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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Microbiology Lab Assistant information

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$14

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$34

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Decatur, GA is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Microbiology Lab Assistant Do?

A microbiology lab assistant provides support for scientists and researchers in a microbiology lab where they study microbes, viruses, fungi, parasites, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms. In this career, you may work on sample collection, aid in the testing of cultures and samples, maintain a specimen record, and sterilize and clean equipment after testing. Some labs may also expect you to carry out other administrative duties. Your responsibilities as a microbiology lab assistant may also include recording data and maintaining records.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of microbiological techniques, laboratory safety protocols, and at least an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurate sample processing and teamwork. These competencies are vital for ensuring precise test results, maintaining lab safety, and supporting research or diagnostic objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by Microbiology Lab Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Microbiology Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterile techniques to avoid contamination, accurately following protocols for sample preparation, and managing multiple tasks during busy periods. To address these, it’s important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and communicate effectively with team members. Regularly reviewing standard operating procedures and participating in team meetings can also help ensure quality and efficiency in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab Assistant vs Microbiology Technician?

AspectMicrobiology Lab AssistantMicrobiology Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, healthcare settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, recording data
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, research, and educational labsCommonly employed in clinical and industrial microbiology labs

While both roles support microbiology labs, Microbiology Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support functions, whereas Microbiology Technicians perform more detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and industry but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Decatur, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 17% Temporary, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 25% Physical, and 75% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,489 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Medical Lab Scientist / Microbiology / Weekends

Medical Lab Scientist / Microbiology / Weekends

Emory Healthcare

Decatur, GA

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 207 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Emory Medical Laboratory's mission is to transform health and healing by providing high quality, cost-effective, innovative laboratory services which enhance patient health. We're seeking an experienced Medical Lab Scientist I / Medical Technologist I with a Microbiology background. 

Shift: 7am - 7:30pm, Friday - Sunday

Experience Needed: Plate reading experience 

Be inspired. Be rewarded. Belong. At Emory Healthcare.

At Emory Healthcare we fuel your professional journey with better benefits, valuable resources, ongoing mentorship and leadership programs for all types of jobs, and a supportive environment that enables you to reach new heights in your career and be what you want to be.

We provide:

  • Comprehensive health benefits that start day one
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance & Reimbursement Programs
  • Family-focused benefits
  • Wellness incentives
  • Ongoing mentorship and leadership programs
  • And more!

All levels of experience and education will be considered for this posting. 

Description
  • Performs various laboratory tests and procedures while adhering to standard operating procedures on patient specimens to assist in the diagnosis, study and treatment, or prevention of disease.
  • Upholds the values of the organization including providing and demonstrating exemplary customer service skills throughout the preanalytical, analytical and post analytical processes.
  • May supervise employees in a laboratory or laboratory section.
  • May perform tests including but not limited to standardized and semi-routine biological, chemical, hematological, immunological, immunohematological, microbiological, and serological tests in a research or clinical laboratory.
  • Performs preventive and advanced maintenance on laboratory instruments and calibrates equipment and instruments as required.
  • Operates laboratory equipment and troubleshoots equipment and instrument malfunctions.
  • Communicates with service representatives when necessary to correct malfunctions.
  • May serve as key operator for implementation of new equipment and procedures.
  • Prepares reagents as needed. Monitors and ensures adequate inventory supply.
  • May be responsible for ordering. Responsible for quality control.
  • Assists in gathering data to monitor quality improvement standards and in preparing reports.
  • Evaluates the validity of acceptable specimens and test results; compares them to previous results and other laboratory data.
  • Identifies critical values, confirms and reports following standard operating procedures.
  • In complex cases, evaluates all information and determines whether test results should be released, repeated, or referred to a pathologist.
  • Refers abnormal or unexpected results to the appropriate individual(s).
  • Maintains accurate and complete documentation of patient information, equipment, and test results to comply with regulations.
  • Documents corrective actions taken for out of range test values.
  • Performs required calculation and reports results by phone and/or computer.
  • Maintains clean, orderly and safe work area.
  • May serve on laboratory's safety committee; write and maintain safety and infection control policies and procedures, and ensure correct Safety Data Sheets are maintained.
  • Complies with hospital and laboratory safety and infection control policies and procedures to prevent exposure to infectious materials.
  • May monitor staff during safety compliance audits or drills.
  • Audits computer reports to ensure that scheduled tests have been completed.
  • Assists in gathering data to monitor quality improvement standards and in preparing reports.
  • Independently research and assist in development of new procedures; compile and evaluate data and perform statistical analyses.
  • May be responsible for section's data base files and/or assist in software testing.
  • May use server and network management skills to maintain consistent and uniform network and data communication.
  • Troubleshoots computer hardware related problems and oversees system backups.
  • May serve as access coordinator for the department including local applications.
  • Assists in writing, reviewing and revising departmental policies, procedures, and related forms in accordance with local, state, federal, and regulatory guidelines.
  • Assists with staff scheduling; provides input into staff evaluations.
  • Assists in assigning and prioritizing workload.
  • Educates staff and students by demonstrating procedures and assisting in orientation and continuing education activities.
  • May teach medical technology theory and techniques while providing guidance to lower level technologists; develop teaching plans and student assessment tools; prepare written examinations.
  • Coordinates instruction of employees and students for a laboratory section.
  • Attends educational in-services as appropriate.
  • Maintains certification as required.
  • Works with leader to formulate plan for professional development.
  • Participates in professional activities and organizations to maintain knowledge of current trends, practices, and developments.
  • May perform venipuncture or capillary puncture to obtain blood specimen.
  • Perform other related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology, or a chemical, physical or biological science.
  • Other bachelor's degree will be accepted if graduated from an accredited school and science and math coursework meet requirements of certifying agency. Bachelor's degree may be waived for a medical technologist who was ASCP certified in the years prior to the bachelor's degree requirement by ASCP and a HEW/HHS technologist certified by Health and Human Services.
  • Certified by one of the following accreditation agencies: MT (ASCP), MLS (ASCP), MT (AMT), MT (HHS or HEW), MT (AAB), generalist or categorical if applicable.
  • Two (2) years of experience required. Three (3) years preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock, Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation, Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.

Additional Details

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

Emory Healthcare is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please contact Emory Healthcare's Human Resources at careers@emoryhealthcare.org. Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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