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Lab Associate Jobs in Natchitoches, LA (NOW HIRING)

Phlebotomist - Lab AdminGeneral

Coushatta, LA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Assures quality of work performed by all associates. Coordinates services to customers in a manner that provides customer satisfaction and cost-efficient operations. * Assures compliance with CAP ...

Lab Associate information

See Natchitoches, LA salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Natchitoches, LA is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $22.36 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.

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.

How much does a lab assistant 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 the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers, Principal Investigators, or specialized research scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, resulting in higher compensation compared to entry-level lab associate roles.

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 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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's degree or higher in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory environments, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the industry. Their role supports research, quality control, or diagnostic processes.
What cities near Natchitoches, LA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Natchitoches, LA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Natchitoches, LA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,585 per year, or $20 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Technician I-Lab AdminGeneral-Full Time

Medical Laboratory Technician I-Lab AdminGeneral-Full Time

CHRISTUS Health

Coushatta, LA

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


CHRISTUS Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 525 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

531st of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description

Summary:

Performs clinical testing in assigned section/s such as general laboratory, Blood Bank and Microbiology sections, with all duties necessary for accurate and timely results including quality control, performance improvement, proficiency testing, and preventative maintenance of equipment. Recognizes abnormal critical values and follows proper guidelines for notifying medical team members of results. Performs clerical, general, and phlebotomy duties related to daily operations in the laboratory. Provides/dispenses blood products as requested by medical staff.

Responsibilities:

  • Meets expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies: Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders.
  • Ensures that the company philosophy and core values are evident in the service delivered to customers.
  • Specimen Collection/Handling/Processing– obtains blood specimens via venipuncture and/or fingerstick, accurately identifies and labels appropriately; answers pneumatic tube system; follows procedures for processing and testing specimens, including operating various centrifuges; obtains other designated patient specimens as listed in procedure manuals.
  • Result Reporting – recognizes errors or improbable results and takes appropriate action; reports critical values per Policy and Procedure; performs tests within established timeframe; performs laboratory testing, if designated, in the following sections: Hematology, Urinalysis, Coagulation, Chemistry, Special Chemistry, ER Stat Lab, and Microbiology; performs blood bank procedures, including crossmatching, ab id’s, and dispensing of blood products; operates laboratory automated analyzers according to established procedures.
  • Performs, analyzes, and records QC according to Policy & Procedure following CLIA, CAP, AABB, and JCAHO guidelines; performs and records Performance Improvement indicators and reports results.
  • Performs established daily and periodic preventative maintenance with documentation; troubleshoots minor problems and initiates service calls as needed; orders (or notifies assigned associate) and restocks supplies/reagents; reviews policy & procedure manual; dates reagents and discards expired reagents.
  • Takes responsibility for seeking and achieving professional growth and continued education.
  • Assists in training new associates and students in Laboratory practices.
  • Follows CAP, AABB, Compliance, CLIA, JCAHO, and OSHA standards.
  • Follows established protocols for safety, infection control, security, compliance, and the use of hazardous materials.
  • Utilizes LIS and HIS computer systems appropriately to perform, charge, and report laboratory results.
  • Completes annual competency assessment successfully and by assigned date.

Job Requirements:

Education/Skills

  • Associates Degree or higher in clinical laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution or equivalent laboratory training and experience meeting the requirements defined in the CLIA regulation 42CFR493.1489:

    • Successfully completed an official U.S. military medical laboratory procedures training course of at least 50 weeks duration and currently hold the military enlisted occupational specialty of medical laboratory specialist (laboratory technician);

      OR

    • 60 semester hours or equivalent from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, includes either 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, OR 24 semester hours of science courses that include six semester hours of chemistry, six semester hours of biology, and 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology or medical laboratory technology in any combination;

      AND

    • Laboratory training including either completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES, NAACLS, or other organization approved by HHS (note that this training may be included in the 60 semester hours listed above), or at least three months documented laboratory training in each specialty in which the individual performs high complexity testing. 

Experience

  • No experience required for graduates of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by NAACLS, or other organizations approved by HHS.

    OR

  • Six Months of approved clinical laboratory experience, which must include a clinical rotation through the following sections of the laboratory: Blood Banking, Microbiology, Chemistry, and Hematology, Immunology, and Urinalysis/Body Fluids in the U.S. or with an accredited laboratory within the last 5 years. (This meets the AMT MLT eligibility requirement).

Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications

  • Louisiana requires State Licensure.
  • New Graduate that is Board Certified or eligible (must complete Board Certification in 1 year of hire, Louisiana excluded).

Work Schedule:

6PM - 6AM 12 HR Shift

Work Type:

Full Time


What CHRISTUS Health employees say

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About CHRISTUS Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CHRISTUS Health is a prominent name in the healthcare industry, with its headquarters situated in Irving, TX, USA. Established in 1999, the company has since been devoted to providing comprehensive care and extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. This not-for-profit health system primarily operates more than 600 healthcare services and programs, including long-term care facilities, health insurance products, community clinics, and outreach services, serving both urban and rural populations.

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1999