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Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Waterville, ME (NOW HIRING)

Northern Light Health

Medical Assistant- Certified

Unity, ME · On-site

$18.50 - $22.10/hr

The Phlebotomist is the laboratory's ambassador, providing important one-on-one patient care in the process of producing laboratory results. Responsibilities : * Willing to work extra when someone is ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Corinna, ME · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Medical Assistant/Technician (Hospital Corpsman) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... laboratory, dental, and dive medicine; progressive professional development through leadership ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Jay, ME · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Medical Assistant/Technician (Hospital Corpsman) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... laboratory, dental, and dive medicine; progressive professional development through leadership ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Hallowell, ME · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Medical Assistant/Technician (Hospital Corpsman) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... laboratory, dental, and dive medicine; progressive professional development through leadership ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Augusta, ME · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Medical Assistant/Technician (Hospital Corpsman) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... laboratory, dental, and dive medicine; progressive professional development through leadership ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Waterville, ME · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Medical Assistant/Technician (Hospital Corpsman) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... laboratory, dental, and dive medicine; progressive professional development through leadership ...

Nitelines USA, Inc.

Medical Technologist

Augusta, ME

$30/hr

Support laboratory workflow by prioritizing stat, routine, and scheduled testing. * Assist with validating new or revised test methods, procedures, equipment, or workflows as assigned. * Coordinate ...

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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 Waterville, ME is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $23.03 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 Waterville, ME?

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

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

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

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

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

Laboratory Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Waterville, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% 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 $42,035 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Veterans Health Administration

Augusta, ME • On-site

$72K - $139K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Veterans Health Administration rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,007 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description


QualificationsBasic Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
  • English Language Proficiency: Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403 (f)
  • Education: A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university
  • Certification: (1) Candidates must meet one of the certification options below.(a) Generalist certification as an MLS given by ASCP BOC or AMT.(b) Generalist certification as an MT given by ASCP BOR or AMT.(c) Categorical certification or Specialist certification by ASCP or AMT
  • NOTE: Categorical and specialist certifications are not acceptable for CLS Generalist positions or lab sections unrelated to the categorical or specialist certification held
  • Categorical or specialist certifications are acceptable for higher-graded positions within the relevant lab section or one of the non-section specific assignments (including, Ancillary Testing Coordinator, Education Coordinator, Laboratory Information Manager, Quality Manager, Laboratory Manager, Regional Technical Specialist, National Quality and Compliance Agent, Regional Program Manager, Regional Director, Laboratory Director, or National Quality and Compliance Officer)
  • GS-07 Experience: None beyond the basic requirements
  • Assignment: Employee at this level serves in a CLS entry-level position
  • It is expected that they receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require daily direct supervision
  • GS-09 Experience or Education: Candidates at this level must meet one of the criteria below: Experience: One (1) year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS 7)
  • OR
  • Education: Master's degree or two (2) academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education in medical technology or a directly related science
  • Assignment: An individual at this grade level serves as a developmental CLS
  • The CLS is responsible for evaluating, performing, interpreting, and validating the accuracy and validity of test results
  • The CLS demonstrates a clear progression of clinical knowledge and experience by performing testing procedures on a variety of biological specimens using manual or automated methods
  • This includes routine testing, quality control, routine maintenance of instrumentation, and troubleshooting that applies innovative procedures and problem solving
  • Deviations from regular procedures, unanticipated problems, and unfamiliar situations are referred to more experienced staff for a decision or assistance
  • Assignments at this level will include developmental duties of increasing scope and diversity as compared to the entry level
  • It is expected that a CLS at this grade performs more complex work while receiving less frequent supervision than at the entry level
  • In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of policies and procedures of clinical laboratory testing
  • (b) Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance principles
  • (c) Knowledge of laboratory equipment and routine maintenance
  • (d) Ability to work as a team member and effectively complete assignments
  • (e) Ability to read and interpret written instructions
  • (f) Ability to accurately perform pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of testing
  • GS 11 Experience or Education: Candidates at this level must meet one of the criteria below: Experience: One (1) year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS 9)
  • OR
  • Education: Must have three (3) full years of progressively higher-level graduate education or a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in medical technology or a directly related science
  • Assignment: This is considered FPL for a CLS
  • A CLS at this level independently carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory
  • The CLS develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results in line with current laboratory regulatory requirements
  • The work performed may be in a variety of laboratory specialties such as chemistry, microbiology, immunology, hematology, and immunohematology
  • Testing procedures are performed on a variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated methods
  • In addition to routine testing, the CLS conducts quality control and routine maintenance of instrumentation and troubleshooting
  • The CLS correlates abnormal lab data with pathological states, determines the validity of test results, and the need for additional tests
  • Specific targeted laboratory responsibilities or projects may include laboratory safety officer, analyzer specialist, primary operator on new test systems, quality control specialist, supply control, and/or coordinator for the laboratory competency assessment or proficiency/survey program
  • This assignment may include limited duties in areas such as lab information management and ancillary testing
  • These tasks require a broad exercise of independent judgment and responsibility, including organizing and setting priorities with minimal technical supervision
  • The CLS assesses a situation, considers the options, and formulates an appropriate course of action
  • This assignment includes monitoring quality control systems and measures, collaborating in the diagnosis and treatment of patients, and providing education for laboratory health care professionals and the public in a professional, courteous, and effective manner
  • In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of professional clinical laboratory science principles, practices, concepts, and theories that support sound, independent work
  • (b) Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance procedures and principles of performance improvement
  • (c) Skill in informatics, laboratory data flow, and laboratory processes
  • (d) Ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation
  • (e) Ability to use independent technical judgment to analyze and interpret laboratory results
  • (f) Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex written instructions
  • (g) Ability to communicate, consult, and interact with other members of the health care team, external relations, customer service, and patient education
  • Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
  • The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 11
  • The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS 7 to GS 11
  • Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service for requirements.

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About Veterans Health Administration

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The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, serving millions of Veterans each year. Located in Phoenix, AZ, and many other parts of the US, the VHA operates under the Department of Veteran Affairs, as suggested by their official website va.gov. The VHA is dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive care to its veterans. The organization offers a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care, including mental health services, research, and pharmacy benefits.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US

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