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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Preparing microbiology specimens for cultures and gram stains, including inoculation of ... the Medical Lab Assistant position within 6 months. Licensure Requirement: Employee must have a ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Medical Lab Assistant Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Fort Sanders Regional Overview ... Preparing microbiology specimens for cultures and gram stains, including inoculation of ...

Dairiconcepts, L.P.

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN

$18.72 - $22/hr

Record AM & PM temperatures for multiple incubators and refrigerators. * Assist certified analysts ... Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.72 - $22/hr

Record AM & PM temperatures for multiple incubators and refrigerators. * Assist certified analysts ... Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a ...

Guida's Dairy

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.72 - $22/hr

Record AM & PM temperatures for multiple incubators and refrigerators. * Assist certified analysts ... Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a ...

Dairy Farmers of America

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN

$18.72 - $22/hr

Record AM & PM temperatures for multiple incubators and refrigerators. * Assist certified analysts ... Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a ...

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.72 - $22/hr

Record AM & PM temperatures for multiple incubators and refrigerators. * Assist certified analysts ... Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview Medical Technologist, Microbiology/Blood Bank, $2,000-$5,000 Sign-on Bonus $2,000 Sign-on ... The Medical Technologist performs high complexity, routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Medical Technologist, Microbiology/Blood Bank, $2,000-$5,000 Sign-on Bonus $2,000 Sign-on Bonus for ... The Medical Technologist performs high complexity, routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN

... lab, comprehensive breast health, emergency, and critical care. It's consistently ranked among ... Laboratory Assistants, Technical Specialists, Medical Technologist/Technicians, Point of Care ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... lab, comprehensive breast health, emergency, and critical care. It's consistently ranked among ... Laboratory Assistants, Technical Specialists, Medical Technologist/Technicians, Point of Care ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Medical Technologist, Microbiology $2,000 Sign-on Bonus for New Grads $5,000 Sign-on Bonus for ... The Medical Technologist performs high complexity, routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview Medical Technologist, Microbiology $2,000 Sign-on Bonus for New Grads $5,000 Sign-on Bonus ... The Medical Technologist performs high complexity, routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview Medical Technologist, Microbiology $2,000 Sign-on Bonus for New Grads $5,000 Sign-on Bonus ... The Medical Technologist performs high complexity, routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for ...

Covenant Health

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Knoxville, TN

Medical Technologist, Microbiology $2,000 Sign-on Bonus for New Grads $5,000 Sign-on Bonus for ... The Medical Technologist performs high complexity, routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for ...

All JobsMicrobiology Lab JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Microbiology Lab Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$14

$21

$33

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:
Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,544 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Covenant Health

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview
Medical Lab Assistant
Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift
Fort Sanders Regional Overview:
Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical expertise with advanced medical technology to deliver exceptional care. As a Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center, we provide leading-edge treatment for stroke recovery. Our facility also offers specialized services in bariatric surgery, robotic surgery, minimally invasive spine procedures, and advanced orthopedic care.
Fort Sanders Regional is part of Covenant Health, East Tennessee's largest nonprofit health system and a Becker's "Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare." Covenant Health includes nine hospitals and nearly 150 service locations, offering employees a comprehensive benefits package with tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, certification bonuses, and leadership development programs.
Position Summary:
The Medical Laboratory Assistant performs the pre-analytical and preparatory portion of the testing process for routine and specialized clinical Lab tests for use in diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians. The individual will perform only those processes that s/he has been trained and found competent in performing. Must also be able to perform the duties of a Sr. Laboratory Assistant.
Responsibilities
  • Performs preparatory functions necessary to complete routine and high complexity tests that the individual has been trained in. Functions include:
    • Centrifuging; pouring off blood, body fluid, and urine specimens; preparing specimens for testing; and archiving specimens
    • Checking applicable specimens for clots if needed prior to proceeding for testing
    • Performing pipetting techniques for appropriate specimen preparations
    • Preparing peripheral blood smears for staining for microscopic examination
    • Staining peripheral blood smears by automated method
    • Loading primary bar-coded clinical specimens on any trained analyzer
    • Preparing microbiology specimens for cultures and gram stains, including inoculation of microbiology culture plates from primary clinical specimens, slide preparation and staining by automated method
    • Preparing specimens for KOH examinations
    • Preparing specimens for GMS stains for pathology and track according to protocol
    • Preparing and loading blood culture specimens into appropriate incubators
    • Preparing specimens for PCR testing
    • Preparing viral culture specimens for testing by appropriate reference laboratory, and completing required regulatory documentation
    • Preparing 24-hour urine containers with preservatives
    • Receiving and tagging new reagent inventory, and sorting by lot number to separate current versus new reagent lot numbers
    • Performing required quality checks of eye wash and emergency shower stations
  • Follows the Laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, and preparatory steps.
  • Documents all corrective actions taken when the test process deviates from the Laboratory's established performance specifications. Does not submit patient specimens for testing until all corrective action has been taken.
  • Identifies problems that may adversely affect a test result and either corrects or notifies a licensed Laboratory employee to assist.
  • Utilizes the LIS in patient accessioning, and monitors incomplete and collection lists. Follows up by locating specimens and taking appropriate next steps, including loading specimens, aliquoting, or notifying a MLT/MT of issues.
  • Operates, maintains and troubleshoots applicable Laboratory equipment, e.g. centrifuges, stainers, etc, as trained to use.
  • Checks communication boards at least weekly.
  • Plans work to insure maximum productivity with minimum amount of 'carry over' work, while keeping overtime to a minimum. Responsible for communicating to the next shift and other appropriate staff needed information about patient samples or equipment performance.
  • Acts as resource person for phlebotomy if trained appropriately, including outpatients.
  • Maintains and disinfects work area.
  • Assists with coverage of the pneumatic tube system, processing and distributing specimens.
  • Handles biohazard wastes according to policy.
  • Performs any job-related duties assigned by competent authority. Helps other departments as qualifications and needs permit.
  • Assists in the orientation and training of new and existing employees.
  • Responsible for care, maintenance, trouble-shooting and notification of Manager when equipment is in need of repair or replacement (i.e. stainers, centrifuges, printers, fax/copy machines, etc.).
  • Performs pipette and glassware cleanings, timer verifications, centrifuge rpms, and thermometer verifications, and pipette verifications.
  • Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports.
  • Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
  • Local travel may be required.

Qualifications
Minimum Education:
None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED. Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.
Minimum Experience:
Basic computer skills, medical terminology, registration and phlebotomy skills or equivalent combination of clinical/clerical skills. Upon hire, must successfully complete a Covenant Health Training Program specific for the Medical Lab Assistant position within 6 months.
Licensure Requirement:
Employee must have a valid Tennessee driver's license Class D and state mandated minimum insurance coverage. Driving record must meet Covenant Health minimum standards at the date of hire and throughout employment tenure.

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