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Lab Assistant Jobs in Zachary, LA (NOW HIRING)

FMOLHS

Lab POCT Coordinator

Baton Rouge, LA

This position is responsible lab point of care (POC) testing activities in physician clinics and to ... Assess POCT needs to determine POCT menu. e. Assist with ordering POCT supplies and staging ...

Louisiana State University

WAE - Martin Lab

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Temporary The person who fills this position will assist in all lab duties including, but not limited to conducting study procedures and participant visits, collecting sorting and analyzing study ...

FMOLHS

Medical Laboratory Assistant 1

Baton Rouge, LA

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

The Medical Laboratory Assistant is responsible for up-front specimen handling and facilitating the workflow in and out of the laboratory. Assists laboratory personnel with laboratory procedures, may ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Zachary, LA salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Zachary, LA is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $18.41 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.

Is it hard to become a lab assistant?

Becoming a lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with some knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in relevant fields, and strong attention to detail and organizational skills are important for success in the role.

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 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 in safety or specific techniques can enhance job prospects.

What are the duties of a lab assistant?

A lab assistant is responsible for preparing laboratory equipment and samples, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, and assisting scientists or technicians with experiments and data collection. They may also handle inventory management, record keeping, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Proficiency with lab tools and attention to detail are essential for this role.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

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 supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

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 Zachary, LA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Zachary, LA are:
What cities near Zachary, LA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Zachary, LA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Zachary, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,563 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Laboratory Technical Assistant

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Us:
At the forefront of medical discovery as it relates to understanding the causes of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia, Pennington Biomedical Research Center is a campus of Louisiana State University and conducts basic, clinical and population research. The Center includes Basic Science, Clinical Research, and Population and Public Health, enabling both focused research and translational science. Research at Pennington Biomedical is supported broadly by multiple NIH Research Centers, and includes approximately 65 faculty and 20 postdoctoral fellows who comprise a network of 44 laboratories and 13 highly specialized core service facilities. Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated).
If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.
Job Posting Title:
Laboratory Technical Assistant
Position Type:
Classified
Department:
LSUPBRC CBC - Operations (Rosemary Bolin (00082507))
Work Location:
LSU - Pennington Biomedical
Pay Grade:
Job Description:
Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a world-renowned academic research institute of Louisiana State University, Laboratory Technical Assistant in Cores.
This is a classified position, and rules of the position are governed by State Civil Service.
An ideal candidate should possess the following competencies:
Displaying Expertise: The ability to demonstrate specialized knowledge, skills, and experience to apply subject-matter expertise in diverse and evolving contexts.
Following Policies and Procedures: The ability to follow, reinforce, adapt, or develop policies and procedures to maintain compliance with federal and state legal requirements, State Civil Service rules, and organizational policies.
Thinking Strategically: The ability to anticipate trends, understand context, and align actions with long-term priorities.
Working Safely: The ability to maintain a safe work environment by following established safety rules, procedures, and practices.
Minimum Qualifications
Laboratory Technical Assistant 1:
No experience or training required.
Laboratory Technical Assistant 2:
Every six semester hours earned from an accredited college or university in any of the biological, physical, chemical, or agricultural sciences will substitute for one year of the required experience.
Laboratory Technical Assistant 3:
Two years of experience as a phlebotomist, EKG/ECG technician, pulmonary technician, or respiratory care technician, or in the care, preparation or handling of laboratory specimens, animals, or cadavers; OR
An associate's degree in medical technology, nursing, clinical laboratory science, or a biological, physical, or chemical science; OR
Certification as an Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science.
EXPERIENCE SUBSTITUTION for Laboratory Technical Assistant 3:
Every six semester hours earned from an accredited college or university in any of the biological, physical, chemical, or agricultural sciences will substitute for one year of the required experience.
Job Specifications
The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here 1, 2, 3 .
Job Duties
  • Provides daily husbandry and care for research animals by feeding, watering, monitoring health, administering basic treatments, and maintaining animal records.
  • Monitors animal health and facility conditions to ensure animal welfare, environmental standards, and compliance with biosafety protocols.
  • Oversees quarantine and biosecurity activities to support animal receiving, disease prevention, and colony health.
  • Maintains animal census, breeding, and production records using computerized animal management systems.
  • Performs cleaning, sanitation, and sterilization duties to maintain a safe and compliant research environment.
  • Follows established policies, procedures, and safety standards to ensure compliance with animal care regulations and workplace requirements.

Position-Specific Details
Appointment Type: Probational
Career Progression: This position participates in a Career Progression Group.
Work Schedule: Work hours are 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Monday - Friday. Some weekend coverage.
Compensation: The salary offered will be determined based on qualifications and experience. The approved hiring range is $11.67 - $18.72.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center seeks to recruit a highly productive workforce with a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives and will provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and prospective employees. Employment decisions shall be based strictly on merit and without regard to religious or political beliefs, sex, race, or any other non-merit factor.
Additional Job Description:
Competencies:
None
Special Instructions:
Laboratory Technical Assistant
Posting Date:
July 24, 2026
Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):
August 7, 2026
Additional Position Information:
Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For more information, visit PBRC.
Questions regarding career opportunities at Pennington Biomedical should be sent to hrm@pbrc.edu.
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - Pennington Biomedical Research Center offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
Essential Position (Y/N):
Pennington Biomedical Research Center/LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Contact Information:
Questions or concerns can be directed to PBRC Human Resources at 225-763-2776 or hrm@pbrc.edu.

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