimbursement
  • 401K program with matching contributions
  • Learning platform
  • And more!

Responsibilities

  • Maintain the Laboratory in compliance with appropriate Standard Operating Procedures
  • Assist scientists with operations involving some technical manipulations, if appropriate
  • Maintain/update chemical inventory
  • Maintain the laboratory equipment in a clean, organized and orderly manner. Wash, sterilize, clean, dry, and put away all laboratory glassware in pre-assigned locations as directed by the scientific staff
  • Keep laboratory clean and organized, with particular emphasis to visits from customers and other guests. Keep sink area and personal workspace clean and organized
  • Wipe down lab benches, lab surfaces, and lab shelving, sweep and mop lab floors in accordance with a maintenance schedule, appropriate SOPs, and on an as needed basis
  • Maintain stock of sterilized labware in designated cabinets
  • Refill solvent bottles, prepare aqueous and solvent solutions as needed or requested
  • Prepare and crush empty solvent containers as needed following established procedures and safety protocol
  • Stock materials and supplies in supply and storage areas, and keep those areas organized and clean
  • Maintain a professional demeanor
  • Conduct laboratory operations in a safe and responsible manner. Maintain familiarity with the Chemical Hygiene Plan. Exhibit safety awareness and safe work practices
  • Follow responsible actions regarding chemical disposal. Maintain compliance with all regulations at the federal, state, and local levels
  • Participate in self-development activities and training of others
  • Recommend and implement methods to increase the quality of products and/or services

Qualifications

  • High school education or equivalent
  • Minimum 0-1 years' experience in a laboratory

Other Qualifications

  • Must pass a background check
  • Must pass a drug screen
  • May be required to pass Occupational Health Screening

Preferred

  • Associate's Degree in Chemistry or related field
  • GMP laboratory experience 

Pay Range: $18/hr.

Education, experience, location and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.

We do not accept unsolicited assistance from any headhunters or recruitment firms for any of our job openings. All resumes or profiles submitted by search firms to any employee at Curia, in any form without a valid, signed search agreement by an authorized signatory in place for the specific position, approved by Talent Acquisition, will be deemed the sole property of Curia. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Curia because of the unsolicited referral.

All interested applicants must apply online. Please be aware of scammers. Curia will only send offer letters and requests for sensitive personal information from a curiaglobal.com email address. Curia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. Curia is an E-Verify employer.

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