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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 Sep 5, 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 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 Rio Rancho, NM?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

For Laboratory Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles 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 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,612 per year, or $19 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Assistant- Trainer, Woodward/Specimen Management, (1378)

TriCore Reference Laboratories

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Schedule: Monday-Friday 1500-2330 with weekends and other shifts as needed

Location: Woodward/Specimen Management

Salary/Hourly: Hourly Position

JOB SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the department manager(s), develops and conducts job specific training programs for employees and students related to departmental use of computer systems, applications, operations, and workflow. Monitors progress of trainees and reports to manager on individuals’ progress. Monitors and documents employees’ competencies. Depending on the department, some travel with occasional overnight stays may be required. May perform and enter results for waived complexity tests and may load specimens on instrumentation for moderate complexity tests depending on location.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION:
1. Conduct group and one-on-one training sessions for all new employees, existing employees, and students as needed.
2. Develop, implement and document methods to monitor and report performance competency, training progress and progress toward complete of career ladder promotions.
3. Work with department manager(s) and corporate training to develop standardized, measurable training programs for new and existing employees.
4. Work with manager(s) to develop, schedule, coordinate, implement and monitor training for employees when processes or systems change.
5. Develop and implement systems and programs designed to measure/evaluate individuals' competencies relating to specific career ladder positions.
6. Assist within department as directed by manager(s) as appropriate.
7. Ensure all staff is aware of and attend mandatory compliance, quality and staff training, when assigned by Manager(s).
8. Under direction of department manager(s) ensure specified quality indicators and monitors are correctly measured, and provide appropriate feedback and retraining to trainees and staff.
9. Serve as subject matter expert to represent assigned department in cross departmental meetings, work groups and the development of relevant policies and procedures.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Minimum Qualifications:

MINIMUM EDUCATION:
• High School diploma or equivalent.
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE:
Meet one of the following:
• Two (2) years directly relevant experience within TriCore Reference Laboratories.
• One (1) year directly relevant experience within TriCore Reference Laboratories plus completion of relevant education such as a Bachelor or Associate degree.
• Three (3) years directly relevant experience elsewhere.
Note A: For positions in a Hospital Lab, Branch Lab or Patient Care Center, experience must include phlebotomy/Clinical Lab Assistant experience.
Note B: If the Department Trainer is required to train and help cover at Sandia National Labs, an ASCP phlebotomy certification or qualified phlebotomy certificate is required and/or must be obtained within 30 days.
PREFERENCES:
• Training experience, completion of a relevant adult education training program.
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS:
Prove immunity to Hepatitis B or be immunized or sign a waiver refusing hepatitis immunization. Provide documentation of a PPD test conducted not more than 90 days prior to date of hire or have a PPD test conducted.
IN DEPARTMENTS/LOCATIONS WITH DIRECT PATIENT CONTACT: Prove immunity or be eligible to receive rubella, rubeola and varicella immunization.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Basic knowledge and understanding of effective training methodologies.
2. Ability to effectively deliver training in a group or individual setting.
3. Ability to develop and maintain standardized, measurable training and competency records.
4. Effective communication and interpersonal skills: including the ability to write training materials, letters and other materials and the ability to effectively communicate in both group and individual settings.
5. Effective listening skills.
6. Effective organizational and time management skills.
7. Ability to maintain confidentiality.
8. Basic PC competency.
9. Able to work effectively independently or in a team setting.
10. Ability to use a variety of mediums for training (lecture, video, handouts, discussion).
11. Must be flexible in scheduling. Willing to work weekends and evenings as needed for training purposes.
12. Conduct department tours, cross training and demonstrations for individuals outside of the department as needed or requested.
13. Cross train in other departments to ensure proficiency in training.
14. Ability to do some travel with occasional overnight stays as required.
15. Eligible to work in a health care facility as provided by the New Mexico Caregivers Criminal History Screening Act or other applicable law.
16. Valid driver's license. Good driving record. Must be insurable by lab insurance carrier if required by location.

TriCore is New Mexico’s largest laboratory, employing more than 1,400 individuals who serve in a broad range of positions. We are dedicated to improving the quality of care for our communities, and also our employees. We foster a culture of integrity, are dedicated to excellence, and are looking for passionate individuals with a desire to have an impact in patient care, the core of our strategy. We offer excellent benefits including, medical, dental, vision and life insurances, 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching, PTO, and paid holidays, as well as opportunities for continuous learning, education assistance, wellness programs, career advancement, and the ability to share in our genuine commitment to the health of our communities. We offer a variety of shifts at multiple locations.