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Lab Jobs in Forest, VA (NOW HIRING)

Amherst College

Research Assistant (Biology)

Amherst, VA · On-site

$20.87 - $22/hr

The Research Assistant will also assist with lab management on a limited basis. Takes appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participates in the College's efforts to create a ...

Prestige Brands

Chemist I - 3rd Shift

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Maintain lab supplies. Ensure work environment is safe, clean, and organized. * Prepare and maintain test solutions for analysis. * Dispose of organic lab waste. * Routine Water Testing

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All JobsLab JobsLab Jobs in Forest, VA

Lab information

See Forest, VA salary details

$8

$21

$37

How much do lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab in Forest, VA is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of lab jobs are there?

Lab jobs include roles such as laboratory technician, research scientist, lab assistant, and quality control analyst. These positions often require knowledge of scientific methods, laboratory equipment, and safety protocols, and may involve working in medical, research, or industrial laboratories.

What is the difference between Lab vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLabMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsVaries; often includes certifications or degrees in laboratory sciencesTypically requires an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industrial labs, academic institutionsHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, biotech companies, universitiesHealthcare providers, hospitals, diagnostic labs
Common Search & ComparisonLab vs Medical Laboratory Technician

While both roles involve laboratory work, 'Lab' is a broad term that can refer to various types of laboratories, including research and industrial settings. Medical Laboratory Technicians specifically work in healthcare environments, performing diagnostic tests to assist in patient care. The key differences lie in their work settings, required credentials, and industry focus.

What jobs can I do in a lab?

Jobs in a lab include roles such as laboratory technician, research scientist, lab assistant, and quality control analyst. These positions often require knowledge of laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes specific certifications or degrees in science or related fields.

Is it hard to get a job in a lab?

Securing a lab job can vary depending on the position and required qualifications. Entry-level roles may be easier to obtain with relevant education or certifications, while specialized or research positions often require experience and technical skills. Competition can be high for certain roles, but building relevant skills and networking can improve chances.

What does a lab technician do?

In a laboratory role, daily responsibilities often include preparing and analyzing samples, maintaining accurate records of experiments, calibrating and cleaning equipment, and following strict safety protocols. Team members may also assist with data analysis, report findings, and collaborate with researchers or other departments to support ongoing projects. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential, as lab work often contributes directly to larger research or production goals.

What is a lab technician?

Lab technicians are professionals who perform laboratory tests and procedures to assist scientists, doctors, or researchers in analyzing samples and conducting experiments. They work in various settings, such as hospitals, research facilities, and industrial labs, handling tasks like preparing specimens, operating lab equipment, and recording data. Their work is essential for diagnosing diseases, supporting scientific research, and ensuring the quality of products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab technician?

To thrive as a Laboratory Technician, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in biology or chemistry, typically supported by an associate or bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data management software such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is essential. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate testing, reliable results, and a safe, efficient laboratory environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Forest, VA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Forest, VA are:
What cities near Forest, VA are hiring for Lab jobs? Cities near Forest, VA with the most Lab job openings:
Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab job openings in Forest, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,045 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Medical Lab Tech/Medical Lab Scientist- VBH-Part time, Nights (7p-7am)

Centra Health

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Centra Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description


The Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)occupies a critical role in clinical diagnostics, ensuring that testing processes from specimen handling to result reporting are conducted with precision and adherence to laboratory protocols. The MLS is responsible for a suite of tasks that support the diagnosis and monitoring of patient health, operating within the scope of authority granted by the laboratory medical director and in line with their professional capabilities.
Responsibilities
Regulatory Compliance and Quality: Employees are obligated to uphold strict compliance with all regulations and standards set by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA), College of American Pathologists (CAP), Occupational and Safety Health Administration (OSHA), The Joint Commission (TJC), and other regulatory bodies. This includes active participation in quality assurance initiatives and adherence to best practices in laboratory testing. Perform duties as assigned by the medical director.
Compliance: Employees must complete the necessary initial orientation and training, obtain, and maintain relevant certifications, participate annually in mandatory training, competency assessments, and consistently demonstrate satisfactory job-specific performance assessments on on-going basis.
Specimen Processing and Reporting: Process patient samples efficiently, perform authorized tests, and report results accurately, contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions.
Test Performance: Conduct only authorized tests, ensuring that each task aligns with the MLS's level of education, training, experience, and technical skills.
Procedure Compliance: Adhere strictly to the laboratory's standard operating procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, and reporting. Maintain comprehensive records of patient test outcomes.
Quality Control: Implement and document the laboratory's quality control protocols, including instrument calibrations and maintenance, ensuring consistent test accuracy and reliability.
Proficiency Testing: Maintain records demonstrating that proficiency testing samples are processed with the same rigor and accuracy as patient samples.
Corrective Action: Follow established policies for corrective action when test systems deviate from acceptable performance levels. Identify and rectify or report any issues that may impact test performance or results.
Problem Resolution: Detect and address problems that could negatively affect test performance. Escalate issues to the technical consultant, clinical consultant, or director when necessary.
Documentation: Keep detailed records of all corrective actions taken when test systems fall outside established specifications.
Other Duties: Perform any additional duties as assigned or requested, as the job specifications may be modified or updated at any time.
Qualifications
Education Minimum:
Bachelor's degree in laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution. MLS certification through U.S. Miliary medical laboratory training programs can substitute for degree, per CLIA regulations.
Education Preferred:
None
Work Experience Minimum:
None
Work Experience Preferred:
None
Licenses & Certification Minimum:
MLS certification with either American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or American Medical Technologists (AMT) or obtained withing one year of employment. Employees meeting CLIA regulations before February 28, 1992, do not require certification.
Licenses & Certification Preferred:
None

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