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

Medical Lab Scientist Senior Job Code: LA3385 ABOUT US We are welcoming a new era in healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Health Northern VA & Culpeper, we believe in ...

Medical Lab Scientist I -PRN

Washington, DC · On-site

$29.73 - $53.49/hr

Ensures that turnaround time standards are met within lab section. Communicates any variances to ... the medical director. * Provides technical advice and support to other laboratory personnel as ...

Lab Assistant training or associate degree in the Sciences.Or an equivalent combination of ... innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide.

Lab Assistant training or associate degree in the Sciences.Or an equivalent combination of ... innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide.

Research Lab Tech - VA

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$24K - $50K/mo

Lab Assistant training or associate degree in the Sciences. Or an equivalent combination of ... innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide.

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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 Jun 26, 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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Medical Lab Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% 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.

$31.94/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Location: Fort Belvoir, VA

Pay: $31.94/hr & $4.93/hr for Health & Wellness pay

Benefits: Vest vacation, sick leave, holiday leave, Life, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, Short Term Disability

Optional Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(K) matching with employee participation in 401(K) plan


• Perform a full range of clinical laboratory tests in any one or a combination of the
following sections of the laboratory: hematology, chemistry, cytology, histotechnology,
urinalysis, serology, microbiology and blood bank as outlined in the TO.
• Determine the suitability of specimens for analysis. Prepare specimens for analysis and
ensure that the physiologic state of the properties is maintained.
• Prepare reagents and primary reference materials as necessary. Calibrate, standardize,
adjust, and maintain instruments. Verify correct instrument operation using established
procedures and quality control checks. Identify the cause of common problems and make
simple repairs.
• Recognize and react to indicators of malfunction. Locate and implement corrections.
Obtain analytical data, convert to a prescribed unit of reporting, as necessary, and
correlate data to verify results.
• Conduct quality control procedures on equipment, reagents and products and maintain
proper records for quality control and quality assurance reports.
• Prepare specimens for transport to MTF laboratory or for mail out.
• Prepare biological waste for proper disposal.


• Degree: Certificate.
• Education: Graduate from a medical laboratory technician training program accredited
by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or the
Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) or educational program
acceptable to the American Medical Technologist (AMT).
• Certification: Certification/registration as determined by the American Society for
Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or AMT as specified in the TO.
• Experience: One year of experience as specified in the TO.

Kako'o Services LLC

Kako'o Services is a premier provider of healthcare workers to various military treatment facilities across the United States. With a corporate office in Honolulu, Hawaii and recruiting office in San Antonio, Texas we specialize in providing skilled, trained and highly successful healthcare workers, including RNs, CRNAs, Physicians, LPN/LVN, Licensed Social Workers, and many more.

We have a strong focus on providing our government customers with quality and superior service.

Kako'o Services is an equal opportunity employer. For further information, please click the link to view the “Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal” poster.

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

Only qualified individuals who are being considered will be contacted for an interview.