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Lab Associate Jobs in Melbourne, FL (NOW HIRING)

Health First

Lab Assistant - Pathology

Melbourne, FL · On-site

Blood Bank, Core Laboratory, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular, Lab Supply Management, Lab ... As an organization, it fuels our innovation and connects us closer to our associates, customers ...

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Lab Associate information

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How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Melbourne, FL is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $23.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically a degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient support for scientific research or clinical testing.

How much does a lab assistant earn?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 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 salaries.

What are Lab Associates?

Lab Associates are professionals who assist in the daily operations of laboratories by performing tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They typically work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers and help ensure that laboratory procedures are followed safely and accurately. Lab Associates play a crucial role in supporting research and development, quality control, or diagnostic testing in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the specific lab setting and industry.

Do you need qualifications to be a lab assistant?

Lab associates typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant certifications. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important for the role.

What is the difference between Lab Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications varyAssociate degree or relevant certification; similar educational background
Work EnvironmentHospitals, research labs, clinicsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, data entry, basic testingPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, recording results
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, research, biotechMedical, industrial, research sectors

Both Lab Associates and Laboratory Technicians work in similar environments and often share educational requirements. The main difference lies in specific job duties, with Laboratory Technicians typically performing more complex tests and equipment maintenance. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or experience in high-demand fields such as pharmaceutical or clinical research laboratories. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of expertise. Senior or supervisory roles typically offer higher compensation.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Associate might face during day-to-day work, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring precise documentation, and maintaining equipment. Staying organized by keeping detailed lab notes and using lab management software can help streamline workflow. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is vital to address any issues promptly and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment. Regularly scheduled equipment checks and proactive troubleshooting also contribute to smoother operations.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work under supervision in research or clinical labs and may need knowledge of safety protocols and laboratory techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Melbourne, FL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Melbourne, FL are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Associate jobs in Melbourne, FL? For Lab Associate jobs in Melbourne, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Associate jobs in Melbourne, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Associate jobs in Melbourne, FL are:
What cities near Melbourne, FL are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Melbourne, FL with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Lab Assistant - Pathology

Lab Assistant - Pathology

Health First

Melbourne, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Health First rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 113 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

252nd of 871 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Requirements
POSITION SUMMARY
The Laboratory Assistant position is responsible for providing quality laboratory diagnostic service and
stewardship by performing support functions to ensure optimal support of the laboratory department.
PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES
  1. Support the Laboratory Manager, Supervisor, Technologists, Scientists, Sr. Scientists and Phlebotomists in all phases of laboratory testing, particularly in, but not limited to: processing of lab specimens manually or using automated lab analyzers, labeling, sample management in electronic medical record, quality control, lab supply and inventory management, equipment maintenance, lab customer service support, and other tasks assigned by lab leadership team.
  2. May perform CLIA waived testing. Must meet the minimum qualification set forth by state & CLIA.
  3. May be assigned to support laboratory testing support to one of the following laboratory sections:
  4. Blood Bank, Core Laboratory, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular, Lab Supply Management, Lab Support Services, Pathology, Point of Care, or other sections as determined by laboratory leadership.
  5. Complies with all Health First, HF Laboratory policies and procedures, along with all pertinent federal and state accreditation agency requirements.
  6. Meets goals & shows commitment to continuously improve performance improvement metrics.
  7. Demonstrates the appropriate skill sets as determined by the Annual Competency Assessments.
  8. Availability to meet departmental staffing demands and demonstrates effective time management.
  9. Ability to perform basic computer skills pertinent to job performance.
  10. Monitors data management systems and inventory on a daily basis. Reports variances to the Supervisor.
  11. Assists in cleaning of laboratory equipment, emptying waste, discarding, retrieval & storage of specimens/lab records
  12. Cross trains in other departments within the laboratory or as directed by supervisor.
  13. Complies with the Health First I-Care values and demonstrates effective communication with coworkers and management to include proper escalation when necessary.

Work Experience
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education: High school diploma or GED.
  • Licensure: NA
  • Certification: NA
  • Work Experience: NA
  • Work Experience in lieu of Education: NA
  • Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  1. Must pass color blindness test, proficient in required computer applications.
  2. Work autonomously with minimal supervision.
  3. Strong skills in:
  4. Critical thinking, prioritization and organization of tasks, communication skills (written and verbal in English).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education: Current enrollment or completion of a post-secondary technical or clinical program in biological sciences and/or related field.
  • Licensure:
  • Certification: Clinical Lab Assistant Certification from American Society for Clinical Pathology CLA(ASCP).
  • Work Experience: 1 year in clinical healthcare laboratory or any clinical healthcare setting.
  • Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Laboratory skills (knowledge of pre-analytic, analytic and post analytic phase of diagnostic lab testing).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Able to endure >8 hour workday in periods of high demand.
  • Visual acuity and manual dexterity to perform clinical/technical tasks.
  • Must be able to lift 10-20 lbs. unassisted.
  • Communicating with others to exchange information.
  • Visual acuity and hand-eye coordination to perform tasks.
  • May require travel to various facilities within and beyond county perimeter; may require use of personal vehicle.
  • MENTAL DEMANDS
  • Must be able to function in a highly stressful environment.
  • Ability to deal with multiple problems at the same time and made independent decisions.
  • Able to make independent decisions & interpret regulatory guidelines.

Benefits
ABOUT HEALTH FIRST
At Health First, diversity and inclusion are essential for our continued growth and evolution. Working together, we strive to build and nurture a culture that recognizes, encourages, and respects the diverse voices of our associates. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds create a stronger and more collaborative work environment that delivers better results. As an organization, it fuels our innovation and connects us closer to our associates, customers, and the communities we serve.
Schedule : Full-Time
Shift Times : days
Paygrade : PG-26

What Health First employees say

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About Health First

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Health First has been providing quality care to Brevard county residents for over 23 years. Health First delivers healthcare services throughout Brevard County with a network comprised of 4 hospitals with 868 beds, a health plan, and outpatient/wellness services including diagnostics, home health care, sleep centers, fitness facilities, pharmacy, cardiac rehabilitation, physical therapy, aging services, a hospice program, and bone/wellness center.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rockledge, FL, US

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