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Medical Lab Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Overview Medical Lab Assistant Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional Overview: Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Medical Lab Assistant Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional Overview: Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ...

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN

Senior Lab Assistant Part Time, 48 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional Overview ... Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ...

Adecco

Medical Office Lab Assistant

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

... Lab Assistant in Oak Ridge, TN. Apply today if you meet the qualifications listed below. Location: Oak Ridge, TN Duration: 4 month contract Pay rate range: $20 - 22/hour Job Summary: * The Medical ...

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Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview Senior Lab Assistant Part Time, 48 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional ... Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical ...

Covenant Health

CLIN LAB ASSISTANT

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Overview Clinical Laboratory Assistant | Senior Clinical Laboratory Assistant, General Laboratory ... Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, part of Covenant Health, is a trusted regional hospital ...

Covenant Health

CLIN LAB ASSISTANT

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Clinical Laboratory Assistant | Senior Clinical Laboratory Assistant, General Laboratory PRN/OCC ... Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, part of Covenant Health, is a trusted regional hospital ...

Covenant Health

CLIN LAB ASSISTANT

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Clinical Laboratory Assistant | Senior Clinical Laboratory Assistant, General Laboratory PRN/OCC ... Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, part of Covenant Health, is a trusted regional hospital ...

Ubertal Inc

Laboratory Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Quality Control Lab Assistant | Laboratory Technician | cGMP Location: On-site -- Knoxville, TN, United States Duration: 6-Month Contract | Full-Time | 2nd Shift (Sunday-Thursday, 2:30pm-11:00pm ...

AT Staffing

Medical Technologist-Lab

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$1.6K/wk

Medical Technologist-Lab Location: Knoxville, TN Salary Range: $1663.20 Weekly Position: Medical Technologist-Lab Description: Job Reference #: 56137631 Our Client is currently seeking a Medical ...

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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 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical lab assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $20.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $20.24 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.

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 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.

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. Salaries can vary based on the healthcare setting and whether the role involves specialized skills or advanced equipment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with additional certifications can earn higher wages.

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.

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.

More about Medical Lab Assistant jobs
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Medical Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Medical Lab Assistant job openings:
Medical Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Lab Assistant job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,509 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Covenant Health

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview
Medical Lab Assistant
Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift
Fort Sanders Regional Overview:
Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical expertise with advanced medical technology to deliver exceptional care. As a Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center, we provide leading-edge treatment for stroke recovery. Our facility also offers specialized services in bariatric surgery, robotic surgery, minimally invasive spine procedures, and advanced orthopedic care.
Fort Sanders Regional is part of Covenant Health, East Tennessee's largest nonprofit health system and a Becker's "Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare." Covenant Health includes nine hospitals and nearly 150 service locations, offering employees a comprehensive benefits package with tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, certification bonuses, and leadership development programs.
Position Summary:
The Medical Laboratory Assistant performs the pre-analytical and preparatory portion of the testing process for routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for use in diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians. The individual will perform only those processes that s/he has been trained and found competent in performing. Must also be able to perform the duties of a Sr. Laboratory Assistant.
Responsibilities
  • Performs preparatory functions necessary to complete routine and high complexity tests that the individual has been trained in. Functions include:
    • Centrifuging; pouring off blood, body fluid, and urine specimens; preparing specimens for testing; and archiving specimens
    • Checking applicable specimens for clots if needed prior to proceeding for testing
    • Performing pipetting techniques for appropriate specimen preparations
    • Preparing peripheral blood smears for staining for microscopic examination
    • Staining peripheral blood smears by automated method
    • Loading primary bar-coded clinical specimens on any trained analyzer
    • Preparing microbiology specimens for cultures and gram stains, including inoculation of microbiology culture plates from primary clinical specimens, slide preparation and staining by automated method
    • Preparing specimens for KOH examinations
    • Preparing specimens for GMS stains for pathology and track according to protocol
    • Preparing and loading blood culture specimens into appropriate incubators
    • Preparing specimens for PCR testing
    • Preparing viral culture specimens for testing by appropriate reference laboratory, and completing required regulatory documentation
    • Preparing 24-hour urine containers with preservatives
    • Receiving and tagging new reagent inventory, and sorting by lot number to separate current versus new reagent lot numbers
    • Performing required quality checks of eye wash and emergency shower stations
  • Follows the Laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, and preparatory steps.
  • Documents all corrective actions taken when the test process deviates from the Laboratory's established performance specifications. Does not submit patient specimens for testing until all corrective action has been taken.
  • Identifies problems that may adversely affect a test result and either corrects or notifies a licensed Laboratory employee to assist.
  • Utilizes the LIS in patient accessioning, and monitors incomplete and collection lists. Follows up by locating specimens and taking appropriate next steps, including loading specimens, aliquoting, or notifying a MLT/MT of issues.
  • Operates, maintains and troubleshoots applicable Laboratory equipment, e.g. centrifuges, stainers, etc, as trained to use.
  • Checks communication boards at least weekly.
  • Plans work to insure maximum productivity with minimum amount of 'carry over' work, while keeping overtime to a minimum. Responsible for communicating to the next shift and other appropriate staff needed information about patient samples or equipment performance.
  • Acts as resource person for phlebotomy if trained appropriately, including outpatients.
  • Maintains and disinfects work area.
  • Assists with coverage of the pneumatic tube system, processing and distributing specimens.
  • Handles biohazard wastes according to policy.
  • Performs any job-related duties assigned by competent authority. Helps other departments as qualifications and needs permit.
  • Assists in the orientation and training of new and existing employees.
  • Responsible for care, maintenance, trouble-shooting and notification of Manager when equipment is in need of repair or replacement (i.e. stainers, centrifuges, printers, fax/copy machines, etc.).
  • Performs pipette and glassware cleanings, timer verifications, centrifuge rpms, and thermometer verifications, and pipette verifications.
  • Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports.
  • Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
  • Local travel may be required.

Qualifications
Minimum Education:
None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED. Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.
Minimum Experience:
Basic computer skills, medical terminology, registration and phlebotomy skills or equivalent combination of clinical/clerical skills. Upon hire, must successfully complete a Covenant Health Training Program specific for the Medical Lab Assistant position within 6 months.
Licensure Requirement:
Employee must have a valid Tennessee driver's license Class D and state mandated minimum insurance coverage. Driving record must meet Covenant Health minimum standards at the date of hire and throughout employment tenure.

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