ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Maine Medical Center

Laboratory Technician

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$20.68 - $25.10/hr

Medical Laboratory Assistant Certification preferred. * Experience: Six months of healthcare experience preferred. * Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Must be able to travel among company ...

CHANCORP INC

Laboratory Technician

Gorham, ME · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

We are seeking a Laboratory Technician to join our team. You will run tests and procedures on water samples using a variety of instrumentation, follow all lab safety guidelines and procedures, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaboratory JobsLaboratory Assistant JobsLaboratory Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME

Laboratory Assistant information

See Portland, ME salary details

$10

$20

$30

How much do laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory assistant in Portland, ME is $20.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, and lab technicians by performing routine tasks in laboratories. Their duties often include preparing and cleaning lab equipment, collecting and labeling samples, conducting basic experiments, and maintaining accurate records of their work. They play a crucial role in ensuring that laboratories run smoothly and efficiently, and their work helps facilitate scientific research and development. Laboratory assistants may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, research institutions, and educational facilities.

What are some common challenges laboratory assistants face in maintaining accuracy and safety in their daily tasks?

Laboratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple samples simultaneously while adhering to strict protocols for accuracy and contamination prevention. Ensuring proper labeling, handling hazardous materials safely, and maintaining detailed records are essential responsibilities that require attention to detail and strong time management skills. Collaboration with scientists and technicians is also important, as clear communication helps prevent errors and promotes a safe, efficient work environment. Staying up-to-date on safety procedures and laboratory best practices is key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, sample handling, and safety protocols, usually supported by a relevant science degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), basic laboratory equipment, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining accuracy and collaborating with team members. These abilities ensure reliable results, uphold safety standards, and support the overall efficiency and integrity of laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Laboratory Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationPost-secondary education, often a diploma or associate degree in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labs, educational institutionsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial laboratories
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample collection, preparing specimens, cleaning equipmentPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Common UsageOften entry-level, supporting technical staffMore technical, with independent testing responsibilities

Laboratory Assistants typically support laboratory operations with basic tasks and require minimal formal education. Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often needing specialized training or certification. Both roles are essential in lab settings, but Laboratory Technicians usually have a higher level of technical responsibility.

Do you need qualifications to be a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and basic knowledge of safety procedures.

How do you become a laboratory assistant?

To become a laboratory assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant laboratory or scientific coursework. Some positions require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques, and strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are important for success.

How much does a laboratory assistant get paid?

The average salary for a laboratory assistant varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often working in clinical, research, or industrial labs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Portland, ME are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Assistant jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Assistant jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Laboratory Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,100 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Laboratory Technician

Scarborough, ME • On-site

Maine Medical Center

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

553rd of 1,064 rated hospitals

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Maine Medical Centerexternal

$20.68 - $25.10/hr

Per diem

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description
NorDx
Professional - Clinical
Req #: 90442
Summary:
The Laboratory Technician role independently performs and monitors laboratory testing of patient specimens according to established procedures and regulatory requirements. Recognizes technical, instrumental problems and initiates resolutions. Assumes responsibility for accuracy, quality control and required instrument maintenance. May provide training of laboratory and/or other health care personnel as directed.
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
  1. Education: Associate's Degree preferred.
  2. License/Certifications: Medical Laboratory Assistant Certification preferred.
  3. Experience: Six months of healthcare experience preferred.
  4. Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Must be able to travel among company sites.
  5. Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Additional Information
MaineHealth is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where care team members can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve across Maine and New Hampshire. We offer competitive benefits including paid parental leave, flexible work options, student loan assistance, professional development opportunities, and well-being resources-so you can grow your career while feeling supported both personally and professionally.
We recognize the value each team member brings to our organization. Any offer of employment will depend on qualifications such as skills, relevant experience, education, certifications, and other job-related factors. The base range is an estimate and does not reflect the full value of our total compensation package.
The pay range for this position is $20.68 to $25.10 per hour.
Compensation for part-time positions is determined on a prorated basis consistent with the scheduled hours and applicable full-time equivalent (FTE).
In addition to base pay, MaineHealth offers comprehensive benefits, recognition programs, career growth opportunities, and, where applicable, shift differentials or other incentives.
If you have questions about this role, please contact [email protected]
Hiring Scam Alert
MaineHealth will never request financial information during the interview or pre-hiring process. All legitimate communications will come from an email address ending in @mainehealth.org. If you suspect fraudulent activity, please report it immediately to [email protected] .
Notice Regarding Maine Employer Surveillance Statute: Pursuant to Maine's Employer Surveillance Statute, prospective care team members are notified that MaineHealth may monitor, collect, record, review, or retain information related to the use of its systems, networks, applications, files, data, communications platforms (including notified recordings), smart badges, building access, company vehicle GPS data, business calls, and workplace security cameras.
Information collected may be used for legitimate business purposes, including security, safety, compliance, investigations, training, quality assurance, and operational management.

What Maine Medical Center employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply