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Medical Lab Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT-BU

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Overview Medical Lab Assistant, General Laboratory Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Variable Shifts Rotating weekends and holidays. Methodist Medical Center Overview: With more than 30 specialties ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT-BU

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Medical Lab Assistant, General Laboratory Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Variable Shifts Rotating weekends and holidays. Methodist Medical Center Overview: With more than 30 specialties from ...

Tennessee Board of Regents

Lab Assistant

Nashville, TN

$41K - $45K/yr

Lab Assistant Apply now Job no: 503902 Work type: Staff Full-Time Location: Nashville Categories: Staff Lab Assistant - Computer Operating Systems, Networking and Cybersecurity Program Location:100 ...

Labcorp

Lab Assistant

Nashville, TN

LabCorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team at Ascension St Thomas West Hospital in ... High school diploma or equivalent * 6 months or more medical or clinical industry work experience ...

TNBR Careers

Lab Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$41K - $45K/yr

Lab Assistant - Computer Operating Systems, Networking and Cybersecurity Program Location:100 White Bridge Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 Company: TCAT Nashville Lab Assistant - Computer Operating Systems ...

The Tennessee Board of Regents

Lab Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$41K - $45K/yr

Lab Assistant - Computer Operating Systems, Networking and Cybersecurity Program Location:100 White Bridge Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 Company: TCAT Nashville Lab Assistant - Computer Operating Systems ...

Covenant Health

LAB ASSISTANT

Sevierville, TN · On-site

Overview Lab Assistant, General Laboratory Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Night Shift LeConte ... LeConte Medical Center is a part of Covenant Health, our region's top-performing healthcare network ...

Covenant Health

MLT

Sevierville, TN · On-site

Medical Lab Technician, General Laboratory $3,000 Sign-on Bonus for Experienced Candidates $2,000 ... Performs all functions of a Sr. lab assistant as required. * Receives or collects specimens ...

Covenant Health

LAB ASSISTANT

Sevierville, TN · On-site

Lab Assistant, General Laboratory Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Night Shift LeConte Medical ... LeConte Medical Center is a part of Covenant Health, our region's top-performing healthcare network ...

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Medical Lab Assistant information

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How much do medical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical lab assistant in Tennessee is $21.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $21.15 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.
More about Medical Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Lab jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Medical Lab jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Tennessee?

For Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Medical Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Medical Lab Assistant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Medical Lab Assistant jobs in TN?

For Medical Lab Assistant jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Medical Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Lab Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,470 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT-BU

Covenant Health

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview
Medical Lab Assistant, General Laboratory
Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Variable Shifts
Rotating weekends and holidays.
Methodist Medical Center Overview:
With more than 30 specialties from Cardiology and Neurosurgery to Orthopedics and Vascular care, Methodist Medical Center was one of the first hospitals in East Tennessee to offer cutting-edge treatments and technologies that benefit people with life-threatening aneurysms, severely damaged knee, hip and shoulder joints, sudden heart failure, and non-healing wounds.
  • 283 licensed beds
  • 25 ICU beds
  • 12 intermediate care beds
  • 38 emergency suites
  • 2 cath labs
  • 8 LDRP suites
  • Over 250 active and courtesy physicians
  • Over 800 employees

Position Summary:
The Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) performs the pre-analytical and preparatory steps of the testing process for clinical laboratory tests for use in diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians. The individual will perform only those processes for which he/she has been trained and deemed competent. MLAs must also be competent to perform the duties of a Clinical Lab Assistant, Senior. Local travel may be required.
Responsibilities
  • Performs preparatory functions necessary to complete routine and high complexity tests that the individual has been trained in. Functions include
    • centrifuging, pouring off specimens, preparing specimens for testing, and archiving specimens
    • preparing peripheral smears
    • staining peripheral smears by automated method
    • loading primary bar-coded specimens on an analyzer
    • primary inoculation of microbiology specimens, including slide preparation and staining by automated method
    • preparation of 24 hour urine containers with preservatives
    • monitor work pending reports
    • communication of critical results
  • Follows the Laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, and preparation.
  • Identifies problems that may adversely affect a test result and either correct or notify a licensed Laboratory employee to assist.
  • Utilizes the LIS in patient accessioning; monitors incomplete and collection lists.
  • Operates, maintains and troubleshoots applicable Laboratory equipment, e.g. centrifuges, stainers, etc.
  • Communicates with the next shift and other appropriate staff needed information regarding patient samples or equipment performance.
  • Performs phlebotomy (if deemed competent).
  • Maintains and disinfect work area.
  • Assists with management of the pneumatic tube system, processing and distributing specimens.
  • Handles biohazard waste according to policy.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of all patient, co-worker and business information at all times.
  • Follows policy regarding the release of information.
  • Assists other laboratory sections as qualifications permit.
  • Assists with orientation and training of staff as appropriate
  • Performs pipette and glassware cleanings, timer verifications, centrifuge rpms, and thermometer verifications.
  • Checks and follows up incomplete reference Lab reports.
  • Adhere to Methodist Medical Center Health policies on Integrity and Compliance issues.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • HEALTH/SAFETY/COMPETENCE: Cannot pose a direct threat to health or safety of self or others. Must provide safe, efficient, competent care to customers, responding appropriately in emergency situations. Must display good body mechanics when lifting, and understand chemical, biological, and electrical safety in the laboratory. Must be familiar with the concept of blood borne pathogens and wear or use the appropriate safety items that are provided while performing duties. Must demonstrate competency of the unit specific functions described in the performance continuum, skill lists and/or standards.

Qualifications
Minimum Education:
High School diploma or equivalent required. College degree or courses in hard sciences preferred. Basic computer skills, medical terminology, and phlebotomy skills preferred.
Minimum Experience:
No previous experience required. Experience in laboratory testing procedures and/or phlebotomy preferred.
Licensure Requirement:
Certification by NCA, ASCP or comparable institution is desirable. Employee must have a valid Tennessee driver's license Class D and state mandated minimum insurance coverage. Driving record must meet the Employer's minimum standards at the date of hire and throughout employment tenure.

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