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Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Reading, MA (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Lab Assistant

Concord, MA · On-site

$19.95 - $27.55/hr

Day shift Hours: 8:00-4:30 flexible About this role Join our Laboratory Services team and play an ... Assistant provides essential support to the Pathology and Cytology departments. This role is ...

Join our Laboratory Services team and play an important role in supporting patient care behind the ... Assistant provides essential support to the Pathology and Cytology departments. This role is ...

Join our Laboratory Services team and play an important role in supporting patient care behind the ... Assistant provides essential support to the Pathology and Cytology departments. This role is ...

Lab Assistant Generalist

Boston, MA · On-site

$18.99 - $28.21/hr

Works cooperatively with all hospital and laboratory staff, and external clients through verbal and ... No Licenses and Credentials Medical Laboratory Assistant [MLA(ASCP)] - American Society for ...

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Laboratory Assistant information

See Reading, MA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory assistant in Reading, MA is $21.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $24.33 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 Reading, MA?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Reading, MA are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Assistant jobs in Reading, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Assistant jobs in Reading, MA are:

What cities near Reading, MA are hiring for Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reading, MA with the most Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Reading, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,437 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant - Phlebotomist - Evenings - Cambridge

Cambridge Health Alliance

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$22.42 - $37.32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Cambridge Health Alliance rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location: CHA Cambridge Hospital
Category: Allied Health
Department: Pathology Administration
Job Type: Full time
Union Name: CH Laborers 380
Work Schedule: Evening
Length Of Shift(s) In Hours: 8
Shift Details: 3:00- 11:30 M-F with weekends rotation & on-call
Hours/Week: 40.00
Weekend Requirements: Yes
Holiday Requirements: Yes
On Call Requirements: Yes
Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) is a nationally recognized, award-winning health system serving communities in Cambridge, Somerville, and Boston's metro-north region. We are committed to delivering exceptional care while advancing health equity and innovation. Our laboratories are vital to that mission, providing high-quality diagnostic services that support patient care across our network of hospitals and health centers.
The CHA laboratory provides everything from routine blood and urine tests to special tissue evaluation.
Summary: To perform a narrow range of laboratory procedures and related duties, with supervision, following established standards and practices; to promote the efficient operation of the laboratory and patient care. To ensure an effective laboratory customer interface for providers, patients, visitors and other Alliance staff. Job Purpose: Performs routine laboratory work, with supervision, for which there are well-established procedures and minimal steps. This work contributes to the efficient operation of the laboratory.
Duties and responsibilities include: *performing phlebotomy on both adult and pediatric patients *performing quality control and assigned technical work under direct supervision *registration of patients *performing such activities as specimen processing, labeling and preparation of specimens as required; creating site batches to be shipped to the Cambridge Hospital Lab *performing assigned technical work under direct supervision. Assigned duties may include but not limited to: a. centrifugation of specimens b. preparation and staining of slides c. preparation of surgical/cytology specimens d. performing point-of-care waived testing e. labeling of tubes/slides for testing f. storage and retrieval of specimens * filing and photocopying of documents * performing computer functions * answering telephone calls for the department * transporting supplies from the lab storeroom to keep work area adequately stocked. *On-call responsibilities
Qualifications/Requirements: Minimum education: High school diploma or equivalent GED. Phlebotomy training and experience a must
Additional preferences: 1. previous science course education 2. fluency in the English language 3. basic computer skills; Meditech and EPIC experience preferred
May be required to work at additional sites
Please note that the final offer may vary within the listed Pay Range, based on a candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.
In keeping with federal, state and local laws, Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) policy forbids employees and associates to discriminate against anyone based on race, religion, color, gender, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to establishing and maintaining a workplace free of discrimination. We are fully committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not tolerate unlawful discrimination in the recruitment, hiring, termination, promotion, salary treatment or any other condition of employment or career development. Furthermore, we will not tolerate the use of discriminatory slurs, or other remarks, jokes or conduct, that in the judgment of CHA, encourage or permit an offensive or hostile work environment.

What Cambridge Health Alliance employees say

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Cambridge Health Alliance logo

About Cambridge Health Alliance

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) is a renowned healthcare organization located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. The entity operates in the healthcare and wellness sector serving the greater Boston area. Publicly established in 1996 through the merger of Cambridge and Somerville hospitals, the CHA provides a broad spectrum of clinical services ranging from primary care to specialty services. True to its commitment to the communities it serves, the CHA's mission involves providing high-quality care, respectful of every individual's needs, irrespective of their background or financial status.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1996

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