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Lab Associate Jobs in Scranton, PA (NOW HIRING)

Medical Assistant

Weatherly, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Collects and prepares lab specimens/lab requisitions accurately and schedules and obtains ... Associate's Degree from a Medical Assistant Program * CCMA - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant ...

Medical Assistant

Weatherly, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Collects and prepares lab specimens/lab requisitions accurately and schedules and obtains ... Associate's Degree from a Medical Assistant Program * CCMA - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant ...

Medical Assistant

Blakeslee, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Collects and prepares lab specimens/lab requisitions accurately and schedules and obtains ... Associate's Degree from a Medical Assistant Program * CCMA - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant ...

Medical Assistant

Blakeslee, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Collects and prepares lab specimens/lab requisitions accurately and schedules and obtains ... Associate's Degree from a Medical Assistant Program * CCMA - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant ...

Asset Protection

Tobyhanna, PA · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

... Network Lab Technicians in the Systems Testing and Reclamation facility. Benefits & perks At ... part-time associates in Walmart and Sam's Club facilities. Programs range from high school ...

Laboratory Assistant II - Evenings

Wilkes Barre, PA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

HS diploma or GED Laboratory Assistant II - Minimum 1 year of experience or one of the following will be accepted in lieu of required experience: 1. Bachelor or Associate degree in clinical or ...

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Lab Associate information

See Scranton, PA salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Scranton, PA is $22.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $24.76 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 are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Scranton, PA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Scranton, PA are:
What cities near Scranton, PA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Scranton, PA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Laboratory Assistant - Per Diem

Laboratory Assistant - Per Diem

Geisinger Health

Scranton, PA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Geisinger Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 434 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Location:
Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC)
Shift:
Rotation (United States of America)
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
0
Worker Type:
Regular
Exemption Status:
No
Job Summary:
Join our team at Geisinger Medical Laboratories. You can find your passion for caring and innovation as a team member in our state-of-the-art laboratories. Our mission is to provide exceptional patient care through innovative, efficient, and high-quality laboratory services.
Job Duties:
Assesses, accessions, and processes patient specimens in preparation for testing in the various sections of Laboratory Medicine.
  • Safely handles potentially infectious blood, body fluids, body tissues and other patient specimens in compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Assesses suitability and acceptability of patient specimens.
  • Rejects unacceptable specimens according to established protocols.
  • Matches order information with specimen information to ensure accuracy and patient safety.
  • Accessions and results according to procedure via appropriate computer application.
  • Correctly assigns billing numbers, location codes, and physician numbers.
  • Verifies physician orders when test requests are unclear.
  • Prepares specimens as appropriate including centrifugation, aliquoting, labeling.
  • Delivers prepared specimens to appropriate testing area in a timely manner.
  • Applies laboratory programs to store specimens and to locate, retrieve, and process specimens for additional testing as requested.
  • Maintains computer logs, quality control, disinfection procedures, and departmental assigned duties.
  • Manages phone inquiries and provides information regarding specimen collection, transport, and patient results as appropriate.
  • Navigates and accesses multiple computer applications as needed.
  • Assists with packaging ordering and referral of specimens to reference laboratories in compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation and commercial carrier regulations as required.
  • Troubleshoots missing specimens and other preanalytical errors including courier log review, specimen archives.
  • Maintains equipment, participates in established preventative maintenance program, and alerts supervisor of any equipment problems.
  • Assists in proper handling, storage, and maintenance of supplies, notifies supervisor when inventory is low.
  • Successfully completes initial and periodic competency assessments for all assigned job functions.

Work is typically performed in a clinical environment. Accountable for satisfying all job specific obligations and complying with all organization policies and procedures. The specific statements in this profile are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements considered necessary to successfully perform the job. Additional competencies and skills outlined in any department-specific orientation will be considered essential to the performance of the job related to that position.
Position Details:
Educational and other requirements:
  • Laboratory Assistant I - less than 1 year of experience; HS diploma or GED
  • Laboratory Assistant II - Minimum 1 year of experience or one of the following will be accepted in lieu of required experience:

1. Bachelor or Associate degree in clinical or related science field
2. Enrollment with a minimum of at least two semesters completed of an associate or bachelor's degree in clinical or related science field that includes introductory classes in biology or chemistry
3. ASCP Certified as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)
Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC)
Per Diem
Rotate shifts
Benefit Highlights:
  • 401(k) plan that includes automatic Geisinger contributions
  • Free Care.com membership with discounted backup care for your loved ones
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Referrals for childcare, eldercare, & pet care; Access free legal guidance, mental health visits, work-life support, digital self-help tools and more
  • MyHealth Rewards wellness program to improve your health

Education:
High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED)- (Required)
Experience:
Certification(s) and License(s):
Skills:
OUR PURPOSE & VALUES: Everything we do is about caring for our patients, our members, our students, our Geisinger family and our communities.
  • KINDNESS: We strive to treat everyone as we would hope to be treated ourselves.
  • EXCELLENCE: We treasure colleagues who humbly strive for excellence.
  • LEARNING: We share our knowledge with the best and brightest to better prepare the caregivers for tomorrow.
  • INNOVATION: We constantly seek new and better ways to care for our patients, our members, our community, and the nation.
  • SAFETY: We provide a safe environment for our patients and members and the Geisinger family.

We offer healthcare benefits for full time and part time positions from day one, including vision, dental and domestic partners. Perhaps just as important, we encourage an atmosphere of collaboration, cooperation and collegiality.
We know that a diverse workforce with unique experiences and backgrounds makes our team stronger. Our patients, members and community come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and it takes a diverse workforce to make better health easier for all. We are proud to be an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

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