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Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Assistant information

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How much do laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $19.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 the ability to follow safety protocols.

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 are the duties of a laboratory assistant?

A laboratory assistant is responsible for preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, collecting and processing samples, recording data accurately, and ensuring a clean and safe work environment. They often assist scientists or technicians with experiments and may handle inventory management and basic troubleshooting of lab tools.
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Laboratory Assistant jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Laboratory Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,612 per year, or $19 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Assistant - PRESNow Paseo

Presbyterian Healthcare Services

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Presbyterian Healthcare Services rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Clinical Laboratory Assistant

Build your Career. Make a Difference. Presbyterian is seeking a skilled Clinical Laboratory Assistant to support daily laboratory operations by performing phlebotomy and other specimen collection procedures. The role is responsible for ordering tests, processing patient specimens, and completing routine quality control activities. Additional responsibilities include performing waived or moderate-complexity testing according to established protocols, maintaining equipment, handling clerical tasks, and providing general assistance to clinical floor staff as needed.

How you grow, learn and thrive matters here:

  • Educational and career development options, including tuition and certification reimbursement, scholarship opportunities
  • Staff Safety (a wearable badge that allows nurses to quickly and discreetly call for help when safety is a concern)
  • Differentials for night/weekend shifts, higher education, certifications and various lead roles (for eligible positions)
  • Malpractice liability insurance
  • Loan forgiveness through the New Mexico Higher Education Department
  • EPIC electronic charting system

Type of Opportunity: Part time

FTE: 0.60

Job Exempt: No

Work Shift: Weekend Schedule Friday-Sunday (United States of America)

Responsibilities:

  • Performs phlebotomy and other specimen collection procedures according to established protocols
  • Completes specialized collections such as urine drug screens and PPDs when required
  • Processes requisitions, enters test orders, performs inquiry functions, verifies specimen transport, and prints collection labels
  • Receives, processes, and stores specimens, including centrifuging, aliquoting, splitting, acidifying, measuring, stabilizing, and performing biohazard disposal
  • Performs waived and moderate-complexity testing with documented training and competency
  • Conducts routine equipment maintenance and function checks, including pipette calibration when required
  • Maintains supply levels and manages inventory
  • Ensures compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements
  • Assists clinical floor staff with stocking, cleaning, patient transport, and other support tasks
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

  • HS/GED required.
  • Nine months of phlebotomy experience. Preference of PBT (ASCP) or equivalent certification.
  • Point of care, waived, and moderate complexity testing experience preferred, as well as laboratory specimen handling and testing.
  • Competent phlebotomy skills; demonstrate effective communication skills, team-oriented, multi-tasker, organized, able to work in a fast-paced environment; good analytical skills; be on call as needed or required; work holidays, evenings and weekends as required.

Presbyterian exists to improve the health of patients, members, and the communities we serve. We are locally owned, not-for-profit healthcare system of nine hospitals, a statewide health plan and a growing multi-specialty medical group. Founded in New Mexico in 1908, we are the state's largest private employer with nearly 14,000 employees - including more than 1600 providers and nearly 4,700 nurses.

Our health plan serves more than 580,000 members statewide and offers Medicare Advantage, Medicaid (Centennial Care) and Commercial health plans.

AA/EOE/VET/DISABLED. PHS is a drug-free and tobacco-free employer with smoke free campuses.Compensation Disclaimer The compensation range for this role takes into account a wide range of factors, including but not limited to experience and training, internal equity, and other business and organizational needs.


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About Presbyterian Healthcare Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Presbyterian Healthcare Services exists to improve the health of patients, members and the communities we serve. We are a locally owned, not-for-profit healthcare system of nine hospitals, a statewide health plan and a growing multi-specialty medical group. Founded in New Mexico in 1908, we are the state's largest private employer with nearly 14,000 employees - including more than 1,600 providers and nearly 4,700 nurses.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Albuquerque, NM, US

Year founded

1908

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