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Lab Assistant Jobs in Topeka, KS (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Assistant information

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$28

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Topeka, KS is $19.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.73 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.

More about Lab Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Topeka, KS? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Topeka, KS are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Topeka, KS look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Topeka, KS are:
What cities near Topeka, KS are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Topeka, KS with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Topeka, KS as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,632 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant and/or Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant

Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant and/or Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant

Washburn University

Topeka, KS

$25 - $30/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant and/or Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant

Apply now Job no: 496115
Work type: Staff Temporary
Location: Topeka
Categories: Clinical Lab Assistants

Position Title: Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant and/or Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant

Department: WIT-Foundations of Health Care

Advertised Pay: $25.00 LPN credentials, $30.00 RN credentials

Campus Location: Washburn Tech

Application Deadline:  Application review will begin as applications are received and will continue until the position is filled. 

Position Summary: These positions will direct, guide, and evaluate students in the Nurse Aide and Medication Aide program at Washburn University Institute of Technology (Washburn Tech) in the clinical and laboratory setting.
Medication Aide (MA) Clinical Lab Assistants must hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license and are compensated at a higher rate due to their qualification to support both the Nurse Aide and Medication Aide programs.
Nurse Aide (NA) Clinical Lab Assistants must hold a minimum of Licensed Practical Nurse credentials and will be assigned to work exclusively within the Nurse Aide courses.

About Washburn University: Washburn University is a teaching-focused, student-centered, public institution located in the metropolitan setting of Topeka that has earned national recognition for its high-impact programs for first-generation students. Washburn has a student body of just over 7,000 students, a significant and growing number of whom are first-generation and Pell-Grant eligible. The University has created educational pathways for all students to be successful and achieve their educational goals.

Washburn is dedicated to recruiting and retaining a dynamic faculty, staff, and student body and cultivating a robust learning and working environment and curriculum. We employ more than one thousand faculty and staff on our campuses throughout Topeka and strive to offer competitive wages, an excellent benefits program, and a supportive culture and a healthy work/life balance. Washburn seeks to create an environment that reflects our core values for creating positive IMPACT: inclusion, modernization, partnership, achievement, community and transformation. In 2024, Washburn was recognized as one of the best colleges in the nation to work for, according to Great Colleges to Work For program.

Essential Functions:
Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant and/or Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant essential functions:
Prepare for and attend all designated clinical sessions.
Enforce policies for safety and use of personal protective equipment for all individuals in the clinical/lab environment.
Evaluate student work and provide feedback to students.
Act in a manner that promotes collegial relationships and shows respect for students, staff, and colleagues.
Maintain and/or advance training in industry-recognized certifications.
Stay abreast of innovations and developments in the professional field.
Adhere to Washburn policies.
Perform additional job-related duties as assigned or as appropriate.
Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant additional functions:
Work closely with the Nurse Aide and/or Medication Aide class instructor regarding clinical rotations and skill lab check-offs.
Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant additional functions:
Work closely with the Nurse Aide class instructor regarding clinical rotations.

Required Qualifications:
Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant:
Associate Degree in Nursing or higher.
Two years of verifiable full-time experience in clinical practice as a registered nurse.
Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant:
Successful completion of an LPN certificate program.
Two years of verifiable full-time experience in clinical practice as an LPN or RN.
A minimum of 1750 hours of long-term care experience as an LPN or RN.
Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant:
An instructor number for Medication Aide courses or the ability to gain approval as a Medication Aide instructor per criteria established through the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).
An unencumbered Kansas nursing license.
Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant:
An instructor number for Nurse Aide courses or the ability to gain approval as a Nurse Aide instructor per criteria established through the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).
An unencumbered Kansas nursing license.

Preferred Qualifications:
Medication Aide Clinical Lab Assistant:
Bachelor's degree in nursing.
Long-term care experience.
Teaching experience at the post-secondary level.
Approved Home Health Aide (HHA) instructor number from KDADS.
Nurse Aide Clinical Lab Assistant:
Associate's degree in nursing with long-term care experience.
Teaching experience at the post-secondary level.
Approved Home Health Aide (HHA) instructor number from KDADS.

Hourly, Part-time, Temporary, Varies
Background Check Required

Advertised: 16 Jun 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:

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