1

Medical Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Medical Laboratory Assistant information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$21

$52

How much do medical laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical laboratory assistant in Arizona is $21.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical laboratory assistant?

Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) are healthcare professionals who support laboratory technologists and scientists in performing laboratory tests and procedures. They are responsible for tasks such as collecting, preparing, and processing patient samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring accurate labeling and documentation. MLAs help ensure that laboratory operations run smoothly and that test results are delivered efficiently and safely to aid in patient diagnosis and treatment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical laboratory assistant?

To thrive as a Medical Laboratory Assistant, you need a background in laboratory science, specimen handling, and data entry, often supported by a certificate or diploma in medical laboratory technology. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and sample preparation tools is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining accuracy and ensuring efficient workflow. These skills and qualities are important to ensure reliable test results, patient safety, and smooth lab operations.

What are some common challenges faced by medical laboratory assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Medical Laboratory Assistants often face challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining strict attention to detail, and ensuring accurate labeling and processing under time constraints. Effective organization, clear communication with laboratory technologists and other healthcare staff, and following standardized protocols help manage these challenges. Continuous training and staying updated on safety procedures also contribute to minimizing errors and ensuring a smooth workflow within the laboratory environment.

What is the difference between Medical Laboratory Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technologist?

AspectMedical Laboratory AssistantMedical Laboratory Technologist
CredentialsPost-secondary diploma or certificateBachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related field
Work EnvironmentAssist with specimen collection, prepare samples, perform basic testsPerform complex analyses, interpret results, oversee lab operations
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic centers

The main difference between a Medical Laboratory Assistant and a Medical Laboratory Technologist lies in their education, scope of work, and responsibilities. Medical Laboratory Assistants support sample collection and basic testing, while Medical Laboratory Technologists perform advanced analyses and interpret results. Both roles are essential in healthcare labs, but Technologists typically require higher credentials and have a broader scope of practice.

How do you become a medical laboratory assistant?

To become a medical laboratory assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a post-secondary diploma or certificate program in medical laboratory assisting or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment; certification may also be required or preferred by some employers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Laboratory jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Medical Laboratory jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Medical Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Medical Laboratory Assistant job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,659 per year, or $22 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Assistant I

Valleywise Health System

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$17.54 - $25.87/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Valleywise Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

As a medical laboratory assistant, you will be joining a team of laboratory professionals in a fast-paced, state-of-the-art laboratory service. Under the direction of the laboratory supervisor, you will collaborate with members of the laboratory team to ensure the needs of patients and customers are being met. You will support pre-analytical laboratory tasks, point of care testing, and phlebotomy as assigned.
Hourly Pay Range: $17.54 - $25.87
Qualifications
Education:
  • Requires High school diploma or GED certificate

Certification/Licensure:
  • Must have a valid fingerprint clearance card issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety OR submit a completed Affidavit at time of hire. Must complete fingerprint clearance card application within seven (7) days of hire date. Must present actual card within 90 days of applying for fingerprint clearance card. Fingerprint clearance cards must remain valid for the entire period of issuance and must be renewed prior to expiration.

What Valleywise Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom