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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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How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 supports microbiologists by preparing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and conducting basic laboratory tests. They help ensure experiments run smoothly by following strict protocols and keeping the lab organized and sterile. Their daily tasks may also include labeling specimens, recording data, and disposing of biohazardous materials properly. This role is essential for maintaining safety and accuracy in microbiological research and testing environments.

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 are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA?

For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,489 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Medical Lab Scientist / Cellular Therapy

Emory Healthcare

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 217 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 891 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 and certified Medical Lab Scientist II / Medical Technologist II with clinical lab experience in any area of the laboratory. 

Shift: 8am - 4:30pm, with rotations on-call

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:

  • Sign-On Bonus incentives (when applicable)
  • 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

An experienced medical lab scientist (MLS II) operates all laboratory equipment, conducts complex tests, interprets results, ensures quality control procedures are followed for accurate diagnoses. A MLS II analyzes blood, tissue, and body fluids to detect, diagnose, and treat diseases. Operates complex, automated equipment to perform tests in fields like microbiology and chemistry, providing 70% of the objective data providers use for patient treatment decisions. Medical laboratory scientists are essential for diagnosing conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and infectious diseases.

Primary duties and responsibilities

  • Testing Samples: Analyzing blood, urine, spinal fluid, and tissue for pathogens, chemical abnormalities, or disease markers. Perform Specimen Analysis, laboratory tests to identify abnormal cells, bacteria, or chemical imbalances in the body.
  • Operating Technology: Using sophisticated laboratory instruments, such as automated analyzers and microscopes.
  • Quality Control: Ensuring test accuracy by calibrating equipment and validating results. Run routine controls guarantee the validity and reliability of all medical testing.
  • Data Interpretation: Reviewing findings to ensure validity and communicating results to physicians. Analyze test results, ensure accuracy, and relay critical data to doctors.
  • Specialized Areas: Working in departments like blood banking (transfusion services), hematology, immunology, and molecular diagnostics.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Calibrate, troubleshoot, and operate sophisticated laboratory machinery.
  • Knowledge:

  • Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of laboratory instruments, common and complex diagnostic tests.
  • May be a key operator, has more responsibility and training on a particular analyzer or instrument.
  • Has a solid understanding of laboratory safety, quality control, and regulatory standards. 
  • Understands quality systems and key performance monitoring and may participate in quality improvement projects.
  • Monitors accuracy and precision of laboratory testing.
  • Documents corrective actions taken for out-of-range test values.
  • Evaluates validity of acceptable specimens and test results; compares them to previous results and other laboratory data.
  • Refers abnormal or unexpected results to the appropriate individual(s).
  • Performs maintenance and troubleshooting procedures
  • Complexity:

  • Able to manage more complex tasks, such as performing specialized tests, processing complex samples, and identifying abnormalities.
  • Increasingly entrusted with more technical responsibilities.
  • May assist in writing, reviewing, and revising procedures.
  • May assist with assay and instrument validation.
  • Maintains accurate and complete documentation of patient information, equipment, and test results to comply with regulations.
  • Identifies critical values, confirms and reports following standard operating procedures.
  • Autonomy:

  • Autonomous in day-to-day work; can independently handle complicated cases.
  • Provides input on procedure improvements and operational changes.
  • Interaction:

  • Interacts more regularly with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, to discuss test results and assist in diagnostics.
  • Educates staff and students by demonstrating procedures, assisting in orientation, and continuing education activities.
  • May teach medical laboratory science techniques and/or theory while providing guidance to lower-level technologists and students; develop teaching plans and student assessment tools; prepare written examinations.
  • Travel: None

    Work Type: Onsite 100% of time

    Minimum Required Qualifications:

    • Education:
      • Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology, or a chemical, physical, or biological science.
      • Other bachelor's degrees will be accepted if graduated from an accredited school and science and math coursework meets requirements of certifying agency.
      • Bachelor's degree may be waived for a medical technologist who was certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP BOC) in the years prior to the bachelor's degree requirement by ASCP and/or a HEW/HHS technologist certified by Health and Human Services (formerly Health Education and Welfare).
    • Experience:
      • months experience required. Promotion criteria review and approval required.
    • Certification:
      • Certified by one of the following accreditation agencies: MT (ASCP), MLS (ASCP), MT (American Medical Technologists, AMT), MT (HHS or HEW), MT (American Association of Bioanalysts, AAB), generalist or categorical if applicable.
    • Preferred Experience:
      • 2 years of experience preferred.

    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium Max 25lbs): up to 25 lbs., 0-33% of the workday (occasionally) Lifting 25 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 environmental 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, and 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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