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Medical Lab Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Patient First

Lab Assistant

Landover Hills, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Electronically ordering lab, x-ray, and medical supplies as directed; * Notifying the Nurse and/or Physician when patient is ready for exam while communicating symptoms and relaying questions about ...

PatientFirst

Lab Assistant

Landover Hills, MD · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Electronically ordering lab, x-ray, and medical supplies as directed; * Notifying the Nurse and/or Physician when patient is ready for exam while communicating symptoms and relaying questions about ...

Inova

Medical Laboratory Technician 2

Springfield, VA · On-site

$24.85 - $37.30/hr

Certified Medical Lab Technician or Medical Laboratory Technician - Upon start. About Us We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members ...

New

Inova

Medical Laboratory Technician 2

Alexandria, VA

Certified Medical Lab Technician or Medical Laboratory Technician - Upon start. We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide ...

UVA Health

Sr Medical Lab Tech (MLT)

Manassas, VA

Sr Medical Lab Tech (MLT) Job Code: LA3375 SIGN-ON BONUS $2,500 Monday- Friday | 2 pm-10:30 pm ... They will advise and assist in the orientation and training of other personnel on equipment and ...

UVA Health

Clinical Lab Assistant III

Manassas, VA

Clinical Lab Assistant III Job Code: LA3454 Schedule: Shifts are 8 hours per day, Monday through ... Knowledge of current medical terminology to perform full range of laboratory tasks. Knowledge of ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18.39/hr

Resolves pending list in coordination with Lab Assistants and Medical Lab Scientists. * Liaison for the department and technical support * Creates manual testing worksheets in the department.

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18.39/hr

Resolves pending list in coordination with Lab Assistants and Medical Lab Scientists. * Liaison for the department and technical support * Creates manual testing worksheets in the department.

ECPI University

CIS Laboratory Assistant

Manassas, VA · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Position Summary The lab assistant provides student support through resolving computer problems, answering students' questions and facilitating communication with the lab instructor. The Lab ...

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Medical Lab Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$13

$24

$59

How much do medical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical lab assistant in Reston, VA is $24.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are different roles with MLS typically earning higher salaries due to advanced education and responsibilities. MLS professionals usually have a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing, which is reflected in higher pay compared to MLTs, who often have an associate degree and perform routine testing.

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.

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.

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, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. 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 does a lab assistant get paid?

Medical lab assistants typically earn between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. The job often requires knowledge of laboratory procedures and the use of testing equipment.

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 are popular job titles related to Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Reston, VA? For Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Medical Lab Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Medical Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Medical Lab Assistant job openings:
Medical Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Lab Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,974 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Lab Assistant

Lab Assistant

Patient First

Landover Hills, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Patient First rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

327th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Providing quality and rapid lab results involving knowledge of laboratory analyses, proper procedures, work equipment, and safety procedures;
  • Following the laboratory's procedures for specimen collection, handling, and processing, as well as for test analyses, reporting, and record maintenance of test results;
  • Adhering to the laboratory's quality control policies and documenting all quality control activities and maintenance under the supervision of the Lab Technician on duty;
  • Electronically ordering lab, x-ray, and medical supplies as directed;
  • Notifying the Nurse and/or Physician when patient is ready for exam while communicating symptoms and relaying questions about lab or x-ray needs;
  • Adhering to the established corrective action policies and procedures of the laboratory whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance and documenting those actions;
  • Identifying and troubleshooting problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results either by correcting the problem or notifying the Lab Technician on duty, Lab Supervisor, or Lab Consultant;
  • Receiving and distributing lab supplies as needed;
  • Adhering to safety policies as defined by Patient First and OSHA;
  • Assisting Nurses and Physicians with various forms of patient treatment and care;
  • Handling Physician and Nurse requests with respect and in a timely manner;
  • Fostering teamwork and ensuring a positive and professional atmosphere;
  • Providing positive, warm, and friendly service in all interactions;
  • Understanding and performing all duties as assigned.

Minimum education and professional requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Employee must be 18 years of age or older;
  • High school graduate or equivalent. Must have knowledge of laboratory principles, concepts, and methodologies sufficient to perform waived testing;
  • Ability to produce rapid, reliable, quality laboratory results during periods of high volume (100 or more patients per day);
  • Ability to multitask, prioritize work, and take initiative based on varying volume and dynamic situations;
  • Knowledge and skill sufficient to use and maintain laboratory instrumentation;
  • Proficiency in performing venipuncture, finger stick collections, and drug screens;
  • Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for long periods of time (possibly 4-7 hours at a time);
  • Must be able to lift moderately heavy to heavy items (20 to 50 pounds);
  • Willingness to work at any center due to a staffing or center emergency or reduction of work.
Salary Range: $22.00 - $25.00, depending on experience.

Benefits and Other Compensation:

Health, Dental and Vision insurance for employees and dependents

Disability, Life and Long Term care insurance

Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending accounts, 401(k) Retirement Plan (with employer match)

Paid Annual Leave, Volunteer Time Off Pay, Bereavement Leave, Emergency Leave Bank

Overtime Pay, Holiday Pay, Double time compensation for all holidays worked

Discounted medical treatment at any Patient First location for employees and immediate family

Bonuses include:

- Recruitment bonus

- Patient Care Performance bonus (center employees only)

- Weekend bonus (center employees only)

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