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Medical Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Medical Lab Assistant information

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$13

$23

$56

How much do medical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical lab assistant in Virginia is $23.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a medical laboratory assistant do?

A medical laboratory assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing specimens, recording data, and performing basic tests under supervision. They handle sample collection, maintain lab equipment, and ensure accurate documentation, often working with laboratory information systems and following safety protocols.

What are Medical Lab Assistants?

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.

Who gets paid more, MLS or MLT?

Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) typically earn higher salaries than Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) because MLSs usually have a bachelor's degree and more advanced training. MLTs generally hold an associate degree and perform routine lab tests under supervision. Salary differences reflect education level, certification, and experience in the laboratory setting.

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Medical lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with postsecondary training or certification in clinical laboratory procedures. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and basic knowledge of biology and chemistry. Certification or formal training can improve job prospects and may be required by some employers.

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 do MLTs make?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLTs) in Florida typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, employer, and additional skills such as proficiency with laboratory equipment or specialized testing.

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 most commonly searched types of Medical Lab jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Medical Lab jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Medical Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Medical Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Medical Lab Assistant job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,576 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Medical Lab Scientist (MLS) - Medical Lab Technician (MLT) - Maryview Medical Center

Medical Lab Scientist (MLS) - Medical Lab Technician (MLT) - Maryview Medical Center

Bon Secours Mercy Health

Portsmouth, VA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Bon Secours Mercy Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 467 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

373rd of 876 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Thank you for considering a career at Bon Secours!

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

20

Work Shift:

Afternoons/Evenings (United States of America)

You could be eligible for up to a $7,500 Sign on Bonus for this role!

Bon Secours

About Us

As a faith-based and patient-focused organization, Bon Secours exists to enhance the health and well-being of all people in mind, body and spirit through exceptional patient care. Success in this goal requires a culture of compassion, collaboration, excellence and respect. Bon Secours seeks people that are committed to our values of compassion, human dignity, integrity, service and stewardship to create an environment where associates want to work and help communities thrive.

Medical Lab Scientist (MLS) - Maryview Medical Center

(Part time, 20 hours/week. Hours from 2:30PM to 11PM. Every third weekend and two holidays per year required)

Job Summary:

The Medical Lab Scientist (MLS) is responsible for performing the routine test on blood, tissues, and other body specimens, as well as providing physicians with quality results using a variety of clinical laboratory equipment. The Medical Lab Scientist (MLS) must have a total understanding of patient safety and laboratory techniques necessary to guarantee complete patient safety and anonymity.

Essential Functions:

  • Performs analytical tests on biological specimens, in a timely, efficient, and accurate manner in compliance with documented laboratory procedures
  • Determines acceptability of specimens by performing visual inspections or by recognizing abnormal/ unusual results
  • Recognizes factors that affect measurements and results by taking the appropriate action according to protocols
  • Performs quality control for all testing and meets established ranges before patient results are released
  • Maintains a safe and efficient work environment by performing equipment checks, cleaning work area, monitoring temperatures following hospital policies, and troubleshoots laboratory equipment
  • Other duties as assigned

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in one of the following: Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science, Biology or Biochemistry through a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) approved program (required)

Certifications:

  • MLS Medical Lab Scientist Certification or eligible by a nationally recognized certification agency (preferably ASCP) (required)

Experience:

  • Externship program completed (preferred)

Skills & Abilities:

  • Ability to provide quality, error-free work in a fast-pasted environment
  • Engage with staff and patients in a professional manner

Bon Secours is an equal opportunity employer.

As a Bon Secours associate, you're part of a Mission that matters. We support your well-being - personally and professionally. Our benefits are built to grow with you and meet your unique needs, every step of the way.

What we offer

  • Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses and 403(b) with employer contributions (when eligible)

  • Medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, HSA/FSA options, life insurances, mental health resources and discounts

  • Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, backup care for children and elders

  • Tuition assistance, professional development and continuing education support

Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status.

Department:

Core Laboratory - Maryview

It is our policy to abide by all Federal and State laws, as well as, the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). Accordingly, all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health- Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours - Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com.


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