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Medical Lab Assistant Jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador

Medical Lab Assistant information

See Newfoundland and Labrador salary details

$10

$17

$26

How much do medical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical lab assistant in Newfoundland and Labrador is $17.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical lab assistant?

Medical Lab Assistants are healthcare professionals who support laboratory technologists and technicians by preparing samples, conducting basic tests, and ensuring lab equipment is clean and functioning. They play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of patients by handling specimens such as blood, urine, and tissue. Their responsibilities include labeling samples, recording data, and sometimes interacting with patients to collect samples. Medical Lab Assistants work in hospitals, clinics, research laboratories, and diagnostic centers, helping to ensure accurate and timely test results.

What does a medical lab assistant do?

As a medical lab assistant, you typically work in a hospital or clinical/medical laboratory. This role is slightly different than a lab tech position in that you have less responsibility. As a lab assistant, it’s your job to assist technologists and technicians with lab tests. Depending on the specific position, your duties may include preparing specimens, managing their storage, and keeping track of the results. Other everyday tasks involve keeping the lab equipment clean, maintaining an accurate inventory of supplies, and placing orders as needed. You may also have administrative duties, like billing and filing.

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

To thrive as a Medical Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and safety protocols, typically gained through a diploma or certificate in medical laboratory technology. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), centrifuges, and automated analyzers is important for efficient workflow. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate results and smooth collaboration with healthcare teams. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining high standards of laboratory accuracy, safety, and timely patient care.

What are some common challenges medical lab assistants face in their daily work, and how can they be managed?

Medical Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling a high volume of specimens, maintaining accuracy under time pressure, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Managing these challenges involves strong organizational skills, effective communication with laboratory technologists and other healthcare staff, and diligent attention to detail. Many labs offer ongoing training and support to help assistants stay current with best practices and improve workflow efficiency, ensuring patient safety and reliable test results.

What is the difference between Medical Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectMedical Lab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, phlebotomy certificationAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology, certification often required
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job DutiesSample collection, preparing specimens, basic testingPerforming complex tests, analyzing samples, operating lab equipment
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, clinicsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic centers

Medical Lab Assistants typically handle sample collection and basic tasks, while Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in healthcare labs, but Technicians usually require more advanced education and certification.

How much does a medical lab assistant get paid?

A medical lab assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Salaries can vary based on the healthcare setting and whether the role requires specialized skills or equipment handling.

Is a medical lab assistant a good career?

A medical lab assistant is a valuable healthcare professional who performs laboratory tests and prepares specimens, supporting diagnosis and treatment. The role typically requires attention to detail, technical skills, and certification, with job prospects generally stable due to ongoing demand in healthcare settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Lab jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador?

The most popular types of Medical Lab jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador are:

What job categories do people searching Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador look for?

The top searched job categories for Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador are:

Infographic showing various Medical Lab Assistant job openings in Newfoundland and Labrador as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,560 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Sample Preparation Technician (General Labour)

ALS

Gander, NL

CA$21.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.

When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.

Sample Preparation Technician (General Labour)

Location: ALS Geochemistry

General Accountability:
Within the Sample Preparation Department, the Sample Preparation Technician will work with client samples and prepare them for analysis in our labs.

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Ringing, sieving (including International Soils), crushing, splitting under direct supervision;
  • Loading and unloading drying ovens under supervision;
  • Maintain own production logs;
  • General cleaning duties for basic lab cleanliness;
  • May assists with layout duties/tasks;
  • Use correct methods in accordance with the established procedures and schedules while ensuring analytical quality;
  • Observe established safety regulations and comply with all ALS health and safety policies and procedures;
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Good hand-eye coordination;
  • Good organizational skills;
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team;
  • Basic alpha/numeric comprehension;
  • Basic English communication skills (written and verbal).

Physical Demands:

  • Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time;
  • Ability to work in a hot and dusty environment;
  • Manual dexterity to perform repetitive tasks;
  • Provide written indication of the selection to participate or opt out of the voluntary silicosis monitoring program subject to Ontario Designated Substances Regulation 490/09.
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs (occasionally lifting may exceed 50lbs and assistance is mandatory from either another employee or the lift assist equipment);
  • Be cleanly-shaven in order to wear protective equipment.

Our Benefits Include

  • An estimated hourly pay of $21.39CAD at the time of posting. Individual compensation is determined by factors such as job-related skills, relevant experience, education and/or training.
  • Comprehensive benefit package specific to your work status (including extended medical, dental, and vision coverage, access to company perks, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with company match, employee assistance and wellness programs)
  • Additional vacation days for years of service
  • Business support for education or training after 9 months with the company

Please note: Benefits vary based on employee status.

Please note that ALS Geochemistry operates 24/7 and will require day, afternoon, and graveyard shift work.

Working at ALS

The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.

Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence.

At ALS, you'll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us.

We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

Everyone Matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, military or veteran status, gender, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information and any other characteristics protected by the law. We invite resumes from all interested parties, including women, First Nations, Metis and Inuit persons, members of minority groups, and persons living with disabilities.

ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.

Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.

How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.