1

Medical Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL

Showing results 21-40

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:
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 Lab Technician-Crestwood Medical Center-FT-2nd shift

Huntsville Hospital Health System

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Huntsville Hospital Health System rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 207 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

727th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Responsibilities
Performs routine and specialized moderate and high complexity laboratory tests on all types of blood and body fluid specimens under minimal supervision. Ensures accurate and reliable test results by adhering to a strict quality control program. Performs instrument function checks and preventive maintenance procedures according to departmental policies and procedures. Maintains records and statistical data according to regulatory requirements. Teaches new employees and students laboratory policies and procedures. Collects chain of custody urine drug screens as required. Assists as needed in all laboratory areas as required to maintain appropriate patient care.
Qualifications
Education:
- AS degree from an accredited college or university preferred. Degree must be in Medical Laboratory Science or one of the biological or chemical sciences. Laboratory training through an accredited laboratory school preferred. Education and training equivalent to an Associates degree in a laboratory science or medical laboratory technology. Education - 60 semester hours including either 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses (6 hours Chemistry, 6 hours Biology, and 12 hours in Chemistry, Biology or medical laboratory technology or any combination); AND Experience. Be a high school graduate or equivalent AND have successfully completed at least a 50 week official US military medical laboratory procedures course AND have held the military enlisted occupational specialty of Medical Laboratory Specialist (Laboratory Technician). Must provide documented evidence to perform waived testing
Experience:
One year experience is preferred. Training - either completion of an approved/accredited clinical laboratory or medical laboratory training program, which may include 60 semester hours specified above or three months of documented laboratory training in each specialty in which the individual performs high complexity testing. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills required along with moderate knowledge of medical terminology.
Licenses/Certificates:
Preferred certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician, MLT (ASCP), or Clinical Laboratory Technician, CLT (NCA), or equivalent and/or obtain certification within 18 months of hire. Certification preferred but not required.

What Huntsville Hospital Health System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom