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Medical Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL

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Medical Laboratory Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$12

$22

$53

How much do medical laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical laboratory assistant in Decatur, AL is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

How do you become a medical laboratory assistant?

To become a medical laboratory assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a post-secondary certificate or diploma program in medical laboratory assisting. Certification from a recognized body can improve job prospects, and on-the-job training is often provided to develop skills in laboratory procedures and equipment. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of safety protocols are essential in this role.

Do you need qualifications to be a medical laboratory assistant?

Yes, medical laboratory assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and many employers prefer or require post-secondary training or certification in laboratory procedures. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Certification programs are available to enhance job prospects and demonstrate competence.

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 popular job titles related to Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL? For Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Medical Laboratory Assistant job openings:
Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Laboratory Assistant job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,932 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Assistant PT (12679)

Cullman Regional Medical Center

Hartselle, AL • On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Cullman Regional Medical Center rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

916th of 1,059 rated hospitals

Job description

Medical Laboratory Assistant PT

Hartselle Emergency Department - Hartselle, AL 35640

Overview

Position Type PRN -.3 Job Shift Any Category Health Care

Description

Job Summary

The Laboratory Assistant processes clinical laboratory specimens and assists technical staff with laboratory procedures within their scope of training. This individual works under the direction of certified laboratory technicians.

Essential Functions

Technical:

  • Successfully perform all phases of laboratory testing: pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic
  • Working knowledge of electronic medical record (EMR) and laboratory information systems (LIS).
  • Working knowledge of specimen collection requirements and rejection criteria.
  • Perform specimen accessioning/processing including, sample labeling, centrifugation, pipetting, distribution, and storage.
  • Accession addon testing and distribute specimens appropriately.
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot preanalytical equipment.
  • Archive and dispose of lab specimens.
  • Process and ship reference lab samples and review pending orders for completion.
  • Perform waived and/or moderately complex assays per manufacturer instructions.
  • Evaluate patient results and perform delta checks prior to approval.
  • Process and distribute lab reports to appropriate individuals and institutions.
  • Inventory and receive supplies and reagents according to lab protocol.

QA/QC/Regulatory:

  • Report lab results within established turnaround times
  • Document critical values in the LIS and notify physician staff.
  • Correct patient results within the LIS and notify physician staff and management.
  • Follow Westgard rules and recognize shifts/trends occurring on Levy-Jennings charts.
  • Document out of range quality control values and take corrective action.
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities, examine existing processes/procedures, and look for ways to improve them.
  • Complete necessary documentation when specimen variance or adverse events occur.
  • Perform proficiency testing as required.
  • Adhere to all regulatory standards within the clinical laboratory.

Safety/Organizational/Productivity:

  • Follow universal precautions and safety procedures established by the lab/compliance departments.
  • Comply with clinical laboratory policy and procedures.
  • Participate in the introduction and evaluation of new supplies and equipment.
  • Train new staff as required.

Communication/Teamwork:

  • Maintain positive working relationships with fellow staff and clinic personnel.
  • Must be able to interact well with patients, employees, physicians, and management.
  • Answer questions from patients and provider staff regarding the clinical laboratory.
Qualifications

Qualifications:

  • Must have excellent communication skills, both oral and written
  • Must have excellent organizational skills to prioritize and manage tasks in a timely and effective manner.
  • Must be willing to adapt to a flexible schedule and work environment.
  • Act independently and accept responsibility for actions and performance.
  • Complete competency assessments and 12 hours of continuing education annually.

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